It was the middle of July last year when Nissan originally unveiled the Ariya and yet it’s only now the electric SUV is making its debut in the United States. Arriving for the 2023 model year, the sister model of the Renault Megane E-Tech by riding on the same CMF-EV platform is available in North America with a choice between three front-wheel-drive models and a range-topping, all-wheel-drive version.
The most affordable version is the Ariya Venture+ FWD priced from $45,950 with a single electric motor developing 238 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Like the more expensive trim levels, it gets a liquid-cooled, lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 87 kWh. You’ll want to stick to this one for the longest range available as only this model promises to cover up to an estimated 300 miles.
Step up to the Evolve+ FWD from $48,950 and you get exactly the same powertrain, but more goodies such as an electric liftgate, LED fog lights, power panoramic moonroof, automatic windscreen wipers, eight-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, and wireless smartphone charging. This upper-spec trim also adds an electric glovebox, Intelligent Rear View Mirror, and underfloor trunk storage. Bear in mind this trim level lowers the range to 285 miles since the added kit increases the vehicle’s weight.
Up next is the Ariya Premiere FWD with the same electric motor and a 285-mile range. Priced at $53,450, it adds even more content, varying from ProPILOT Assist 2.0 and ProPILOT Park to illuminated side sills and 19-inch alloys with aero-optimized covers. The Nissan Ariya in this configuration also comes with a fancy “Premiere” emblem and multi-color LED ambient lighting.
The range-topping Ariya Platinum+ e-4ORCE AWD (from $58,950) has the most power but the least range. The dual-motor model with AWD packs a healthy 389 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque while its 87-kWh battery will last for as much as 265 miles between charges. It comes nicely equipped with Nappa leather, a 10-speaker sound system, and a hands-free tailgate.
The list with equipment for the all-paw Ariya also includes a memory function for the front passenger seat, 20-inch wheels, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel (with memory function), Active Sound Control, and electric mirrors with memory function and LED turn signals.
Nissan is taking orders on its official website in the US and says the first 10,000 reservations made before the end of January 2022 will come bundled with two years of free EVgo membership as well as $500 in charging credits, which represent the equivalent of about 5,000 miles of driving the Ariya Venture+
It’s going to be a long wait as the first customer deliveries in the US are scheduled to commence next fall, with FWD models having priority over the AWD-equipped Ariya.
Source: Nissan USA
