#50 of 50 · Electric
Nissan Leaf: importing one from Japan to Ireland
An affordable used electric car, with battery health as the key check.
Why Irish buyers choose it
The Leaf is one of the cheapest ways into an EV. Japanese Leafs are plentiful, and the 40 kWh and 62 kWh (e+) versions offer usable range for Irish commutes.
Real auction prices in Japan
| Year | Sold | Median price | Median km |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 10 | €6,976 | 7k km |
| 2024 | 27 | €8,467 | 10k km |
| 2023 | 83 | €7,354 | 30k km |
| 2022 | 276 | €5,294 | 35k km |
| 2021 | 322 | €4,362 | 47k km |
| 2020 | 189 | €3,472 | 60k km |
| 2019 | 439 | €3,029 | 75k km |
| 2018 | 437 | €2,279 | 81k km |
| 2017 | 292 | €1,196 | 87k km |
| 2016 | 208 | €352 | 86k km |
Auction hammer prices in Japan, before shipping, duty, VAT, VRT and fees.
Most compared with
- Renault Zoe
- Hyundai Ioniq Electric
- Volkswagen e-Golf
Importing it to Ireland
Japan-built Leafs can qualify for 0% duty. EVs qualify for VRT relief (see our news roundup), which makes the Leaf especially good value.
Japan-built: can qualify for 0% duty with documented origin. VAT at 23% and VRT apply to every import.
What to check
Always ask for the battery state-of-health (SOH) bar count or report; it is the most important factor for a used Leaf.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Nissan Leaf cost at auction in Japan?
The median auction price over the last three months was €2,500, with most selling between €654 and €4,109, before shipping, taxes and fees.
Is there import duty on a Nissan Leaf from Japan?
Japan-built cars can qualify for 0% customs duty from February 2026 with documented Japanese origin.
What is the Nissan Leaf most compared with?
Irish buyers most often compare it with the Renault Zoe, Hyundai Ioniq Electric and Volkswagen e-Golf.