Nissan Leaf
- Mpge: 106 city/92 highway
Nissan offers the Leaf in two models: the base model SV at $35,200 and the SL at $37,250. Nissan's energy-efficient cars qualify for a federal tax credit of $7,500.
The Leaf has many standard features -- heated seats, heated exterior mirrors and a heated steering wheel. The 80-kilowatt motor is powered by a 24-kilowatt lithium-ion battery system, hitting a top speed of 90 mph.
The higher level SL comes with some big benefits. For an extra $2,050, you get a standard quick-charge port, which will charge the car in around 30 minutes at commercial charging stations. The standard 120-volt trickle charger will take 20 hours for a full charge. With the 240-volt charging station, you'll get a full charge in seven hours, according to Nissan.
The EPA says you'll go 73 miles on a full change and estimates an annual "fuel" cost of $600 to charge up this vehicle.