Nissan Leaf vs BMW 330i xDrive
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Nissan Leaf | BMW 330i xDrive | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 214 | 255 | -16.1% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 339 | 400 | -15.3% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (NHTSA) | 5★ (NHTSA) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Petrol | — |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $36,900 | $47,500 | -22.3% |
- BMW 330i xDrive makes about 16% more power (255 vs 214 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Verdict: Leaf or 330i xDrive?
Nissan Leaf advantages
- Affordability (+22%)
BMW 330i xDrive advantages
- Engine power (+16%)
- Pulling torque (+15%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Nissan Leaf if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the BMW 330i xDrive if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Value for money
Nissan Leaf delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Nissan Leaf vs BMW 330i xDrive: which should you choose?
Nissan Leaf (2026 SV Plus) — electric hatchback with 214 hp and 339 Nm, rated at 20.1 kWh/100km, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $36,900 in the US market.
BMW 330i xDrive (2025 Base AWD) — petrol sedan with 255 hp and 400 Nm, rated at 11.9 km/L, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $47,500 in the US market.
Nissan Leaf vs BMW 330i xDrive: BMW 330i xDrive is more powerful. BMW 330i xDrive makes about 16% more power (255 vs 214 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The BMW 330i xDrive is the more powerful, at 255 hp against 214 hp, with 400 Nm of torque on tap. Its petrol drivetrain pairs with a 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Electric vs Petrol), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
Nissan Leaf is rated 5 stars by NHTSA and BMW 330i xDrive 5 stars by NHTSA. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Nissan Leaf lists lower at about $36,900 (USD-converted from the US market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nissan Leaf better than the BMW 330i xDrive?
BMW 330i xDrive takes the overall edge, though Nissan Leaf wins in specific areas worth weighing. BMW 330i xDrive makes about 16% more power (255 vs 214 hp).
What is the main difference between the Nissan Leaf and the BMW 330i xDrive?
BMW 330i xDrive makes about 16% more power (255 vs 214 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
Nissan Leaf delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Nissan Leaf if you want the lower upfront cost. Choose the BMW 330i xDrive if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.