"Snow fills the sky as I step out from underneath the protective canopy of the hotel. This is not unusual in Japan, especially in the north. Today, however, I am in Osaka and snow any time of year is a rare sight. The sense of merriment from passers-by is hilarious to watch.
Search available trim options for the Nissan models.
In a similar way, the Nissan LEAF is not your typical four-door hatchback. It also makes for an unusual taxi ride as we approach the driver’s window; but this is Japan and unique is a constant event. When it comes to the vehicles parading up and down city streets, I am impressed how far some Japanese drivers will go to make theirs stand out from the crowd.
Power for the LEAF comes in the form of 48 laminated compact Lithium-ion battery modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor. Together they produce a total of 107 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque.
Acceleration is not rapid; nor is steering sports car crisp; but driving the LEAF is an equally pleasurable experience when compared to other “green” cars such as the Toyota Prius, Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Altima Hybrid.
Aerodynamics plays a significant part in the overall design of the innovative LEAF. “Smart fluidity” combines a clean outward appearance and aerodynamic acoustics to produce a quiet driving experience in every way possible.
Designed in the shape of an upright “V”, elongated headlights split direct airflow around the mirrors to minimize drag and wind noise. Underneath, Nissan utilizes a flat underbody to allow air to pass through as efficiently as possible. Given its proclivity for silence, the LEAF incorporates an “Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians” at speeds below 26 km/h. In a city such as Osaka, where noise is a constant issue, this is a feature that seems to work rather well.
In the heart of the city, the 14-story Hotel Monterey Osaka features 194 comfortable rooms and suites. Checking in, close quarter elevators take me to my 8th floor accommodations. The room feels airy with two twin beds covered in traditional Japanese fabric of red and gold. Asian hotel rooms can be a bit of a shock at first for North American travellers. Size, furniture and storage areas are generally smaller, but there is plenty of room for luggage and clothes.
A small desk offers the perfect setting for a laptop, with free high-speed Internet access included. The room also houses a TV and small refrigerator stocked with the basics. Bathroom amenities include a large sink area, full-size tub and shower and my favourite new feature in Japan, a heated toilet seat.
A haven for couples getting married, the main floor chapel is the center of action for numerous weddings during our stay. Breakfast is provided each morning in one of two large ballrooms, with dinner served bar style or in a more traditional setting. We choose to explore the city and discover a wealth of dining options located below street level in a city revered for its enormous underground network. There is no lack of choice.
“No” is also a big word when describing the Nissan LEAF powerplant, but not in a negative sense. It effectively produces no noise, no emissions, uses no gas and, if you look closely, possesses no tailpipe.
No does not apply to the interior, however, as seating for up to five adults is comfortable.
Two models offer varying levels of equipment. LEAF SV provides six-way manual driver’s seat plus four-way front passenger seat adjustment. Standard features also include stereo sound with MP3/CD playback, iPod connectivity and six speakers, power windows, mirrors, door locks and push button start. LEAF SL adds a photovoltaic panel spoiler, fog lights and cargo cover. The distinctive “EV Touch” interior is bright and inviting.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Monterey Osaka
3-3-45 Umeda Kita-ku Osaka
Osaka-fu 530-0001, Japan
www.hotelmonterey.co.jp
Summary:
Year/Make/Model 2012 Nissan LEAF
Price as tested TBA
Options N/A
EnerGuide fuel economy ratings 192-cell laminated lithium-ion (24 kWh)
Warranty (basic) 8 years/ 160,000 km (battery)
Warranty (powertrain) 8 years/ 160,000 km (battery)
Competitors Chevrolet Volt; Toyota Prius plug-in
Strong PointsWeak Points
- design
- style
- comfort
- limited driving range
Editors Rating:
Fuel consumption
uses no fuel
Value for price
outstanding quality; expensive to buy
Styling
love it or hate it design
Comfort
excellent seats, bright, inviting interior
Performance
4-cylinder power with no emissions
overall
EVs are coming on strong
Em: http://www.autonet.ca/autos/search/newm ... tonet.html