Nissan’s second electric vehicle, the Ariya, is larger than the compact Leaf model and offers a calming, composed ride in luxury.
The Ariya has a modern look with soft flowing lines and unique signature lights that draw the eye to the black panel that would be a grill on a conventional gas car. The handsome shape of the body is more sculpted for cheating the wind. Choose the top platinum trim level for 19-inch wheels with flashy Aero covers. Out back, the design is clean and simple with a rear wing on the hatch to break up the look.
Inside, the Nissan Ariya is pleasing with the luxurious look and feel of the Platinum+ model. The Nappa leather seats look upscale, and the contrast-colored stitching adds a nice touch. There is also wood trim that runs across the dash and the center console, giving this EV the luxury treatment of its Infiniti luxury car brand.
There is a nifty center power storage area to stow items out of sight. Even the center console slides back and forth creating a bit of open space when moved.
The Ariya’s dual motors offer more power than the single version motor. With 389 hp, the Ariya was quick to accelerate. The dual motor versions also have all-wheel drive with good traction that easily gets all that instant power to the ground. This is a comfortable car with exceptionally low noise levels on the highway and it’s even more hushed in the city. I found the ProPilot Assist 2.0 useful on longer highway trips with the system handling some of the driving duties. If you’re coming from another EV, you’ll want to know it’s not one-pedal driving. I needed to hit the brake pedal more than some other EVs.
Cost: $54,190; as tested $56,940
MPG: 93 mpge city; 87 mpge highway
Options: $350 two-tone paint; $250 carpeted floor mats and first-aid kit; $750 exterior ground lighting
Safety: Electronic brake force distribution and assist; intelligent cruise control; automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection; intelligent forward collision warning; rear automatic braking; blind spot warning; rear cross-traffic alert; lane departure warning; intelligent engine braking; ProPilot Assist 2.0, intelligent cruise control with full range hold; high beam assist; safety shield 360
Things to know: The Ariya is a midsize EV with an upscale interior and a quiet, composed ride that could appeal to those looking to move to an electric vehicle.
Pros:
- Loaded with safety and in-car technology
- Luxurious and well-thought-out interior design
- Look for price drops in some models compared to the previous year’s model
Cons:
- Pricey in top trim level models
- Does not charge as fast as some of the competition
- Single motor version might feel underpowered
