2023 Nissan Ariya EV: An Honest Review
A new leaf for Nissan?
From £39,645
Hello, folks, and welcome to my review of the highly anticipated 2023 Nissan Ariya, specifically in its advanced trim. This version comes equipped with a 63-kilowatt-hour battery and boasts a claimed WLTP range of 250 miles. For those who seek an even longer range, there's an 87-kilowatt-hour variant that promises over 300 miles on a single charge. In this review, I'll delve into various aspects of the Ariya, including its performance, design, and usability, while also addressing some of its limitations.
Performance and Range
Let's kick things off by talking about performance. The Nissan Ariya in its advanced trim offers a 0-62mph time of seven and a half seconds, delivering 300 Newton meters of torque and a maximum speed of 100 miles per hour; it's no slouch in the performance department but nor is it a world beater. However, it's worth noting that there are faster electric SUVs on the market, such as the Tesla Model Y and the Hyundai Ioniq 5.
One area where the Ariya could use some improvement is its charging capabilities. Despite the switch to CCS charging ports, it can only charge at a maximum of 130 kilowatts. This puts it at a disadvantage compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y and the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which offer faster charging options. This might be a drawback for those who rely on rapid charging during long journeys.
Usability and Practicality
For families and those with practicality in mind, the Nissan Ariya offers a decent amount of interior space and cargo capacity. The rear cabin is particularly spacious, with an abundance of legroom that rivals even luxury sedans. However, the cargo space, though reasonable at 466 liters, falls slightly short when compared to some of its direct competitors, such as the Tesla Model Y.
Nissan has added a thoughtful touch to the cargo area by including a removable false floor. This feature allows you to create compartments for your luggage or simply remove it for added space. While it's not class-leading, the Ariya's cargo space is versatile and functional.
Design and Aesthetics
One area where the Nissan Ariya truly stands out is its design. In an era where many cars can be accused of having generic and uninspiring designs, the Ariya bucks the trend with its distinctive and polarizing appearance. Whether you love it or find it challenging, there's no denying that it grabs your attention. Nissan deserves credit for taking a bold approach to design with the Ariya.
Moving to the interior, the cabin of the Ariya is a pleasant surprise. It marks a significant improvement for Nissan in terms of interior quality and design. The use of high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and a well-thought-out layout contribute to a premium feel. The integration of haptic touch controls into the dash is particularly well executed, adding a touch of sophistication to the cabin.
The infotainment system, while not class-leading, is a significant leap forward compared to older Nissan models. It features a touchscreen interface that is intuitive and responsive. The inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay is a welcome addition, making it easy to connect your smartphone. However, some users may find the screen's responsiveness to be slightly laggy at times.
Ride and Comfort
On the road, the Nissan Ariya offers a comfortable and effortless driving experience. The steering is notably light, which may please some drivers seeking ease of maneuverability, but it can feel a bit numb at times. The suspension generally handles bumps well, although it can become less forgiving on rougher surfaces. Opting for the 20-inch wheels may result in a firmer ride.
One aspect where the Ariya could see improvement is sound insulation. While it's generally quiet inside, especially considering it's an electric vehicle, road noise from other traffic can be more noticeable than expected on highways. This is an area where competitors like Tesla have excelled in providing a quieter cabin environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2023 Nissan Ariya represents a significant step forward for Nissan as they enter the electric SUV market. It offers a compelling package with its unique design, improved interior quality, and decent performance. However, it faces stiff competition from other established electric SUVs in its price range.
The range and charging capabilities, while adequate for many drivers, may not meet the expectations of those who prioritize long-distance travel. Additionally, the noise insulation, though acceptable, could be better.
Ultimately, the Nissan Ariya is a commendable effort from the automaker, showcasing their commitment to innovation and design. It's a vehicle that deserves consideration for those looking to make the switch to electric SUVs. However, with strong contenders in the market, potential buyers should thoroughly evaluate their specific needs and compare the Ariya with its competitors before making a decision.
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