What Is the Nissan Ariya Like to Drive?

If you’re looking for a practical way to pass the fuel pump, look no further than the fully electric Nissan Ariya. Why the Ariya? With a style unto its own, space for everything, and performance that will make driving a great experience every day, the Ariya really stands out. Just like you, we were curious how our electric SUV drives, which was why we took a 2024 Ariya Platinum+ Dual Motor e-4ORCE to experience our beloved South Carolina.  

When you’re sizing it up, the Ariya is about the same size as our Rogue SUV, yet rides on a longer wheelbase. The angular design starts with a solid front end flanked by a set of slim LED headlamp units. You will notice the roofline has a fastback-like style towards the rear—almost like our Murano. The rear end is finished with a set horizontal taillight bar below the window line at the rear of the Ariya. The finishing touch on our tester is a set of 19-inch wheels with aerodynamic wheel covers. It gives the Platinum+ a stealthy, super-cool look. 

Inside, you get a wide flat screen that is split between a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The multi-function information display on the left provides comprehensive information that is also customizable. A large and informative head-up display helps keep your eyes on the road while augmenting the information display below. The infotainment touchscreen houses a host of information and entertainment options, including wireless smartphone connectivity. You will find a combination of tactile and haptic controls throughout the cabin. Overall, the Ariya’s interior is clean and tidy. 

The environmentally friendly leatherette seats offer plenty of comfort. Rear seat room is excellent with more than enough leg and headroom for a lot of different bodies. The center console is adjustable back-and-forth with buttons on the side. The cargo space is very generous. With the rear seats up, you have 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold them down, and cargo space expands to a generous 59.7 cubic feet.  

The e-4ORCE Dual Motor system consists of a power unit on each axle. Combined, you get the benefit of 389 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque delivering power to all four wheels through a direct drive transmission. An 87-kilowatt-hour battery sends energy to both motors, with an estimated range of 267 miles. If you recharge at a DC Fast Charging station, Nissan states that it would take 40 minutes to go from 10-80% state of charge. There are eight grades available, with either front- or all-wheel drive. Depending on the grade, you can achieve up to 304 miles on a full battery.  

Our driving experience in the 2024 Ariya was very solid across the capital area and beyond. The ride was well-grounded and smooth. The turning radius was very precise. We felt how well-behaved and controlled the Ariya was. 

To experience single-pedal driving, press the e-Step button on the center console. This system will send energy back to the battery pack through brake regeneration. All you do is step off the pedal when it is engaged towards a solid stop. 

If this sounds like something you would like to experience for yourself, Dick Smith Nissan of Lexington invites you to test drive a 2024 or 2025 Ariya. Contact us for a test drive soon.