Which year model of used Nissan Leaf EV is the best value?
The Leaf has been outpaced by other EVs, but that means you can get a great car at a great price.
We compare average used cost of each year model of Leaf vs. what they originally cost when new.
The Nissan Leaf is a compact five-door hatchback battery electric vehicle (BEV), introduced in Japan and the United States in December 2010. Thanks to the Nissan Leaf’s innovative electric motor system, the Leaf has won numerous awards including the 2010 Green Car Vision Award, the 2011 European Car of the Year, the 2011 World Car of the Year, and the 2011–2012 Car of the Year Japan. But with money in mind, should you buy a Leaf new or used? It may surprise you, but used models can actually be a great deal – there are several used options available which have a low mileage and many of the same features as the 2020 Leaf, all for up to 26% less than the 2020 MSRP listing price.
If you’re looking to purchase a used Leaf, here are some things to know:
FIND NEARLY-NEW NISSAN LEAFS IN YOUR AREA
Every vehicle has a “sweet spot” where it’s cost-to-reliability ratio is best. See how much you can save buying nearly new vs. new with CoPilot Compare. With cars 5 years or younger, low mileage, and great CPO options, you can get a like-new car at a significant discount vs. MSRP.
How much can you save buying a used Leaf?
If you’re looking to compare the prices of a used Leaf versus its new model, here’s a quick and easy-to-read table that should give you some guidance:
Quick Look: The 2020 Leaf Price & Features
A 2020 Leaf will set you back about $39,449. When it comes to special features, it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone integration, as well as an auxiliary audio input and Bluetooth connectivity for additional integration options. The Leaf’s lane departure warning and blind spot monitor help ensure safety, and its heated front seats and steering wheel keep you comfortable. For the easiest way to compare the 2020 against older models, check out CoPilot Compare.
CPOs ARE BETTER THAN BUYING NEW
If you’re looking for new cars, a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) car might help you buy a like-new car at a significant discount vs. MSRP. Here’s why CPOs are better than buying new.
2017 Leaf: Used vs. New
2017 Leaf: Average Used Listing Price and Mileage
The 2017 has an average price of $11,667 and an average MSRP of $33,624, with an average mileage of 30,427. That means you’ll save around $21,958 – or 65% – by buying used. Perhaps surprisingly, the 2017 Leaf comes with many of the same features you’ll find in the 2020 model, though does not include Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Finally, the 2017 has certified pre-owned availability.
Is buying a used 2017 Leaf a good deal?
Definitely. The 2017 Leaf has many of the same features as the 2020, along with the Leaf’s award-winning electric engine. Search all the 2017 Leaf near you and get automatic price alerts whenever prices on this model drop.
Newer features the 2017 Leaf lacks:
The 2017 Nissan Leaf is missing several features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, remote engine start, and blind spot monitoring.
2017 vs. 2018 Models: Which is the better value?
We recommend the 2017 Leaf – while they both have many of the same features, the price difference is fairly significant.
2018 Leaf Used vs. New: Price and Feature Comparison
2018 Leaf: Average Used Listing Price and Mileage
The 2018 Leaf has an average price of $19,032 and an average MSRP of $34,636, which means you’ll save about $15,604, or 45%. Its average mileage is about 19,397, and the 2018 Leaf shares the same features as the 2020 model, with the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and certified pre-owned availability.
Is buying a used 2018 Leaf a good deal?
Newer features the 2018 Leaf lacks:
The 2018 Nissan Leaf has all of the same features as the 2020 Leaf.
2018 vs. 2019 Models: Which is the better value?
While both are great deals, we recommend buying the 2018 in order to get the right balance of savings and efficiency. Though if you do go for the 2019, you’ll see the advantage of purchasing nearly-new cars instead of new cars. In the end, both models have the same features, so you can’t really go wrong either way.
BE THE FIRST TO KNOW ABOUT NEW LISTINGS
The average car is on the lot for 1-2 weeks, but the best deals usually get snapped up under 48 hours. Download the CoPilot app to be immediately notified when a saved vehicle drops in price or when a great new Leaf listing goes up for sale.
2019 Leaf Used vs. New: Price and Feature Comparison
Leaf: Average Used Listing Price and Mileage
The 2019 model has an average price of $22,776 and an average MSRP of $36,002: a savings of $13,226, or 37%. It also has an average mileage of 10,242. The 2019 Leaf also has many of the same features as the 2020. The 2019 also has certified pre-owned availability, so you can shop safe.
2019 vs. buying new: Which is the better value?
When you buy a 2019 model, you’re basically buying new – without the new price tag. 2020 models are fine, but we believe a 2019 is a better option in terms of value and features. (In fact, it even has Bluetooth, unlike the 2020.)
Newer features the Leaf lacks:
None: they have all of the same features.
Is buying a used 2019 Leaf a good deal?
While the 2017 is your best bet, you can’t go wrong with the 2019. To search all of the dealerships and listings in your area for a used Leaf, try the CoPilot app.
DOWNLOAD THE APP
The CoPilot app is the smartest way to buy a car. Search all listings in your area, get notified about deals, new listings, and price drops, or chat with one of our copilots for some hands-on advice.
Which year model of Leaf is best to buy used vs. new?
Still not sure which Leaf is the best deal? We would recommend the 2017 model: You’ll be getting a newer edition with a reasonable amount of miles on the odometer, while still getting a 24% discount off MSRP. And if you want even more guidance, CoPilot Compare lets you compare prices, features, CPO offers, and more between new and used year models.
