The Nissan Ariya has been a notable entry in the electric vehicle (EV) market, showcasing Nissan’s evolution from the pioneering Leaf. This analysis aggregates and compares reviews from five credible sources to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Ariya’s strengths and weaknesses. The review sources include TopGear, Car and Driver, Edmunds, Auto Express, and Autocar.
Comparative Table of Ratings
| Attribute | TopGear | Car and Driver | Edmunds | Auto Express | Autocar |
| Driving Experience | 4 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.4 | 3.5 |
| Interior Quality | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 4 |
| Range and Efficiency | 3.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 3.8 | 3 |
| Technology and Features | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.2 | 4 |
| Practicality and Space | 4 | 4 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| Charging Speed | 3.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3 |
| Value for Money | 3.5 | 3.5 | 4 | 4 | 3 |
| Overall Rating | 4 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.4 | 3.5 |
Summary
TopGear
TopGear praises the Nissan Ariya for its luxurious cabin, decent driving experience, and adequate range. However, the review highlights some drawbacks, including its polarizing design and less-than-stellar efficiency compared to competitors. Despite these issues, the Ariya’s equipment and overall quality make it a compelling choice in the electric SUV market.
Car and Driver
Car and Driver offers a mixed review of the Ariya. While acknowledging its superior interior design and livable driving range, the review criticizes its lack of driving excitement and slower fast-charging capabilities. The review concludes that the Ariya is a competent, if somewhat unexciting, addition to the EV market, ranking it behind several competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6.
Edmunds
Edmunds highlights the Ariya’s comfortable and quiet ride, advanced driver assistance features, and high-quality interior materials. The review notes that the Ariya’s performance is solid but not exhilarating, with a smooth and composed driving experience. The interior is praised for its spaciousness and modern design, though the infotainment system could be more user-friendly. Edmunds concludes that the Ariya is a well-rounded EV with a lot to offer, especially for those prioritizing comfort and technology.
Auto Express
Auto Express provides a glowing review of the Nissan Ariya, awarding it 4.5 out of 5 stars. The review commends the Ariya’s driving dynamics, premium interior, and overall refinement. However, it notes that the efficiency could be better, and the top-spec models are quite expensive. The Ariya is described as a well-rounded and highly recommendable electric SUV.
Autocar
Autocar’s review is somewhat critical, rating the Ariya 3.5 out of 5. The review highlights the spacious and inviting interior, as well as the refined powertrain. However, it criticizes the car’s unsettled ride and lack of headroom for taller passengers. Autocar concludes that while the Ariya has many appealing qualities, it falls short in some key areas, making it less competitive against premium rivals.
Overall Product Summary
The Nissan Ariya emerges as a strong contender in the electric SUV market, boasting several commendable attributes. The Ariya’s interior is frequently highlighted for its premium feel and spaciousness, with many reviewers noting the high-quality materials and innovative design elements such as haptic buttons and a minimalistic dashboard. This interior quality is a significant step up from previous Nissan models, making the Ariya a standout in its class.
Driving the Ariya is generally described as pleasant and comfortable, with smooth handling and a stable ride. The performance varies across different trims, with the higher-end models offering more power and better acceleration. However, some reviews point out that the Ariya lacks the sporty feel of competitors like the Kia EV6 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5. The ride quality also receives mixed reviews, with some critics noting that it can be unsettled on rough roads.
Range and efficiency are adequate but not class-leading. The Ariya offers a range of up to 329 miles on a single charge for the larger battery models, which is competitive but slightly behind some rivals. The charging speed, capped at 130 kW for DC fast charging, is another area where the Ariya falls short compared to faster-charging models from Hyundai and Kia.
In terms of technology and features, the Ariya is well-equipped. It includes dual 12.3-inch displays, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Nissan’s ProPilot 2.0 driver assistance system. These features contribute to a modern and convenient driving experience, though some reviewers feel that the infotainment system could be more responsive.
Practicality is one of the Ariya’s strong suits, with ample space for passengers and cargo. The flat floor and spacious cabin make it a practical choice for families. However, taller passengers might find headroom limited, especially in models with a panoramic sunroof.
Value for money is a mixed bag for the Ariya. While it offers a lot of features and a premium feel, its pricing is on the higher side, particularly for the top-spec models. This higher price point might be justified by the quality and technology offered, but it places the Ariya in competition with more established premium brands.
In conclusion, the Nissan Ariya is a well-rounded electric SUV that excels in interior quality, technology, and practicality. It provides a comfortable and refined driving experience but falls slightly behind in terms of sporty performance and charging speed. Its higher price might be a deterrent for some, but those looking for a premium electric SUV with a spacious and luxurious interior will find the Ariya a compelling option.