Let’s be honest. When buying a new electric car, there are a million options, and it can be very confusing. So many numbers, so many options. I’ve been there, too, poring over spec sheets and battery sizes and wondering if that extra bit of range really is worth the cost. The market is awash with claims of revolutionary technology and transformative performance, so it’s hard to know what to make of all the hype. It’s a big decision, and the fear of making a mistake is real for a lot of would-be buyers.

Against this cacophony, the Nissan Ariya bodes well as an intriguing proposition. This eye-catching electric SUV has turned heads with its sharp, coupé-type body and contemporary looks. But for now, the Ariya isn’t just another pretty face; it embodies Nissan’s extensive expertise in the electric vehicle arena, distilled into a sophisticated and practical solution. The question is not whether the Ariya is a good car, but which Ariya is really right for you, the cheaper 63kWh front-wheel-drive Engage, or the powerful, all-wheel-drive e-4ORCE with the larger 87kWh battery? After owning both, I can tell you they handle quite differently. For this review, I will guide you through the road feel of each of these models. We’ll go through some real-world driving, comfort, servicing and running costs and everything in between, beyond the spec sheets. My hope is they help you in some way, whether it’s just a better understanding of the best Ariya for your lifestyle, budget and driving needs, or just confidence to know you’re able to make an informed decision.

A Quick Recap of the Nissan Ariya

• Explore a sleek, coupé-style electric SUV with a contemporary vibe
• Select from the 63 kWh Engage FWD and the 87 kWh e-4ORCE AWD versions
• Get up to 251 miles of range with the 63 kWh battery or up to 329 miles with the larger 87 kWh battery
• Use speedfeeding from 20% to 80% in about 35 minutes
• Enjoy a premium cabin with dual 12.3-inch screens and intelligent, high-quality materials
• Benefit from practical features such as a generous, flat-floor interior and a flexible boot area

How the Nissan Ariya Handles the Road

So, let’s get right to it: the Nissan Ariya definitely doesn’t feel like just another electric vehicle on the road. How different its core variants are becomes immediately clear even during the briefest of test drives, with each exhibiting a unique personality catering to different driving needs. Whether ledge hopping down tight city streets or stretched-out cruising on a blue motorway, how the Ariya performs is part of the attraction.

I was first bowled over by how calm and composed the 63 kWh Engage version was when I took it into town. When you pull away from the traffic lights, there’s no drama, just a smooth delivery of instant torque that makes city driving look effortless. Press the gas, and you quietly roll forward with assurance. This is where the e-Pedal Step really comes into its own. It supports one-pedal driving, just press to accelerate and lift up to start regenerative braking, which slows the vehicle down in a very smooth way. The system helps alleviate a significant amount of fatigue from having to constantly switch between the accelerator and brake pedals in stop-and-go traffic, transforming the stressful commute into something far more civil. When it comes to parking, the Ariya makes what can be an unnerving chore all too easy. Visibility is surprisingly good for a coupé-style SUV, and the help of sensors and high-definition cameras makes even the tightest parking spaces seem manageable. But what about the all-wheel-drive e-4ORCE? In an urban setting, it has an incredibly low and solid feel. The steering is a bit heavier, and the system provides insane grip, but for pretty much all city activities, both versions are similarly really easy to get along with. It is on the motorway that the benefits of the bigger 87 kWh battery in the e-4ORCE really become apparent. On a long trip, range anxiety is not a problem, and you can concentrate on the road. The Ariya shines as a highway cruiser, with wind and road noise well-muffled, resulting in a peaceful cabin ambience. The seats continue to feel comfortable and supportive even hours into a journey and stop the usual aches and pains associated with long drives.

Credit the ProPILOT Assist system for much of the value that I found in the motorway-run part of my tests. This sophisticated driver-aid system pairs adaptive cruise control with lane-centring technology, reducing the fatigue associated with boring motorway journeying. Although it is not a full self-driving system, it greatly reduces fatigue on longer hikes by controlling pace and spacing with fluid precision. The 63 kWh Engage certainly holds its own on the motorway, but you may find yourself mentally adding up whether you have enough charge to get you to your destination or the next charging stop. By comparison, e-4ORCE has more power for confident overtakes and feels more settled and stable at high speed, a sense that is boosted when the weather turns, as the all-wheel drive system gives absolute reassurance on wet roads.

