The Leaf is built on a dedicated platform. A 107 hp permanent magnet AC motor manufactured by Nissan revs up to 16000 rpm to drive the front wheels through a single speed trans axle. The fuel tank is a 24 kwh lithium ion battery pack supplied by a joint venture between Nissan and NEC. The Leaf's whimsical appearance is the most obvious distinction from the belt and suspenders Volt. The Versa sized exterior flaunts features that have traditionally been a tough sell to Americans. The Leaf's basic proportions suggest mini - minivan. There's a hatch in back and a charge port lid where we're used to seeing a grille. The alligator eye headlamps guide air smoothly around the mirrors, according to Nissan. The Leaf's interior disposition is light and lively one set of beige and black furnishings goes with all five available exterior colors. Some of the trim is made of recycled beverage containers.

The seats and steering wheel are heated to provide comfort more efficiently than warming the whole cabin. Navigation, Bluetooth and a USB port are standard. Spending an extra $940 for the SL model adds a backup camera, foglamps, automatic headlamps, and a roof mounted solar panel to recharge the lead acid battery. Tall, cloth upholstered front seats would provide a commanding view of your sorroundings were it not for a das that sweeps upward in the corners, a rising beltline and thick C pillars. The back seats carry three adults. There's ample head, legs and footroom, but the bottom cushions are too short to provide adequate thigh support. The rear backrest folds to increase cargo space, although Home Depot hauls are frustrated by a fixed partition containing some of the battery modules. A touch of power button cues cordial audio and visual greetings without a hint of driveline noise or vibration. To go, yo move a mouselike controller to the left, then in a direction opposite the desired travel. A second rearward nudge engages an energy saving ECo mode.