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Mainstreamelectric hatchNo longer sold new

Nissan Leaf value and depreciation

Known for sa's first mainstream electric car.

Year-1 depreciation
23%
3-year retention
59%
5-year retention
44%
Tier
Mainstream

Depreciation curve

R0R25R50R75R100Now1y2y3y4y5y6y7y8y9y10yYears from now

We class the Nissan Leaf as a mainstream in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 59% after three years and 44% after five. Solid volume sellers from established brands. Around two thirds of the price left after three years.

Retention table

AfterRetained
1 year78%
3 years59%
5 years44%
7 years32%
10 years20%

Estimates for a new purchase at list price; retail basis, trade-in ≈ 12% under retail.

The Leaf was SA's first mass-market electric car when it went on sale in October 2013. High pricing, a thin charging network and range anxiety kept sales tiny, and Nissan dropped it in 2023. Used examples are cheap, but a battery health check is essential before buying.

Leaf against its rivals

Nissan Leaf: common questions

Does the Nissan Leaf hold its value?

We class the Nissan Leaf as a mainstream in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 59% after three years and 44% after five. Solid volume sellers from established brands. Around two thirds of the price left after three years.

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All figures are modelled estimates for planning, not offers or valuations. Data reviewed 2026.