Having just migrated from the impressive new Astra, the footprint of Nissan’s all-electric LEAF hatchback feels very familiar. But that’s sort of where the direct comparisons end, given the Astra delivers extremely low CO2 emissions while driving, whereas the LEAF puts a zero in that column.

The increased range on the 30kWh Nissan LEAF helps allay range anxiety fears

And it’s tough not to feel a little smugly superior, sat next to other drivers with internal combustion engines idling away in traffic – which I seem to do a lot – and thinking they represent the past. In truth, this feeling is strengthened by how brilliant the latest LEAF (with the 30kWh battery – increased from 24kWh) is on the road. That extra 6kWh makes a huge difference to the car’s usability, offering a realistic 135-plus miles from a full charge, and helps allay range anxiety fears.

Easy rapid charging at selected Nissan dealers, such as Glyn Hopkin, makes living with the LEAF an economical, painfree experience, with very few compromises. Which helps explain why this is my favourite car of 2016…