BMW i3 vs Nissan Leaf
Buy the Nissan Leaf for the stronger all-round Decoder Score (56/100). Choose the BMW i3 if its strengths match your priorities.
48 BMW i3 EV Decoder estimate | 56 Nissan Leaf EPA + mfr data | |
|---|---|---|
| Decoder Score | 48 | 56 |
| Starting price | $30,000 | $29,000 |
| Used from | $12,000 | $10,000 |
| EPA range | 153 mi | 212 mi |
| Real-world range | 125 mi | 174 mi |
| Battery | 42 kWh | 60 kWh |
| Efficiency | 4.1 mi/kWh | 3.5 mi/kWh |
| DC fast charge | 50 kW | 50 kW |
| Level 2 charge | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| Seats | 4 | 5 |
| Cargo | 15 cu ft | 24 cu ft |
| 0–60 mph | 6.9s | 7.4s |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 214 hp |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
| Towing | — | — |
| Battery warranty | 8 yr | 8 yr |
| Tax credit | No | No |
| Owner rating | 4.2/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Best for | Commuter, Budget | Budget, Commuter |
Price
The Nissan Leaf starts lower at $29,000, versus $30,000 for the other. On the used market both have come down — check current listings before deciding.
Range
The Nissan Leaf leads on EPA range at 212 mi. In the real world both land around 82% of that in mixed driving — run your conditions through the range calculator.
Charging
The BMW i3 peaks higher at 50 kW, which shortens road-trip stops. Also check plug type: NACS access to the Supercharger network can matter more than a few kW.
Interior & practicality
The Nissan Leaf offers more cargo room (24 cu ft). Consider seating layout and rear space too, not just the headline number.
Performance
The BMW i3 is quicker to 60 mph (6.9s). Both feel brisk in everyday driving thanks to instant electric torque.
Family use
With 5 seats, the Nissan Leaf suits larger families better. Factor in car-seat access and cargo behind the third row if fitted.
Road trip use
Road trips reward range plus fast charging. The Nissan Leaf scores higher on our road-trip metric.
Used buyer notes
Both depreciate; that's the used buyer's opportunity. Check battery health, any open recalls, and that the charging port matches the network you'll use. See the used EV buying guide for a full checklist.
Nissan Leaf, for most people.
Run the numbers for your own driving with the calculators, then compare more EVs in the same class.