Pricing for 2014 Nissan LEAF announced, with enhancements

The 2014 Nissan LEAF has hit dealerships nationally and has a starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $28,980 before incentives and destination and handling. There are three trim levels plus option packages as well as some added standard options for all models.

The three trim levels are S, SV and SL and options include Around View Monitor, 7-speaker Bose audio, and a new exterior color, Gun Metallic, making for seven total exterior color options.

Rearview Monitor, which was previously available only as part of the Charge Package, is now standard on all Nissan LEAF models for the 2014 model year. Driving range is still 84 miles and MPGe ratings remain 126 in the city and 101 on the highway for a 114 MPGe combined.

Suggested retail price for the base model LEAF S is $28,980, for the LEAF SV it is $32,000 and for the LEAF SL it is $35,020. Prices do not include destination or incentives.

The powertrain has not been changed and is still comprised of 48 power modules in the lithium-ion battery pack powering an 80kW AC synchronous motor (107 hp, 187 lb-ft). Charging can be done in five hours with the included 6.6kW onboard charger and a 220V outlet or eight hours with the 3.6kW charger (S-grade). The battery pack still includes an 8 year, 100,000 mile warranty.

The 2014 Nissan LEAF is assembled at the Smyrna, Tennessee plant with batteries being assembled on-site in the largest lithium-ion automotive battery plant in the U.S.