• Simplify city driving with the intuitive e-Pedal Step for one-pedal control
• Navigate tight spaces effortlessly using advanced sensors and parking cameras
• Reduce long-distance fatigue with the ProPILOT Assist system on motorways
• Experience a serene cabin environment thanks to superior noise insulation
• Enjoy a smooth, refined ride with the instant torque of the Engage model
• Gain superior grip and stability in all conditions with the e-4ORCE all-wheel drive

Ariya’s Dynamic Drive: Power and Poise on the Road

Performance is more than the numbers on a spec sheet; it’s about what a car feels like and how it responds in real life. If you value a quick getaway from a dead stop, or you just happen to live on a few winding country roads, the driving dynamics are one of the most important parts of a vehicle. #Nissan Ariya caters to two different rides for the customers in this sense. How they feel behind the wheel is where the two best-selling conventional variants really diverge, catering to very different priorities and driving styles. The 217-horsepower front-wheel-drive (Engage) model has a performance that fits right in with your daily needs. It has 218 laow as7hp for most situations of power. When you are moving off a roundabout or joining a busy road, the acceleration is predictable and consistent. The acceleration is gradual and controlled, as opposed to the sometimes abrupt ‘kick’ from behind experienced in other EVs. It has a clean, polished look that gives you confidence without intimidating you, something that is reassuring to those new to EV performance. This configuration is perfect for drivers who want a comfortable and efficient ride rather than full-blown speed, as it delivers a driving experience that’s both engaging and easy to handle.

Then there is the e-4ORCE. This is a huge jump in this all-wheel drive variant across all the performance indices. It has a dual-motor powertrain that enables it to produce 306 horsepower and makes a 0-62 mph time in less than 6 seconds. The difference is instantly apparent. Step on the gas and the Ariya scoots ahead with a jolt that’s genuinely grin-inducing. It’s not just fast, it’s fun. This extra power changes the character of the car, so the motorway feels less like a battle and more like a surrendered, determined overtake. On twisty roads, the e-4ORCE really shines. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system seamlessly adjusts the amounts of torque it sends to the front and rear axles the resulting are composed, even somewhat athletic handling. It corners on rails, suppressing the body roll you’d expect from an SUV and without ever making you feel like you’re driving end-over-nose.

The superiority of the e-4ORCE system becomes even more apparent when conditions are less than ideal. On a wet-morning drive, it was very tenacious. This ensures a grip that gives you full confidence, even on slick or muddy ground where a normal front-wheel drive car could have a hard time. It never felt like it wanted to leap out from under me, just solidly planted to the road. For those drivers who value performance, reside in regions with difficult weather conditions (no disrespect intended), or just like a little more fun with their daily drive, the difference in capability and feel is night and day. The e-4ORCE takes Ariya from a pleasant SUV ride to a genuinely satisfying driver’s vehicle.

• Achieve a balanced drive with the Engage model’s 217 horsepower for smooth, refined daily commuting
• Experience thrilling acceleration with the e-4ORCE model’s 306 horsepower, hitting 0-62 mph in under six seconds
• Navigate winding roads with confidence thanks to the sporty, responsive handling
• Maintain superior traction in wet or muddy conditions with the advanced e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system
• Execute decisive overtakes on the highway with the instant power of the dual-motor setup
• Enjoy a stable, planted feel at speed, inspiring confidence on every journey

Ariya’s Cabin Comfort: A Deep Dive into Space and Practicality

We don’t just drive our cars; we live with them. A vehicle must fit into our lives, day to day and in all manner of special occasions, from family holidays to weekly shopping runs and the occasional trip for bulky flat-pack furniture. The real test of a car’s design is how it copes with such mundane necessities. When practicality and interior space are at stake, the Nissan Ariya proves to be a well-thought-out electric 2.0 vehicle, which places driver and passengers first.

The Ariya’s interior can be summed up in one word: open. This spirit of openness is no accident. It’s a direct consequence of the purpose-built electric vehicle platform, which has allowed the inclusion of a completely flat floor. Without a transmission tunnel in the way, passengers in the front and back seats can enjoy plenty of legroom for stretching out and relaxing. This concept redefines the cabin into a lounge-like environment. Up front, the minimalist instrument panel, paired with the intelligent design, adds to the feeling of openness. Smart touches, such as the soft-touch surfaces and separate climate zones, add a premium touch. I will say my teenage passengers in the back, who never ever give many thumbs up, gave a rare one for the legroom and comfort of the seats. Technology is certainly a highlight, spearheaded by two large 12.3-inch digital displays that look as though they were borrowed from a concept car. The interface is simple and easy to understand; you will be ready to go within minutes, not weeks. But one of the more clever tricks is the sliding centre console. This is no gimmick. I pushed it back as I was on a long drive to add floor space deep in the front and easily stow a rucksack up between the seats. On another amusing occasion, I slid it forward to make it more cockpit-like and bring the controls closer at hand. This flexibility is incredibly useful, allowing you to adapt the room to your immediate needs, whether a solo journey or a busy family trip.

Another important factor to consider is boot space, and the Ariya delivers in a small way, depending on the model. If you choose the front-wheel-drive Engage, you get a whopping 466 litres of space. It will comfortably hold a large pram, a number of suitcases or a full complement of sports gear. However, taking the all-wheel-drive e-4ORCE option means that you have to give up some of that space for the extra rear motor, so the capacity drops to 408 litres. It’s still a good amount of space, but families who often pack the car to the brim for holidays might find the added capacity of the front-wheel-drive version more to their liking.

