Your Guide to the Nissan Leaf 80kW Acenta 24kWh 5dr Auto

What is the Nissan Leaf 80kW Acenta 24kWh?

The Nissan Leaf 80kW Acenta 24kWh 5dr Auto is a fully electric vehicle from Nissan's first-generation Leaf lineup. The model designation breaks down into key specifications: 80kW refers to the motor power (equivalent to about 107 horsepower), Acenta denotes the mid-range trim level, 24kWh indicates the battery capacity, and 5dr Auto signifies it's a five-door hatchback with automatic transmission.

As one of the earliest mass-produced electric vehicles, this Nissan Leaf variant helped establish the foundation for today's expanding EV market. The Acenta trim strikes a balance between affordability and features, offering more amenities than the entry-level model while maintaining a reasonable price point. The 24kWh battery pack was the standard offering in early Leaf models, providing sufficient range for urban commuting while keeping the vehicle's weight and cost manageable.

Performance and Range Specifications

The 80kW electric motor in this Nissan Leaf delivers instant torque, a characteristic advantage of electric vehicles. This provides responsive acceleration, particularly from a standstill, making it well-suited for city driving. The single-speed automatic transmission offers smooth, uninterrupted power delivery without the gear changes associated with conventional vehicles.

Range is a critical consideration for any electric vehicle. The 24kWh lithium-ion battery pack typically provides approximately 70-90 miles (112-144 km) of real-world driving range on a full charge. This range varies based on driving conditions, temperature, and usage of climate control systems. The vehicle supports standard charging through a household outlet, which takes approximately 8 hours for a full charge, while rapid charging options can replenish about 80% of the battery in roughly 30 minutes at compatible charging stations.

Provider Comparison: Nissan Leaf vs. Competitors

When comparing the Nissan Leaf 80kW Acenta to other electric vehicles of its generation, several factors stand out. The table below highlights how it measures against key competitors:

The Nissan Leaf Acenta offers a balanced package with its user-friendly interface and established charging infrastructure. The BMW i3 provides a more premium experience with innovative materials but at a higher price point. The Volkswagen e-Golf appeals to those who prefer traditional styling and familiar driving dynamics, while the Renault Zoe stands out with its flexible charging system and competitive range.

Benefits and Drawbacks of the 80kW Acenta

The Nissan Leaf 80kW Acenta 24kWh offers several advantages that make it an appealing option in the electric vehicle market. Zero emissions driving represents the most obvious benefit, significantly reducing your carbon footprint compared to conventional vehicles. Lower running costs are another major advantage, with electricity generally costing less per mile than petrol or diesel. The vehicle also benefits from reduced maintenance requirements due to fewer moving parts in the electric drivetrain.

However, potential buyers should consider certain limitations. The 70-90 mile range may prove insufficient for those who regularly undertake longer journeys without charging opportunities. Charging infrastructure, while improving, was still developing when this model was current, potentially limiting practicality in some areas. Additionally, the battery degradation over time is a consideration, as the 24kWh pack may lose capacity with age and usage, gradually reducing the vehicle's range. Energy Saving Trust data suggests most early Leaf models retain 80-85% of their original capacity after 5 years of typical use.

Ownership Cost Considerations

Understanding the total cost of ownership helps put the value proposition of the Nissan Leaf 80kW Acenta in perspective. The initial purchase price for pre-owned models varies based on age, condition, and battery health. Typically, these vehicles can be acquired for significantly less than their original retail price due to depreciation and evolving EV technology.

Running costs represent a major advantage. Charging the 24kWh battery from empty to full costs approximately £3-£4 at average domestic electricity rates, translating to roughly 4-5 pence per mile – substantially lower than fossil fuel alternatives. Maintenance expenses are generally reduced with no oil changes required and less wear on braking systems thanks to regenerative braking. Insurance costs are comparable to conventional vehicles of similar value, while many public charging networks offer various payment plans for regular users. When considering battery longevity, Nissan originally provided an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty against capacity loss below 9 bars (approximately 70% of original capacity), offering some reassurance regarding the most expensive component.

Conclusion

The Nissan Leaf 80kW Acenta 24kWh 5dr Auto marked an important step in the evolution of mainstream electric vehicles. While its range limitations and early-generation technology may not match today's more advanced EVs, it continues to offer an accessible entry point into electric mobility with practical benefits for urban and suburban driving. For environmentally conscious drivers with predictable commuting patterns and charging access, this pioneering electric hatchback delivers a compelling combination of zero-emission driving, reduced running costs, and proven reliability. As the electric vehicle market continues to mature, these earlier models represent increasingly cost-effective options for those looking to transition away from conventional fuels without the premium price of newer alternatives.

Citations

• https://www.nissan.com
• https://www.bmw.com
• https://www.vw.com
• https://www.renault.com
• https://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
• https://www.zap-map.com
• https://www.nissan.co.uk

This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.