2016 Nissan LEAF

Serving Hilton Head, Hardeeville, Bluffton SC

Nissan must be doing something right with the all-electric LEAF, judging by the experience of over 185,000 owners worldwide. This electric automobile first appeared in 2010, achieving a top speed of 103 mph. Since then, Nissan has continued to improve the LEAF, adding luxuries like heated front and rear seats and leather upholstery.

In 2013, charging time was improved almost 50 percent. The 2016 model can be quick-charged to 80% in about 30 minutes and the driving range has increased from 87 to 104 miles with an optional 30-kilowatt-hour battery pack (standard on the SV and SL). Best of all, at today's prices, the car costs less than it did in 2012.

Performance

The vehicle operates quietly and handles well in city driving. The 107-horsepower electric motor has good acceleration in town and adequate pickup for highway driving. Drivers have commented on the easy steering and responsive brakes, along with good road grip and steadiness around curves.

Interior/Exterior

The interior this year is black with a light gray option for the SV. Heated front bucket seats are standard in all models and the SL has leather upholstery. Adjustable front seats, power windows and push-button start are all standard features. There are also three new body colors: Coulis Red, Deep Blue Pearl and Forged Bronze. The SV includes 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

Features

The front dash has a heads-up control center and the color LCD display is located in the center of the front console. A trip computer and rear-view monitor are standard features on all models. The basic sound system includes AM/FM/CD with MP3/WMA and there are multi-speaker upgrades available on the SV and SL models.

The standard NissanConnect includes mobile apps and a 5-inch color display. Enjoy Bluetooth® capability for hands-free phone, text messaging and streaming audio, while keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road! The SV/SL version includes navigation with voice recognition and a 7-inch color screen, as well as the capability for SiriusXM. The EV telematics system, standard on the SV/SL, allows remote contact with the vehicle.

Safety

This vehicle is well-equipped for safety with automatic halogen headlights and a rear-view monitor. The supplemental front airbags are another safety feature, along with side-impact and roof-mounted airbags. There is an adjustable child seat anchor and child-proof rear door locks. A 36-month roadside assistance package is standard.

Excellent traction and an anti-lock braking system make this vehicle not just a pleasure to drive, but also safe to drive. The energy-absorbing steering column and side door guard beams, combined with front and rear crumple zones, are designed to protect the driver and passengers in case of an accident.

Take the 2016 LEAF for a spin at Hilton Head Nissan today! Come and experience the easy handling and acceleration for yourself. There are many financing options available and we will be glad to help you drive away with your own brand new car.