Nissan LEAF vs. Chevrolet Bolt EV

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Nissan LEAF and Chevrolet Bolt EV contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Nissan LEAF and the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

In comparing the Nissan LEAF's and the Chevrolet Bolt EV's specifications and ratings, the Nissan LEAF has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, resale value and interior volume. The Chevrolet Bolt EV has the advantage in the areas of new vehicle base pricing and base engine power. Based on this comparison of the Nissan LEAF's and the Chevrolet Bolt EV's specifications and ratings, the Nissan LEAF is a better car than the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

Pricing: A used 2023 Nissan LEAF ranges from $12,999 to $24,976 while a used 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV is priced between $14,444 to $24,988. For a new model, the Nissan LEAF's price is between $28,787 and $39,135, with the Chevrolet Bolt EV priced between $27,430 and $34,567.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Nissan LEAF loses 64.5 percent of its value and the Chevrolet Bolt EV loses 65.4 percent of its value. This means the Nissan LEAF retains 0.9 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Nissan LEAF’s base engine makes 147 horsepower, and the Chevrolet Bolt EV base engine makes 200 horsepower. The LEAF is rated to deliver an average of 123 miles per gallon of gasoline-equivalent (MPGe), with a highway range of 150 miles. The Bolt EV is rated to deliver an average of 127 miles per gallon of gasoline-equivalent (MPGe), with a highway range of 259 miles. This gives the Chevrolet Bolt EV the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the Nissan LEAF. Both models use electricity. The charge time for the LEAF is 8 hours (240V), while the charge time for the Bolt EV is 7 hours (240V).

Passenger Space Comparison: While both models are electric compact cars, the Nissan LEAF has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room and cargo space. The Chevrolet Bolt EV has the advantage in the areas of front shoulder room, front leg room, rear head room, rear shoulder room and rear leg room.

Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, both the Nissan LEAF and the Chevrolet Bolt EV have the same average safety rating of 5 out of 5 Stars.