2024 Nissan Ariya
Nissan has been banking on the Ariya as one of two battery-electric vehicles available for consumers. The SUV makes a statement as a strong competitor in growing EV segment.
Some time ago, we reviewed the single-motor version of this EV. Now, we get the dual-motor e-4ORCE all-wheel drive version. Considering the region where we are based in, all-wheel drive is something consumers prefer. Does it make the Ariya a more desirable product?
If you’re comparing it to an internal combustion engine model, the Ariya is about the same size as the Rogue. The angular design starts with a solid “grille” panel flanked by the headlamp units. It is a bold statement inviting one to look at the Ariya from the front. The roofline has a fastback-like style towards the rear, yet it does not have a glass panel on the C pillar. It is quite tall below the window line. The rear end offers a horizontal taillight bar below the window line.
Our Platinum+ dual-motor e-4ORCE tester wore a set of 20-inch wheels with aerodynamic wheel covers. The blue-on-black paint scheme shows off a very stealthy look. It does come in other colors that make the Ariya pop out more in a crowd.
Inside, you get a tablet-like wide screen area, split between a digital instrument cluster and the infotainment screen. The instrumentation is comprehensive and informative, with customization for the right information you need. Nissan’s infotainment system is very good and work well within the new screen. A large and informative head-up display helps keep your eyes on the road. You will find a combination of tactile and haptic controls throughout the cabin. When the vehicle is off, the Ariya’s interior is clean and tidy to look at.
The environmentally friendly leatherette seating offers solid comfort. You have electric controls for both front seats. There is some bolstering to lock you in and they are very wide, fitting within a spacious cabin area. The center console is adjustable back-and-forth.
Rear seat room is excellent with more than enough leg and head room for a lot of different bodies. Cargo space is pretty decent. The 22.8 cubic feet space behind the rear seats expand to a generous 59.7 cubic feet with those seats down. There is no front cargo space due to the electric drive system taking up the area below the hood.
Our tester came with the e-4FORCE Dual Motor system. With a motor on each axle, you get the benefit of a combined 389 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque delivering power to all four wheels through a direct drive transmission. An 87-kilowatt-hour battery “fuels” the motor with an estimated range on this model is 267 miles. If you recharge at a DC Fast Charging station, Nissan states that it would take 40 minutes to go from 10-80% state of charge.
The driving experience is very solid. The ride was firm, but very confident no matter the surface. Handling was mainly flat with some roll through the curves. It is a very controlled vehicle overall.
Steering is solid with a good on-center feel. Turning radius is actually quite good, but you can maneuver quite well if you need to.
Brakes are solid, turning in good stops during normal and panic situations. Pedal feel is really good when you are in a normal braking mode. Turn on the e-Step mode and you get a more aggressive brake regeneration sending more power back to the battery pack. All you have to do is to step off the pedals when it is engaged towards a solid stop.
The 2024 Nissan Ariya lineup starts at $39,590. There are eight trim levels to choose from, including four with the dual-motor al-wheel drive system. Our Platinum+ dual-motor e-4ORCE all-wheel drive tester came with a sticker price of $56,940.
The Ariya continues to attract those looking for a battery electric SUVs in its size segment. Competitors include the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Kia EV6, Volkswagen ID.4, Tesla Model Y, Honda Prologue, Toyota bZ4X, Subaru Solterra, Chevrolet Equinox EV and Blazer EV.
Given the current competition, Nissan produces a really good battery-electric SUV. The Ariya continues to be a good choice for consumers looking for a family vehicle or a spacious commuter. Especially in the all-wheel drive version.
Credits: CarSoup Editors
