Should You Buy a 2019 or 2020 Nissan Leaf? A Safety & Value Comparison

For buyers prioritizing advanced safety features, the 2020 Nissan Leaf is the clear choice over the 2019 model, offering a significant upgrade in standard technology for a modest price increase.

The decision between a model-year-old car and the latest version often comes down to budget versus features. With the Nissan Leaf, the 2020 model year introduces a major change that tips the scales for safety-conscious shoppers and tech-savvy drivers. This analysis breaks down the key differences to help you determine which model year offers the best value for your needs.

What Safety Features Does the 2020 Nissan Leaf Add as Standard?

The most significant upgrade for the 2020 Leaf is the standardization of the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite of driver-assistance features across all trims. This package, which was optional or limited to higher trims in 2019, includes six key systems:

• Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision with a vehicle or a pedestrian.
• Blind Spot Warning: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots during highway driving.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns you of approaching traffic when reversing out of a parking space.
• Lane Departure Warning: Monitors lane markings and alerts you if you unintentionally drift out of your lane.
• Rear Automatic Braking: Can apply the brakes to avoid colliding with an object while reversing at low speeds.
• High-Beam Assist: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic.

For 2020, every Leaf, from the base S trim upwards, includes these features. This major enhancement provides a substantial increase in passive safety for a relatively small overall price bump.

How Much More Does the 2020 Nissan Leaf Cost?

The price increase for the 2020 model year is consistent across the lineup, reflecting the added standard equipment. All prices include the mandatory $925 destination charge.

• Leaf (40 kWh battery): The base S trim starts at $32,525, which is $1,610 more than the 2019 model. The SV trim starts at $35,115, a $1,590 increase.
• Leaf Plus (62 kWh battery): The Plus models also see similar increases. The S Plus starts at $39,125, the SV Plus at $40,675, and the SL Plus at $44,825.

It is important to note that the non-Plus SL trim has been discontinued for the 2020 model year. This simplifies the lineup but removes a previous mid-range option for the longer-range battery.

What Other Updates Come with the 2020 Model?

Beyond safety, the 2020 Leaf receives other noteworthy standard upgrades. The most prominent is the new 8-inch color touchscreen display, which replaces the smaller unit in the 2019 base models. This system includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, enhancing connectivity and infotainment accessibility for all owners.

For the Leaf Plus models, the standard safety upgrade is still significant. While these trims already featured key tech like automatic emergency braking and the e-Pedal (a system that allows for one-pedal driving using regenerative braking), they now benefit from the full Safety Shield 360 suite as well.

Is the 2020 Nissan Leaf a Better Value Than the 2019?

Based on our assessment experience, the value proposition depends on your priorities:

• Choose the 2020 Nissan Leaf if: Advanced safety technology is non-negotiable. The value of getting the entire Safety Shield 360 package, along with the larger touchscreen, far outweighs the ~$1,600 price increase. This is the recommended choice for new families, commuters, and anyone seeking peace of mind.
• Consider a 2019 Nissan Leaf if: Your budget is the absolute primary concern, and you are willing to forgo the latest safety tech to save money. A remaining 2019 model on a dealer lot or a well-maintained used example could offer considerable savings.

The 2020 Nissan Leaf is on sale now. When configuring your vehicle, factor in the discontinuation of the non-Plus SL trim and the universal inclusion of critical safety features that make the 2020 model a more complete and modern vehicle for a reasonable cost.