2011 Nissan LEAF: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2011 Nissan LEAF is an all-new model and the first U.S. model year for Nissan’s five-seat electric hatchback. Its headline change is the debut of a dedicated EV platform shared by the SV and SL trims.
About the 2011 Nissan LEAF
1st generation (ZE0), first U.S. model year and launch year
Nissan positioned the LEAF as an electric car for everyday driving, not a special-purpose novelty. Its core appeal was simple: no gasoline, no tailpipe emissions, quiet operation, and enough range for typical daily commuting. Nissan’s own launch messaging stressed that it was an affordable, mainstream electric hatchback with built-in tools to help drivers monitor range, plan charging, and live with EV ownership day to day.
The SV represents the core LEAF experience, with an 80-kW electric motor, a 24-kWh battery, navigation, charge scheduling, climate timers, LED headlights, and keyless start. The SL uses the same electric drivetrain but adds everyday conveniences such as a rearview camera, automatic headlights, fog lights, HomeLink, and a small solar-panel rear spoiler.
What changed, by category
2011 Nissan LEAF specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 107 hp | 107 hp |
| Torque | 207 lb-ft | 207 lb-ft |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 84 | 84 |
| MPGe Combined | 99 | 99 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Headlights | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2011 the first U.S. model year for the Nissan LEAF?
Yes. The 2011 LEAF is the model’s first U.S. year and the launch of its first generation, known as ZE0.
What is the difference between the 2011 LEAF SV and SL?
The SL is the better-equipped trim, adding a rearview camera, automatic headlights, fog lights, HomeLink, and a small solar-panel rear spoiler. The SV has the same electric drivetrain and core navigation and charge-management features without those extras.
Does the 2011 LEAF SL have more power or range than the SV?
No. The SL and SV use the same 80-kW electric motor and 24-kWh battery; the SL’s differences are convenience and visibility features rather than extra power or range.
What charging equipment does the 2011 Nissan LEAF use?
The 2011 LEAF has a 3.3-kW onboard charger, and the SV’s equipment includes a 240-volt charge port. Charge scheduling helps owners control when charging begins.
What technology is standard on the 2011 Nissan LEAF?
Navigation and displays for estimated range, energy use, and charge management are standard on both 2011 LEAF trims. The SV also highlights charge scheduling, climate timers, LED headlights, and keyless start.