Nissan has introduced a new all-wheel drive version of its Ariya electric SUV, called the e-4orce. This latest version utilizes two motors instead of one (originally debuted as a front-wheel drive model last fall) to enable all-wheel drive capabilities. This week Torque News is reviewing this new e-4orce model and exploring its features and performance.
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Long announced and marketed at the end of 2022, the Nissan Ariya is finally available. And Nissan quickly upgraded it from a front-wheel drive, offering also the e-4Force package which is Nissan's way of referring to the four-wheel drive.
As the 2023 Nissan Ariya electric SUV hits the market, we were given the opportunity to take it for a spin in everyday driving conditions. I put this four-wheel drive, 389 horsepower version with its impressive 87 kWh battery to the test in the busy roads of Charlotte. To my surprise, the car consumed at about 93 City MPGe / 87 Highway MPGe / 90 Combined MPGe, offering a range of about 265 miles per single charge. The EPA range for 2023 Ariya Venture+ up to 304 miles, which I think is an impressive feat even without looking at the econometer. Remember, that just like the gas or hybrid cars the actual range of electric cars also may vary based on driving conditions.
I was also delighted by the quality of driving pleasure of the nissan Ariya, thanks in part to the car's suspension system, which expertly filters out imperfections in the road without compromising its dynamic behavior. I think the 2023 Nissan Ariya is a well-made, premium electric SUV, boasting the quality of manufacture and finish that is synonymous with "made in Japan."
Nissan pioneered the electric vehicle niche with its compact LEAF. This EV came to democratize the technology at the beginning of the previous decade. But, we have to face the facts, Nissan has lost its head start for a few years while all the car brands are flooding the market with their own electrification strategies.
The Ariya therefore becomes very important for Nissan, which absolutely must make up for lost time. Especially in the compact SUV category where a few models are already making their mark, such as the Volkswagen ID.4, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Kia EV6 or the Toyota bZ4X / Subaru Solterra tandem. Let's not forget the Tesla Model Y either. By the way, also see here how the 2023 Nissan Ariya's specs compare with the Kia EV6.
The automotive division therefore presented the new variant of the Ariya equipped with e-4orce all-wheel drive. Yes, this model is more expensive than the two-wheel drive one, but on the other hand it is a little more equipped to tame winters if you are driving in the northern parts of the United States, Canada or in mountainous areas.
2023 Nissan Ariya's Available Trims and Pricing
The 2023 Nissan Ariya is a highly anticipated addition to the electric SUV market, featuring Nissan's updated ProPilot 2.0 driver-assistance system that debuted on the Japanese-market Nissan Skyline sedan. One of the key selling points of the Ariya is its impressive driving range of up to 304 miles, but this is only achievable with the front-wheel-drive configuration and the larger 87.0-kWh battery pack.
The Ariya is available in nine different trims, each with its own unique features and price point. The entry-level Engage model starts at $44,525, which is slightly higher than the Leaf and other affordable EVs but lower than the base price of the Model Y. However, the Engage model comes with a smaller battery pack and a lower estimated driving range of 216 miles, which may not be sufficient for some drivers.
For those who prioritize range, the Venture+ trim is the way to go, offering the longest driving range among the Ariya's four trim levels at 304 miles per charge. This model is priced at $48,525, which is still relatively affordable compared to other electric SUVs on the market. Other trims include the Evolve+, Engage+ e-4ORCE, Empower+, Evolve+ e-4ORCE, Premiere, and Platinum+ e-4ORCE, with prices ranging from $51,525 to $61,525.
As you can see these trims make the Ariya a competitive choice in the electric SUV market. Keep in mind that it's important for buyers to consider their driving habits and priorities when selecting a trim level to ensure they get the most value for their money.
The Exterior Design of the 2023 Ariya
The Nissan Ariya's exterior design is a fusion of both traditional Nissan design elements and new, modern touches that set it apart from other SUVs. The front of the vehicle features a V-shaped grille that acts as a front panel, with LED daytime running lights that follow the panel, and the Kumiko pattern, which is also found inside the vehicle. The LED headlights overhang the daytime running lights, giving the front a distinctive look. The charging hatch is located on the front right wing, making it easily accessible for drivers.
The Ariya's profile is very similar to the Rogue exterior profile in terms of exterior dimensions, but it's lower and sharper, giving it a more coupe-like appearance. The fenestration tapers towards the rear, ending where the rear window begins. A spoiler over the rear window and a single position light at the base of the steeply forward-sloping window both play an aerodynamic role.
The designers of Ariya also gave the vehicle pronounced wheel arches, large 19-inch wheels, and a tangle of lines near the D-pillar.
The Nissan Ariya's appearance is instantly recognizable, thanks to its unique design elements. The two hockey sticks found at the front under the headlights create a strong visual signature that sets it apart from other SUVs, both gas and electric. The exterior finish of the vehicle is also of high quality, marking a significant leap forward compared to Nissan products from just a few years ago.
While the Ariya may appear bulky, it's actually similar in size to other electric compact SUVs, such as the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Toyota bZ4X, and Volkswagen ID.4. Overall, the Nissan Ariya's exterior design is a successful combination of modern and traditional elements, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a unique, stylish electric SUV.
Interior of the Ariya
The 2023 Nissan Ariya boasts a well-designed and spacious interior that offers comfort and convenience for its passengers. One of the standout features of the interior is the wide opening of the doors, making it easy for passengers to take a seat in the vehicle. The seats hold occupants firmly in place and offer good comfort, even during long journeys. The absence of a link between the dashboard and console creates a feeling of clearance, accentuated by excellent visibility from all angles, including with a camera mirror.
