Nissan LEAF SV Plus vs Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Which EV is better?
Head-to-head: Nissan LEAF SV Plus vs Tesla Model 3 Long Range. Compare real range, efficiency, charging time, price, rating and running costs to find the best electric vehicle for you in 2026.
Our verdict
Tesla Model 3 Long Range wins this head-to-head
It wins 6 of 8 categories compared below, with a margin of 5 category wins.
The numbers that matter
Real, comparable stats from our database. The green value wins each category.
| Specification | LEAF SV Plus | Model 3 Long Range |
|---|---|---|
| Range Model 3 Long Range wins | 341 km | 549 km |
| Battery Model 3 Long Range wins | 60 kWh | 82 kWh |
| Efficiency Model 3 Long Range wins | 17.6 kWh/100km | 14.9 kWh/100km |
| 0-100 km/h Model 3 Long Range wins | 6.5 s | 4.2 s |
| Fast charge 10-80% Model 3 Long Range wins | ~45 min | ~22 min |
| Seats tie | 5 | 5 |
| Price LEAF SV Plus wins | $33,490 | $44,990 |
| Rating Model 3 Long Range wins | 3.8 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Est. running cost / yr | $396/yr | $335/yr |
View the full specification sheet
| Specification | LEAF SV Plus | Model 3 Long Range |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 60 kWh | 82 kWh |
| Range | 212 mi (EPA) | 341 mi (EPA) |
| Top speed | 98 mph | 145 mph |
| Power | FWD · 214 hp | AWD · 423 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 s | 4.2 s |
| Charging (10-80%) | ~45 min (50kW) | ~22 min |
| e-Pedal | Yes | — |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Drive | — | Dual motor AWD |
Nissan LEAF SV Plus
Pros
- Affordable entry point
- Simple, easy ownership
- One-pedal driving
- Available everywhere
Cons
- Aging CHAdeMO charging
- Mediocre range by 2024 standards
- Less engaging to drive
- Dated interior
Tesla Model 3 Long Range
Pros
- Long real-world range
- Best fast-charging network
- Frequent software updates
- Low long-term running costs
Cons
- Minimalist interior is not for everyone
- No physical buttons
- Build quality varies
- Insurance can be pricey
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tesla Model 3 Long Range really better than Nissan LEAF SV Plus?
Our verdict is based on real specs: range, battery, efficiency, acceleration, charging speed, seats, price and rating. The winner wins the majority of those categories, but the right choice depends on your budget, driving style and priorities.
Which has more range, Nissan LEAF SV Plus or Tesla Model 3 Long Range?
341 km vs 549 km respectively, before factoring in weather and driving conditions.
Which is cheaper to run?
Based on official efficiency and a typical $0.15/kWh tariff at 15,000 km per year, running costs are estimated at $396/yr for the Nissan LEAF SV Plus and $335/yr for the Tesla Model 3 Long Range.
Should I compare more models?
Yes - add both models to our interactive comparator to see every spec side by side, or use the Which EV quiz to find more models that fit your budget and lifestyle.
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Not sure which one is right for you?
Add these models to our interactive comparator and compare every spec side by side, or take the quiz to find even more matches.