The Nissan Leaf launched in 2010 as one of the first mass-produced electric vehicles in the world, and for a while it was the bestselling EV. But now the company has announced the current Leaf model will be phased out, turning its attention instead to the Ariya.
Initially released in the U.S. in 2022, it didn’t take long for the Ariya to surpass the Leaf in almost every area. Now, with some stylish upgrades, it’s hoping to compete in the highly competitive EV market—a market so competitive, in fact, that Nissan unveiled price cuts to entice people to make the switch.
I spent a week driving the Ariya Platinum+ model, and was pleasantly surprised.
The Basics
This compact crossover SUV comes in multipe trim levels, ranging from the base model called the Engage, all the way up to the Platinum+. With the Engage, you’ll be getting into the category at a lower price than many competitors, but you’ll sacrifice a bit in range. The smaller battery pack on the Engage provides about 216 miles on a charge.
Other models, however, compare more favorably. Move up just one level to the Venture+ and you’ll see your range creep just above 300 miles on a full charge.
My Platinum+ Ariya tests out at around 267 miles. It features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that Nissan calls the e-4orce (pronounced e-force), and produces 389 horsepower.
Charging can be done at home or at public charging stations. Nissan has partnered with Tesla so the Ariya will be able to use the Tesla NACS (North American Charging Standard) charging port. That will open up Nissan drivers to the vast NACS network. For now, an adapter is available.
I charged the Ariya three times during my nine-day test drive, which included a jaunt between Denver and Colorado Springs, and each time I used an Electrify America charging station at a Walmart.
The Inside
It seems each all-electric vehicle makes its own statement when it comes to design. They never really look like the combustion engine machines we’re so used to.
In the case of the Ariya, it definitely stands out when you slide behind the wheel. First of all, there’s an abundance of space around your feet. With nothing on the floor between the dash and the center console, it seems both futuristic and minimalistic.
And while I’d stop short of calling it luxurious, it certainly comes across as dignified. I liked the wooden center dash with its display of haptic switches. Touch them and they vibrate, giving off a feel similar to the old-style mechanical switches. Takes some getting used to, but then you really enjoy them.
There’s plenty of space inside, too. Besides the legroom and generous headroom up front, you’ll find ample storage. There’s an available adjustable power-sliding center console, and even a fold-out tray if you’d like to splurge.
Passengers in the back won’t be as spoiled with the space, but it’s comfortable enough for adults.
Driver controls, including the large dashboard touchscreen, are intuitive and easy to reach. If you can, grab the available panoramic sun roof, which makes driving a joy.
The Drive
For years now, car enthusiasts have gushed over the snappy acceleration in certain EVs on the market. While the Ariya Platinum+ can sprint from zero to 60 in an impressive five seconds, you get the feeling Nissan is a bit more interested in producing a smooth, stable drive rather than a head-snapping rocket.
On the highway, I found the Ariya’s acceleration to be quite satisfactory, allowing me to merge and pass effortlessly.
Having said that, you’ll never describe the drive as sporty. And if that’s what you’re looking for in an electric SUV—not sure why you would—there are other choices.
Steering was about average, although there were times I felt like the car was overcompensating on some of my turns. It’s one of those things you end up getting a feel for after a day or two.
The Tech
You get not one, but two 12.3-inch displays, one for the driver’s digital instrument cluster and one for the infotainment system. Both are pleasing to the eye, which is more important than you might think.
A wireless charging station is available, as is a heads-up display, which has become one of my favorite features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both available.
Amazon Alexa is available, as well as a built-in voice assistant.
There are tons of solid safety features, including Nissan’s Safety Shield. That comes with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and high beam assist.
Also, Ariya offers ProPILOT Assist for hands-on aid when driving. If you want to step up, ProPILOT Assist 2.0 allows you take your hands off the steering wheel in certain driving conditions. Please, remain attentive at all times.
There’s also ProPILOT Park, which can help guide you into a parking space. Pretty cool.
The Bottom Line
There’s a lot to like about the Ariya. While there are plenty of competitors trying to catch your eye, Nissan has produced a fun, stylish, all-electric vehicle that stands out with some of its interior design flair.
Nissan is well aware of the tight market, and has upped the ante by slashing prices by several thousand dollars, and also teaming up with Tesla to use their network of charging stations around the country.
The Ariya is a solid replacement for the outgoing Leaf.
The Details
2024 Nissan Ariya
Platinum+ trim level
Dual-motor AWD
389 horsepower
289 miles on a full charge (varies by trim level)
MSRP: $54,190
As tested: $56,940
Review by Dom Testa
Vehicle provided by manufacturer
