We test the Nissan Ariya: an electric car for all tastes. Nissan has been one of the pioneers in electrification, launching the Nissan Leaf in 2010, one of the first mass-produced electric cars. Since then, the Japanese company has continued to expand its range of plug-in models, leading up to the Nissan Ariya, its flagship electric SUV. Introduced in 2022, the Ariya competes in the high-end electric SUV segment and is available in three versions: Ariya 2WD with a 63 kWh battery, Ariya 2WD with an 87 kWh battery, and Ariya e-4ORCE AWD with an 87 kWh battery. Depending on the version, the range varies between 403 and 533 km according to the WLTP cycle.
More Than 3,300 Kilometers Driven
During our test drive, and in just four days, we covered more than 3,300 kilometers across different types of roads in Spain, from highways to mountain roads and secondary routes, charging exclusively at Zunder stations. The Ariya stood out for its excellent ride comfort and quiet driving, with outstanding cabin sound insulation. Additionally, its suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a pleasant driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
Nissan Ariya Charging Test at Zunder
During our time with the Nissan Ariya, we had the opportunity to test it at Zunder Ultra-Fast Charging Stations. As seen in the charging curve in the Zunder app, the vehicle starts charging at a power of 130 kW, which gradually decreases as the battery percentage increases. Upon reaching 80%, the charging power remained around 80 kW before tapering off in the final phase, as is common with electric cars. In just 25 minutes, this car can charge from 30% to 80%, which aligns with recommended and practical stop times.
Other Highlights of the Nissan Ariya
In terms of safety, the Nissan Ariya is equipped with a comprehensive package of driver assistance features. Notable ones include ProPILOT with Navi-link, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed based on the route and traffic conditions, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. It also features a 360º camera for easier maneuvering in tight spaces and adaptive cruise control with a stop-and-go function. These systems, combined with precise steering and responsive acceleration, make the Ariya a safe and easy-to-drive vehicle. As for cargo capacity, it offers up to 468 liters of trunk space without folding down the seats.
Among the available options, the Ariya comes with either a 63 kWh or 87 kWh battery, with front-wheel drive offered in Engage, Advance, and Evolve trims, depending on the level of equipment and advanced assistance systems. For those looking for more grip and dynamic performance, Nissan offers the e-4ORCE version with all-wheel drive and dual motors, featuring an 87 kWh battery and available in Advance, Evolve, and Evolve+ trims. And we can’t forget the most dynamic and sporty version of this model: the Ariya Nismo, an exclusive variant boasting 320 kW (435 hp), e-4ORCE all-wheel drive, an 87 kWh battery, an enhanced chassis for optimized handling, upgraded interior finishes, and a Formula E-inspired artificial sound system.
Regarding pricing and options, the Nissan Ariya starts at approximately €42,000 for the base 2WD 63 kWh version, while the Ariya 2WD 87 kWh is priced around €45,000. The most well-equipped version, the Ariya e-4ORCE AWD 87 kWh, exceeds €50,000 but offers all-wheel drive and optimized performance in any weather condition. For the most demanding drivers, the Ariya Nismo starts at around €58,000.
