Updated 2023 Nissan Leaf EV Teased By ETCM

Whilst all attention on Valentine’s Day earlier this week centred around a certain new and affordable supermini’s launch, we almost missed this teaser from Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) released on the same day via its official Nissan Malaysia Facebook Page.

Cheesy pun-filled copy aside, we’re certain ETCM has indeed stated its intent on introducing a refreshed 2023 model year iteration of the Nissan Leaf – the firm’s sole Nissan-badged electric vehicle (EV) offering. The second generation iteration of the Nissan brand’s all-electric hatchback was introduced locally by ETCM back in 2019, so a refresh is somewhat due.

Note: 2023MY Japan-spec (JDM) Nissan Leaf 'X' grade pictured.

Presently, ETCM offers the Leaf through regular outright purchase priced at RM175,800, as well a novel ‘subscription’ scheme priced from RM2,300 monthly.  ETCM were coy about stating any firm launch dates, but credible sources have indicated to CariCarz.com that its arrival could come as early as March this year.

Note: 2023MY Japan-spec Nissan Leaf pictured.

We expect quite a few things with this new model year update, key amongst which being a mild exterior nip-tuck with new design wheels, and perhaps a lightly revised cabin to match. Though unconfirmed still, we’re assuming the latter will perhaps include a new and more interactive infotainment touchscreen unit primed with Apple CarPlay at least – current Japanese-spec versions already do, in fact.

Charging inputs seen in the current Malaysia-spec Nissan Leaf launched by ETCM in 2019.

What’s also uncertain are changes towards both battery size and charging inputs. Though both 40 kWh and 62 kWh capacities are available, ETCM opted to offer the Leaf solely with the former when it was launched locally in 2019.

Regardless of capacity, the present Leaf only accepts Type 1 AC and CHAdeMO DC quick-charging inputs, the former up to 6.6 kW, and the latter up to 50 kW instead. Aptly, an update on this front will be welcoming given that Type 2 CCS charging is fast becoming the norm in Malaysia now.

As for range and performance, the Leaf primed with the 40 kWh battery sees its front-mounted motor serve up 148 HP (110 kW) and 320 NM to drive the front wheels, offering a claimed maximum travel range of 311 KM (NEDC). We should see little to no changes here should ETCM opt for the 40 kWh battery capacity still.

At this point, your guess is as good as ours, though we reckon revisions towards the charging input plus an updated infotainment unit are warranted at the very least. Based on our sources, we’ll know more soon rather than later, so look out for updates here in the coming weeks.