• Enjoy a spacious, lounge-like cabin thanks to the completely flat floor
• Customise your driving environment with the innovative sliding centre console
• Access vehicle information and entertainment effortlessly via the dual 12.3-inch screens
• Maximise storage with 466 litres of boot space in the front-wheel-drive models
• Accommodate passengers comfortably with generous rear legroom
• Create an open, airy atmosphere with the minimalist dashboard and premium materials

Ariya Ownership: Analysing the Running Costs

Electric vehicles are usually said to save you money, and the Nissan Ariya is no exception, as long as you play the game of ownership correctly. Knowing the true costs of charging, insurance, and long-term maintenance is essential to appreciating the financial benefits. The prices vary widely on the 63 kWh Engage vs 87 kWh e-4ORCE versions, so choose what fits your budget and driving pattern.

I’ve charged both at home and on the public network, and there is no doubt that home charging is more cost-effective. Charging the Engage model overnight and by taking an economy electricity rate, the cost of a full battery recharge can be less than ten bucks. That gives plenty of go for a few days of commuting or local errands. Although the larger 87 kWh battery in the e-4ORCE is a bit more costly to fill up, you get significantly more range, which is gold for those who take regular long journeys. For everyone, range in the real world is dependent on factors including weather (it’s easy to get close to the official figures when driving in summer; predictable that efficiency will be lower in colder winter weather). Insurance is also a key component in the cost of ownership. I learned that the Engage is in insurance group 27, so it does produce quarts that are quite reasonable for an electric SUV of its size and type. As expected, the more potent and pricier e-4ORCE variant is classified under a different bracket, group 40. A clean driving record is going to help keep premiums under control, but it’s always a good idea to shop around for quotes before making a final decision. On the bright side, Nissan’s warranty is a whole lot of reassurance. The car itself is covered for three years or 60,000 miles, and the battery is covered for a comforting eight years or 100,000 miles. Nissan promises the battery will maintain at least 70 per cent of its original capacity over this time frame, effectively eliminating long-term battery degradation from the list of what you need to worry about as an owner.

• Minimise your running costs by charging at home on an economy tariff
• Benefit from a comprehensive three-year/60,000-mile vehicle warranty
• Drive with confidence knowing the battery is covered for eight years/100,000 miles
• Secure reasonable insurance premiums with the lower group 27 rating for the Engage model
• Plan your budget effectively by understanding the different insurance costs for each variant

Who is the Nissan Ariya for? Let’s Be Honest

You’ve got questions. I had the same ones.

• Commuting or city living: The 63 kWh Engage. Lots of range, easy to park, and costs less up front. Get stress-free electric driving.
• Family life: Both trims work, but I’d recommend FWD for max boot space. More than enough space to keep everyone happy. Feels safe, too.
• Mile munchers: Do lots of motorway runs or long commutes? The 87 kWh battery is what you need. Less time worrying about planning a route to charge, more time actually driving.
• Performance taste: The e-4ORCE (87 kWh) is for you. Fast. Feels premium. Best for those who like driving. Among BMWs, this is the most rewarding one to drive, especially if you enjoy a spirited drive.

Why the Ariya Deserves Your Attention

After driving it for a long time, the Nissan Ariya is a well-thought-out, solid electric SUV. It matches comfort, spaciousness and smart design in one compelling package. Each model lives up to the ideal of a car you can use every day, but each one is a different driving experience. This isn’t a car based on empty, hollow promises; it’s a practical, modern, and fun-to-drive vehicle that just works, and that makes it stand out in a crowded market.

63 kWh Engage. If you drive mostly in traffic and run errands, then the 63 kWh Engage trim is a great, straightforward pick. It has sufficient range for ordinary use, is easy to park and has a relatively low initial cost, making for a put-you-at-ease introduction to electric driving. For family types or load-hauliers who routinely rely on the most cargo space they can get, the front-wheel-drive 87 kWh battery option represents the best of both worlds; it’s the longest distances you can travel (unless you want to drop six grand for the 111 kWh option), and has the most boot space.

When it comes to the drivers who want performance, the clear winner is the e-4ORCE. It provides a surprisingly crisp and lively push from its tail, feeling safe and sure-footed in rainy conditions and quick in all other circumstances. Owing to its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, the Ariya becomes a vehicle that is really fun to drive on a curvy road. In the end, the decision between them is a matter of what you value the most.

My advice is to try them out yourself. There’s reading about reviews, then there’s feeling how a car reacts to your inputs. I invite you to test drive both the Engage and e-4ORCE models. Find the one that fits you best in terms of lifestyle, budget, and desire to drive. The Ariya has a way of presenting its case on the road.

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