The 2025 Chicago Auto Show has opened its doors, showcasing the latest in automotive innovation and, surprisingly, one of the most attractive car deals we’ve seen in years. The real standout isn’t a flashy sports car or luxurious SUV—it’s the humble 2025 Nissan LEAF. Why? At an astonishing $9,140 (yes, really!), the LEAF offers incredible value with a few important caveats to consider. Here’s everything you need to know.
The Changing Face of the Chicago Auto Show
If you’re expecting the Chicago Auto Show of years past—packed halls, exciting displays, and endless commercial showcases—you might be disappointed this year. The show has scaled down significantly, occupying a single hall supported by numerous vendors, EV drive activations, and military recruitment booths.
While this evolution reflects broader changes in the auto industry, the show still holds relevance for local incentives and unique deals. One such deal? The jaw-dropping offer on Nissan’s groundbreaking electric vehicle (EV), the LEAF.
Why is the Nissan LEAF Such a Good Deal?
For 2025, the Nissan LEAF S has a starting price of $28,140—a remarkable figure in a world where the average vehicle transaction price is around $49,740. However, thanks to a combination of manufacturer cash incentives, state-level rebates, and localized programs, you can get this EV for as little as $9,140. Here’s the breakdown:
$7,500 Manufacturer Incentive
Nissan is clearing dealer lots to make space for next-generation models, offering $7,500 in customer cash right off the bat.
$4,000 Illinois EV Rebate
If you’re an Illinois resident and purchase before April 30th, you’re eligible for a $4,000 rebate.
$7,500 ComEd Rebate
ComEd is offering a $7,500 rebate for commercial customers who spend at least 50% of their time operating the LEAF in low-income or Environmental Justice (EIEC) areas.
The Final Price With Some Asterisks
When we do the math, $28,140 – $7,500 (Nissan) – $4,000 (Illinois rebate) – $7,500 (ComEd rebate) = $9,140. But—as with any deal of this magnitude—there are a few catches.
While the price is tempting, the Nissan LEAF has some limitations to consider:
- Range: The LEAF offers 149 miles per charge, sufficient for city commuting but limited for long trips.
- Charging Speed: Compared to competitors like the Hyundai IONIQ 5, the LEAF’s charging speed is slower.
- CHAdeMO Charging Standard: The LEAF uses CHAdeMO, a charging standard that has largely been phased out in favor of CCS (Combined Charging System). This means fewer public charging options.
Who Benefits the Most?
While these downsides may give individual drivers pause, the deal makes perfect sense for certain commercial applications. Parks districts, city planners, delivery fleets, and car-sharing services that can install dedicated chargers will find the Nissan LEAF to be an unbeatable value. Even ecologically-minded entrepreneurs (college students, take note!) could leverage its affordability for side gigs—think couriers with EVs or even a mobile landscaping service fitting tools in its roomy 23.6 cubic foot trunk.
The Bigger Picture & Why Local Auto Shows Matter
Deals like this one highlight why local events like the Chicago Auto Show are still relevant in an increasingly globalized, digital marketplace. National outlets like Motor Trend or Car and Driver may focus on broader, more international audiences, but local shows like this provide a platform for hyper-specific, region-focused benefits that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The 2025 Chicago Auto Show may not be the sprawling event of yesteryear, but it delivers incredible value to those paying attention—and the $9,140 Nissan LEAF is proof of that.
Plan Your Visit & Take Advantage of the LEAF Deal
Want to see the deal for yourself? Get your tickets to the Chicago Auto Show and explore ComEd’s EV rebate program here. And if you’re considering making a move into EV ownership, don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to drive away in the affordable, capable, and eco-friendly 2025 Nissan LEAF.
What’s your take on the state of the auto industry and offers like this? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s chat about the evolving automotive landscape.
