Cheaper Mitsubishi i offers better MPGe’s than Nissan Leaf

The Mitsubishi i electric cars offers better MPGe's than the Nissan Leaf, but less overall range. So, which is the better electric car.

i electric offers better MPGe's than the Leaf, but less overall range

But the Leaf offers 11 miles more range

What’s the best plug-in electric car? Obviously, that depends on numerous factors, but will overall efficiency be one of them?

According to the EPA’s Miles Per Gallon of Gasoline Equivalent, or MPGe, the 2012 Mitsubishi i offers 126 MPGe in city driving and 99 MPGe on the highway. For comparison, the 2011 Nissan Leaf delivers 106 MPGe in city driving and 92 MPGe on the highway.

So, is the i a better electric car than the Leaf?

Not only does the the Mitsubishi i perform more efficiently than the Leaf, it does so for about $4,000 less than the Leaf. However, and here’s the kicker, the EPA rates the i’s range at just 62 miles, while the Leaf is rated at 73.

Aside from the Leaf’s better overall range, it’s extra weight and size ‘feels’ more safe and reliable. I’d bet many electric car consumers will be willing to pay an extra $4000 for those comforts.

Source: EPA data via InsideLine

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