2011 Nissan Leaf SL Trim Overview

As the Leaf's premium trim, the 2011 Nissan Leaf SL electric car includes such standard features as a rear rooftop spoiler with an integrated solar panel, which recharges the car's lithium-ion battery pack while under way. Other standard features specific to the Leaf SL include a rear-view parking-assist monitor, a cargo cover, foglights, and auto on/off headlights. The Leaf SL's cabin seats five passengers and comes equipped with a Nissan navigation system, which enables drivers to find recharging stations locally, as well as view trip/route information and keep tabs on how far they can travel on the battery's current charge. In addition, owners can manage the car's climate control system remotely using a smart phone. A digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, tilt steering column, Intelligent Key system with push-button start, and six-speaker audio system with a CD player, MP3 input jack, and XM satellite radio also come standard. The driver's seat features six-way manual adjustment, while the passenger seat adjusts four ways manually.

A 48-module battery pack, located under the seats and rear floor, provides power for the Leaf's 80-kilowatt electric motor, which generates 106 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. Because the Leaf has no transmission and full torque available at all times, it accelerates quickly and smoothly, with a top speed of 90 mph. Owners can recharge the Leaf's battery in about 20 hours using a standard household 120-volt outlet and the included Trickle charging cable, or about eight hours using a 220-volt outlet. In addition, owners can arrange to have a dedicated in-home charging station installed, which recharges 80% of the battery's power in about 30 minutes. Drivers engage the Leaf's gears using a palm-shift drive selector located on the center console. Nissan's electronic stability control system, called Vehicle Dynamic Control, comes standard, along with traction control and antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. The Leaf rides on 16-inch alloy wheels and comes equipped with a tire repair kit.