The 2024 Nissan Ariya EV is set to replace the once-popular Nissan Leaf EV in 2026, remaining virtually unchanged since its launch last year. Nissan claims the small crossover Ariya is the brand's most advanced and powerful all-electric model among its 14 offerings, featuring an eye-catching profile, vastly improved cabin, decent range, and cutting-edge technology.

The Ariya has garnered awards for reliability (Consumer Reports), driver satisfaction (J.D. Power), Editor's Pick (Newsweek and Car and Driver), and WardsAuto magazine's recognition for one of the 10 best interiors and propulsion systems. It also received the insurance industry's highest safety rating in crash testing, thanks to Nissan's Safety Shield 360, which includes advanced driver safety aids such as emergency braking, rear automatic braking, and cross-traffic alert.

Additional safety features include blind spot warnings on the heads-up display (HUD), dynamic cruise control settings, forward collision warning, parking sensors, and lane-keeping assistance.

Our test drive was the 2024 Ariya Platinum+ Dual Motor AWD, the top trim of eight, with the base front-wheel-drive Engage starting at $40,980, including the destination charge. Our Platinum+ model totaled $56,940, including three options: $1,360 for carpeted floor mats and a first aid kit, two-tone paint, and external puddle lights with rear illumination.

Ariya’s trims revolve around the battery’s power and the choice between front or all-wheel drive. Our tester featured a monochromatic exterior, raked windshield, five-spoke split-V wheels, rooftop aerodynamic shark fins and spoiler, and skinny LED lighting, achieving Nissan’s “Timeless Japanese Futurism” design goal.

With front and rear motors, our 91 kWh battery was programmed to use up to 87 kWh, offering a 267-mile range. Nissan estimated charging times at 40 minutes at 130 kWh and 90 minutes at 50 kWh, both from 10 to 80%. The Ariya can also charge at a 175 kWh fast charger and, beginning in 2025, at Tesla North America Charging Standard (NACS) charge ports.

The Ariya exhibited quick acceleration, sharp handling, and a comfortable ride while passing on the interstate or navigating city streets. With 19-inch all-season tires, it hugged curves tightly using e-4ORCE dual motor front and rear torque and individual wheel spin to maximize grip. Drive modes include Normal, Eco, Sport, and Snow.

The upscale interior featured a soft felt liner on the doors and dashboard, surrounding a pair of 12.3-inch side-by-side instrument cluster and center information display screens. Below the screens, haptic controls are wrapped in matte wood trim, and Nissan Connect (with a free trial period) was intuitive for researching features.

Our ProPilot 2.0 allowed hands-free driving under certain conditions but required the driver to remain alert. The flat floor can be used for storage or more legroom when the power-controlled center console slides backward.

Nappa leather-appointed seats were comfortable with Zero Gravity design in the front and ample space for two adults in the rear seats. Cargo space expands with 60/40 folding second-row seats, and the trunk can be accessed hands-free.

Additional features include extendable visors, a tire-mobility kit, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, and a 10-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The car also locks automatically while walking away without using the key fob.

Nissan currently has an above-average ranking for reliability. The redesigned 2026 Leaf is scheduled to be built in the UK for overseas markets, but not for the US. (Nissans are manufactured in Japan and are not eligible for US federal tax discounts).

LIKES: Peppy performance, stylish looks, smooth ride, handling, comfortable cabin, ample technology for convenience and performance, safety features
DISLIKES: Price, lower mileage range compared to some competitors, no complimentary scheduled maintenance

BOTTOM LINE: The Ariya represents a major improvement for Nissan in the highly competitive small EV market niche.

FACT FILE
2024 Nissan Ariya Platinum+ Dual Motor AWD
Base price with destination fee: $55,580 (as tested $56,940)
Curb weight: 5,507 lbs.
Wheelbase: 109.3 inches
Length: 182.9 inches
Width: 74.8 inches
Engine specs: 87 kWh usable battery, front/rear motors
Horsepower: 389 hp
Torque: 442 lb.-ft.
Transmission: Single speed
EPA rating: 93 city, 87 highway (miles per gallon equivalent)
Range: 267 miles, 100% charged
Performance: 0-60 in 5 seconds