Nissan has revealed the MY22 version of its pioneering all-electric model, the Leaf small hatchback, which is due in Australian showrooms in the second half of this year.
While not a facelift, the MY22 update does bring the Leaf into line with Nissan’s soon-to-be-launched line-up of next-generation models, including the Qashqai, X-Trail and Pathfinder SUVs and the Z sports car.
How so? Well, it’s all down to the minor but important details, namely the Nissan badging on the bonnet, wheels, tailgate and steering wheel. Yep, the Japanese brand has a redesigned logo, and it’s now made its way onto the Leaf.
But there’s more to the MY22 Leaf than just that, as it also introduces new sets of 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels, which look far more modern than the previous items the second-generation model had.
Trainspotters will also notice the changes to Nissan’s signature V-motion ‘grille’, with the V-shaped bar now finished in gloss black instead of chrome, while the insert has been completely darkened.
And finally, two fresh paintwork options have become available with the MY22 Leaf, including Universal Blue and Magnetic Blue. According to Nissan, the former has “a rich and mature tone”, while the latter “brings an enhanced sense of vibrancy”.
With MY22 pricing and full specification details yet to be released by Nissan Australia, we’ll have to wait to see if price rises are on the horizon for the local Leaf line-up, which currently stretches from $49,990 plus on-road costs for the entry-level offering to $60,490 for the flagship e+.
For reference, the 110kW/320Nm ‘regular’ Leaf comes with a 40kWh lithium-ion battery that provides 315km of NEDC-certified driving range, while the 160kW/340Nm e+ has a 62kWh unit that lasts 450km between charges.
Stay tuned for more details about the upgraded Hyundai Ioniq Electric, Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 rival as they come to hand.
Keyword: Turning over a new Leaf? 2022 Nissan Leaf update introduces fresh design elements for pioneering Hyundai Ioniq Electric, Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 rival