Nissan Ariya
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for an electric SUV that combines impressive range with genuine premium appeal? The Nissan Ariya could be exactly what you’re searching for. This sleek electric crossover represents Nissan’s bold step into the future, offering cutting edge technology and striking design in a practical family sized package. It’s the car for drivers who want to embrace electric motoring without compromising on style or substance.

From the moment you see it, the Ariya commands attention with its distinctive coupe like roofline and futuristic LED lighting signature. The interior feels genuinely premium, with high quality materials and an innovative dual screen setup that puts many luxury rivals to shame. Unlike some electric SUVs that feel compromised, the Ariya has been designed from the ground up as an EV, resulting in a spacious cabin and impressive driving refinement that sets it apart from competitors like the Kia EV6 or Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Driving the Ariya reveals its true character as a sophisticated and capable electric SUV. The smooth, silent acceleration and composed handling make both city driving and motorway cruising effortless. With up to 500km of range available and rapid charging capability, it removes the anxiety that still surrounds electric car ownership. While it commands a premium price, you’re investing in cutting edge technology, impressive build quality, and Nissan’s growing expertise in electric vehicle development that promises years of reliable, clean motoring ahead.

What's the Nissan Ariya Like to Drive?

The Nissan Ariya delivers smooth and refined electric performance that feels perfectly suited to modern driving needs. Available with either single motor front wheel drive or dual motor all wheel drive configurations, power outputs range from 214 to 389 horsepower depending on the variant you choose. Even the entry level model offers brisk acceleration with 0-60mph times of around 7.5 seconds, while the flagship e-4ORCE all wheel drive version can sprint to 60mph in just 5.1 seconds. The instant torque delivery makes overtaking and merging onto motorways feel effortless and confident.

Where the Ariya truly excels is in its driving refinement and everyday usability. The suspension setup strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control, soaking up road imperfections while maintaining composure through corners. The steering is light and precise at low speeds, perfect for urban manoeuvring, yet weights up nicely at higher speeds for a secure motorway feel. Road and wind noise are exceptionally well suppressed, creating a serene cabin environment that enhances the premium driving experience. This makes it an ideal long distance cruiser that never feels hurried or stressed.

How Comfortable Is the Nissan Ariya?

Step inside the Ariya and you’re immediately struck by the futuristic yet welcoming cabin design. The dashboard features a clean, minimalist layout dominated by twin 12.3 inch displays that house both the digital instruments and infotainment system. The materials used throughout feel genuinely premium, with soft touch surfaces, high quality plastics, and attractive wood effect trim creating an upmarket ambience. The haptic feedback buttons and capacitive controls add to the high tech feel, though they can take some getting used to initially.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable, offering excellent adjustment range and heated and ventilated options on higher trim levels. There’s generous space for front passengers, and the clever packaging made possible by the electric drivetrain creates a surprisingly roomy interior. The cabin is remarkably quiet, with excellent sound insulation that makes conversations easy even at motorway speeds. Standard equipment includes wireless phone charging, climate control, and ProPILOT semi autonomous driving assistance, while higher specifications add premium features like a Bose audio system and ambient lighting that enhance the sophisticated atmosphere further.

The Nissan Ariya succeeds in delivering a compelling electric SUV experience that combines futuristic design with genuine everyday practicality. Its standout interior quality, impressive range options, and refined driving dynamics make it a strong contender in the competitive premium electric SUV market. The technology integration feels genuinely advanced rather than gimmicky, and the build quality demonstrates Nissan’s commitment to electric vehicle excellence. The main considerations are the premium pricing and the fact that some rivals offer more boot space or faster charging speeds. However, the Ariya’s strengths lie in its overall balance and the confidence inspiring way it goes about its business. It’s a car that makes electric motoring feel mature and desirable rather than compromised. If you’re looking for an electric SUV that combines cutting edge technology with real world usability, the Ariya deserves serious consideration. It proves that the future of family motoring can be both exciting and practical.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Nissan Ariya Running Costs

As an electric vehicle, the Ariya offers compelling running cost advantages that become more apparent the more you drive. With electricity costing significantly less than petrol or diesel, your fuel costs could drop dramatically, especially if you can charge at home overnight using cheaper rate electricity. Public rapid charging costs vary, but even using motorway services, the cost per mile remains competitive with conventional SUVs. The Ariya qualifies for various government incentives and grants, plus you’ll save on congestion charges and enjoy free parking in many locations.

The initial purchase price positions the Ariya in the premium electric SUV segment, with prices starting from around £40,000 and rising to over £55,000 for fully loaded models. While this represents a significant investment, the total cost of ownership can be attractive when you factor in lower maintenance requirements, reduced servicing costs, and potential savings on company car tax. Finance options through Nissan’s PCP deals can make monthly payments more manageable, and the strong residual values predicted for electric vehicles should help protect your investment over time.

Nissan Ariya Practicality & Boot Space

For an electric SUV, the Ariya delivers impressive practical credentials that make it genuinely suitable for family use. The 466 litre boot offers decent space for weekly shopping or holiday luggage, though it’s not quite as generous as some rivals in this class. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo capacity when needed, and the flat floor design makes loading longer items straightforward. Inside the cabin, you’ll find useful storage compartments including a wireless charging pad, cup holders, and door pockets that accommodate everyday essentials.

Where the Ariya shows its strengths is in passenger accommodation, particularly in the rear seats where legroom and headroom are generous enough for adult passengers on longer journeys. The wide opening doors and relatively low loading height make access easy for all family members. For families considering the switch to electric motoring, the Ariya represents a practical choice that doesn’t require significant lifestyle compromises. Its dimensions and capabilities place it squarely in the sweet spot for those upgrading from conventional family SUVs, offering similar space and versatility with the benefits of electric driving that make it stand out among used Nissan cars.

The Nissan Ariya stands out in the rapidly expanding electric SUV market by successfully combining impressive technology with genuine real world usability. It wraps Nissan’s decades of electric vehicle expertise, sophisticated interior design, and confident road presence into a package that makes electric motoring feel effortless and desirable. While it may not be the cheapest option in its class, it delivers on the promise of premium electric driving without the compromises that affect some rivals.

You choose the Ariya because you want an electric SUV that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Its striking looks, refined ride quality, and comprehensive technology suite make every journey more enjoyable, whether you’re commuting through the city or heading off on weekend adventures. It’s perfectly positioned for families ready to embrace electric motoring, offering the space, range, and sophistication they expect. If you’re seeking an electric SUV that combines cutting edge innovation with proven reliability, the Ariya should definitely be on your shortlist, especially when considering the growing selection of electric vehicles under £50,000.