The dashboard layout is clean and uncluttered, with two 12-inch screens joined together in a black applique placed on the dashboard. The instrumentation is similar to other Nissan products, with the tachometer replaced by an energy flow monitor. The central 12-inch infotainment screen presents information in the form of tiles arranged on several pages. The quality of finish is good, and the haptic feedback buttons hidden in a wooden applique under the central screen are a nice touch. There are also a few old-fashioned buttons arranged to the left of the steering wheel.
The rear doors are very large and open practically at 90 degrees, providing easy access to a bench seat that offers plenty of clearance for all measurements, especially with a flat floor and a seat high enough to provide comfort. The trunk volume starts at 646 liters and can reach 1690 liters once the bench seat is folded down. The interior of the Ariya exudes a feeling of quality that is comparable to Infiniti models, making it stand out from other recent Nissan vehicles.
The front dashboard features a new curved panel with two 12-inch screens diagonally positioned to entertain front-row passengers. The central touchscreen offers menus and functions accessible by swiping from right to left. The steering wheel, inspired by the most recent Nissan design, has a two-spoke design with a flattened base and is multifunctional. The woodgrain panel beneath the center line of the dashboard conceals air vents and incorporates haptic air conditioning controls, which are surprisingly pleasant to use. The center console serves as an adjustable armrest, and passengers in the second row can move it forward or backward. There is also a small storage space under the padded armrest.
Despite its shape, an average-sized adult can fit comfortably in the second row, with the bench seat offering adjustability and plush cushioning. The panoramic roof does not interfere too much, and the trunk offers a decent volume, although it may not be the largest in the industry. As you can see, the 2023 Nissan Ariya offers a well-designed, spacious, and comfortable interior with many thoughtful features that enhance the driving experience.
Motor and Power
The 2023 Nissan Ariya is making a big impression in the electric car market. The Ariya has been garnering attention for its impressive power and motor, which is a departure from Nissan's previous electric car, the Leaf. Unlike the Leaf, which only has front-wheel drive, the Ariya offers an optional all-wheel drive through a dual-front/rear-electric-motor configuration, drawing from features developed in other Nissan models such as the GT-R sports car's torque-split system.
The front-wheel drive model of the Ariya apparently hits 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, which is respectable, but the e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive version is even quicker. With an estimated 0-60 mph time of 5.0 seconds, the e-4ORCE is on par with higher-end electric vehicles. This impressive acceleration is due in part to the contribution of the second synchronous AC electric motor installed on the rear axle. The e-4ORCE offers in our Platinum+ trim a 335 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque with the standard battery, while the extended-range battery boosts power to 389 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque.
While the Ariya's power and motor are certainly noteworthy, it's the SUV's calm, stable ride that sets it apart from competitors. The Ariya offers a smooth ride that will likely please most buyers, though it may lack the sporty nature that driving enthusiasts crave.
Ariya's charging capabilities are also impressive, with the SUV able to regain 10 to 80 percent of its energy in 35 minutes (63 kWh) or 40 minutes (87 kWh) using a Level 3 charging station with a charging capacity of 130 kW. However, it's important to note that the recharge capacity may decrease in the winter.
Ariya is a promising addition to the electric car market, offering impressive power and motor options, a smooth ride, and fast charging capabilities. With its sleek design and range of features, it's clear that the Ariya is set to make waves in the world of electric cars.
The Drive and a Final Word about Nissan Ariya
The 2023 Nissan Ariya seems to be a vehicle that has been developed with a clear focus on comfort and stability. After a week-long test drive I note that the car's comfort is one of its strongest selling points, putting it ahead of its competitors. The all-wheel drive also impressed with its overall stability and efficiency, making the Ariya an attractive choice for those who value a smooth and stable ride.
It is worth noting that the Ariya is a new vehicle, and longer-term reliability is yet to be established. Therefore, it would be wise to wait and see how the car performs before making any final recommendations.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Ariya is its power, particularly in Sport mode. The e-4orce version catapults the vehicle forward effectively, making it a thrilling driving experience. Despite its weight, the Ariya remains stable during turns, requiring only a few interventions of the steering wheel. The steering is slightly heavier in Sport mode, which may suit some drivers. Unless the driving situation demands otherwise, I always prefer driving in the ECO mode to save energy and drive more economically.
The all-wheel drive system on the Ariya is pretty flexible and agile. This feature gives brand strategists hope that the Ariya e-4orce will attract more consumers to Nissan showrooms. However, the price of the Ariya is quite steep, even with the two government rebates it is eligible for. Nissan may need to find a way to offer a utility vehicle at a lower price to convince consumers to choose the Ariya over its competitors. Having said, I personally consider Ariya to be more beautiful and appealing inside and outside than the Tesla Model Y. A friend of mine who just bought a Tesla Model Y agreed with me when we parked our cars next to each other and reviewed them comparing similarities and differences.
In conclusion, the 2023 Nissan Ariya is an impressive vehicle that offers a comfortable, stable ride and impressive power. The Ariya is a new vehicle, so longer-term reliability is yet to be established. Nonetheless, it has the potential to attract more consumers to Nissan showrooms, particularly those who value comfort and stability.
What are your thoughts about the new 2023 Nissan Ariya? Let us know please in the comments section below.
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebok, Linkedin and Youtube.
Reference: Nissan News, Car and Driver, Car and Driver, Auto123, RPMWeb.
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