The 2014 Nissan LEAF is a fully electric hatchback that emerged as a pioneer in the EV market. It's available in SV, S, and SL trims. Known for its affordability and practicality as an electric car, the LEAF offered a range of around 84 miles on a full charge. New, its price ranged from approximately $29,000 to $35,000. Its popularity stemmed from being an early, relatively inexpensive EV option making electric car ownership accessible.
The Good
The 2014 Nissan LEAF offers silent, smooth, and instant torque providing surprisingly peppy acceleration around town. Practically, it's exceptionally efficient and requires no gasoline, saving money on fuel. Emotionally, it appeals to eco-conscious buyers. It offers a comfortable ride and user-friendly interior design. While range is limited, it’s reliable within those boundaries.
The Bad
The 2014 Nissan LEAF's primary weakness is its limited range compared to newer EVs. Battery degradation is a concern, especially in warmer climates, significantly impacting range over time. Watch out for reduced battery capacity and ensure the car's battery has been well-maintained. The styling isn't universally admired, and the interior materials can feel basic.
2014 Nissan LEAF: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Single electric motor.
- Horsepower: 107 hp
- Fuel Economy: Rated at 126 city/101 highway/114 combined MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent). This equates to approximately 29 kWh/100 miles.
- 0-60 Times: Around 10 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Standard features include keyless entry, push-button start, Bluetooth connectivity, a basic audio system, and cloth seats.
- SV: Adds features like a navigation system, a rearview camera, a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, and recycled cloth seat trim.
- SL: Includes leather seats, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, automatic headlights, and a solar panel spoiler to help power accessories.
- S: Standard features include keyless entry, push-button start, Bluetooth connectivity, a basic audio system, and cloth seats.
- Battery: 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
- Charging:
- Level 1 (120V): Around 20 hours for a full charge.
- Level 2 (240V): Around 4-5 hours for a full charge.
- DC Fast Charging (CHAdeMO): Approximately 30 minutes to charge to 80% capacity.
2014 Nissan LEAF Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2014 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | LEAF |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | AGUASCALIENTES CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Specifications
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2014 Nissan LEAF Have?
The most frequently reported problem with the 2014 Nissan LEAF is battery degradation, particularly in hotter climates. Owners report significant loss of range over time, especially after several years of use. This is a known weakness of early LEAF models. Some owners have also reported issues with the charging system, including problems with the onboard charger failing or being slow. Nissan has issued recalls for various LEAF models, including potential issues with the airbag system and braking system. Check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recall repairs. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the battery's lifespan. While some batteries hold up well, others degrade significantly, requiring eventual replacement, which can be costly. Another potential issue is the 12V battery, which can fail prematurely, leading to starting problems. Routine maintenance and proper charging habits can help mitigate some of these issues, but battery degradation remains the biggest long-term reliability concern for the 2014 LEAF.
How long will the 2014 Nissan LEAF last?
With good maintenance, a 2014 Nissan LEAF can potentially last 10-12 years or reach 150,000 miles, but the lifespan is heavily dependent on battery condition. Many original batteries will have degraded significantly by this point. Owners who regularly charge to 100% and frequently use DC fast charging tend to experience faster battery degradation. Conversely, owners who limit charging to 80% and primarily use Level 2 charging can extend battery life. Long-term durability is also affected by climate; hotter climates accelerate battery degradation. Rust isn't a common issue, but suspension components and other wear items may require replacement over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2014 Nissan LEAF includes several built-in tech and safety features. The base 'S' trim offers standard features like Bluetooth connectivity, a basic audio system, and keyless entry. Stepping up to the 'SV' trim adds a navigation system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, a rearview camera, and Nissan's Carwings telematics system (for remote battery monitoring and charging). The top-tier 'SL' trim includes leather seats and automatic headlights. Entertainment features are centered around the infotainment system, which provides access to music streaming and vehicle information. Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles, with the rearview camera being the most notable. Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Optional features were mainly limited to trim levels, with no significant standalone tech or safety options available. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) give the 2014 LEAF an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the 2014 LEAF a "Good" rating in several crash tests, making it a reasonably safe vehicle for its class.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Glacier White
Super Black
Gun Metallic
Cayenne Red
Deep Blue Pearl
Brilliant Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Black Cloth
Gray Cloth
2014 Nissan LEAF Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2014 Nissan LEAF ranged from approximately $29,000 to $35,000, depending on the trim level. Today, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on condition, mileage, and battery health. The LEAF has experienced significant depreciation due to battery degradation concerns and the availability of newer EVs with longer ranges. Resale value is heavily influenced by the remaining battery capacity. A LEAF with a healthy battery will command a higher price than one with significant degradation. Location also matters, as demand for EVs can vary regionally.
2014 Nissan LEAF Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for the 2014 Nissan LEAF are generally comparable to other compact cars. Fuel costs are significantly lower than gasoline cars, as it's electric. Maintenance is also typically lower due to fewer moving parts. However, potential battery replacement is a major expense. Repair costs can be moderate, but specialized EV repairs may be more expensive. Long-term ownership costs are economical if the battery remains healthy; otherwise, a replacement can make it costly. Overall, it's usually more economical than a comparable gasoline vehicle.
2014 Nissan LEAF Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Electric
Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
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2014 Nissan LEAF Safety Rating
NHTSA
2014 Nissan LEAF Insurance
Insurance for a 2014 Nissan LEAF is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2014 Nissan LEAF Compare to Other Hatchback?
The 2014 Nissan LEAF competed with other early EVs like the Ford Focus Electric, Chevrolet Volt (though a plug-in hybrid), and Mitsubishi i-MiEV. Compared to the Focus Electric, the LEAF generally offered slightly better range and a more spacious interior. The Volt provided a longer overall range thanks to its gasoline range extender but at a higher price. The i-MiEV was smaller and more affordable but had a significantly shorter range and less refined driving experience. In terms of reliability, the LEAF's battery degradation is a major concern, something the Volt partially mitigates. Feature-wise, the LEAF was competitive for its time. Given the age and battery concerns, recommending similar alternatives today would lean towards newer used EVs with longer ranges and better battery technology, such as a used Chevrolet Bolt or BMW i3. These alternatives offer improved range and, in some cases, more advanced features while remaining relatively affordable in the used market. If budget is a primary concern and short trips are the norm, a well-maintained 2014 LEAF can still be a viable option, but its limitations need to be carefully considered against newer, more capable EVs.
Ranks #1064 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1064 | 2014 Nissan LEAF | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Nissan LEAF a Good Hatchback?
The 2014 Nissan LEAF is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking an inexpensive, short-range EV for commuting or city driving. It's worth buying *used* if the battery has been well-maintained and still offers acceptable range for your needs. A thorough battery health check is essential before purchasing. The SV and SL trims offer more features than the base S trim, making them more desirable. However, even with the better trims, manage expectations concerning range and technology compared to newer electric vehicles. If longer range is a must, consider alternatives, but if you understand its limitations and find one with a healthy battery at a good price, the 2014 LEAF can still be a practical choice.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.