Hybrids

2011 Nissan Leaf SV

Family Friendliness: 7.1

Recommended: Not Yet Driven

Specifications apply to all models.

What it Is: A five-passenger pure-electric vehicle.
Who it's For: City-bound families who value environmental friendliness.
What's Hot: Pure electric means you'll never buy gas.
What's Not:Range limited to about 100 miles.
Family Friendly Options: Bluetooth, navigation, USB input
How It Got Its Score: The Nissan Leaf offers five passenger seating and decent cargo space, and of course its fuel economy is otherworldly. However, its also expensive, even after $7,500 in federal tax breaks.

The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric five-door hatchback that already has a cult following. Since it's all-electric, the Leaf will never need to stop for gas. This is in stark contrast to hybrids like the Toyota Prius, or extended-range electric vehicles like the 2011 Chevrolet Volt. This small hatchback also seats five, and offers up decent cargo space, too. Most recently, it got Good crash test ratings from the IIHS on all tests, and it also comes with all the safety equipment that we expect from a modern car. However, like the Volt, the Leaf is on the expensive side. Even with the federal $7,500 tax credit, the Leaf will cost you more than $26,000, and that's a lot of money for a car that can only go 100 miles on a charge.

Comparisons between the Leaf and the Chevy Volt are inevitable. On one hand, the Volt is somewhat more practical since it offers a much greater range thanks to its gasoline engine. On the other, the Nissan Leaf offers more cargo room and the ability to carry an extra passenger. Those two advantages, coupled with its lower price, give the Leaf an edge in Family Friendliness.

Note: The mileage estimates are a miles-per-gallon equivalent established for comparison purposes by the EPA. The Leaf does not use gasoline.

Specifications Price MSRP $32,780 Destination $850 Other Models (Base Price) SL ($34,570) Engine Type Electric Horsepower 107 hp Torque 207 lb.-ft. Fuel Electric Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Transmission Continuously Variable Fuel Economy EPA City 106 mpg EPA Highway 92 mpg EPA Combined 99 mpg Utility Vehicle Type Compact Family Friendliness 7.1 Doors Five Seat Rows Two Passengers Five LATCH Positions Two Cargo Space 14.5 cu. ft. IIHS Front Good IIHS Side Good IIHS Rear Good Stability Control Standard Traction Control Standard Brake Assist Standard Side Airbags Thorax and Curtain Collision Avoidance Not Available Active Cruise Control Not Available

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