Introduction:
The 2024 Nissan Ariya has become more appealing and competitive with its lower prices. Despite its slow charging speeds, the Ariya offers great value for an EV, with its standard front-wheel drive and loads of standard equipment. In addition, the Ariya stands out with its stylish and functional cabin, spacious interior, and impressive technology features. However, it does have some drawbacks, including limited cargo space and slower charging compared to its competitors.
Functional and Stylish Cabin:
The Ariya’s cabin is a standout feature, offering a combination of style, functionality, and quality. The minimalist aesthetic of the EV is complemented by physical buttons and stalks on the wheel, making it easy to operate. The touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly, and the widescreen display can be configured to show different types of information. The cabin also provides ample space, thanks to the flat, open floor in both the front and back seats. The use of high-quality materials, such as real leather and wood trim, gives the Ariya a premium feel. Even lower trim levels like the Ariya Empower feature fashionable accents and padded leatherette trim.
Spacious Interior and Cargo Space:
While the Ariya may not have as much sprawl-out space as some of its competitors, it still offers enough room for 6-footers to fit comfortably in both the front and back seats. The open floor design creates a sense of openness and provides extra storage space in the front. However, the cargo space with the back seat up is unremarkable compared to its rivals, measuring at 22.8 cubic feet. Nonetheless, real-world cargo space performance can vary, so it’s best not to dismiss the Ariya solely based on this figure.
Performance and Range:
The Ariya lineup offers a variety of power, range, and drivetrain options. The base Engage trim comes with a single motor on the front axle, producing 214 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It has a 66-kilowatt-hour battery and a range of 216 miles. The Venture+, Evolve+, and Empower+ trims feature a 238-horsepower motor and a 91-kWh battery pack, offering a range of either 304 or 289 miles. The Engage e-4ORCE adds a second motor on the rear axle, resulting in all-wheel drive and more performance. The other trim levels with e-4ORCE offer even more power and range. However, the Ariya’s charging speed is not its strongest suit, maxing out at 130 kW at a public DC fast charger. Its onboard charger can only manage 7.2 kW, meaning it charges slower at home unless you have a dedicated home charging station.
Driving Experience:
The Ariya delivers a refined driving experience, characterized by a quiet and well-damped ride. The steering is precise with natural weighting, and there is a Sport mode for a more engaging driving feel. However, the lack of one-pedal driving is a drawback. There is a B mode that increases regenerative braking, but it can be awkward when coming to a complete stop. Opting for all-wheel drive improves both performance and traction, especially with the e-4ORCE models that have torque vectoring capabilities. The front-wheel-drive Ariya may not have the same handling advantages as its rear-wheel-drive competitors, but it is better suited for poor weather conditions.
Safety Ratings and Driver Assistance Features:
The Ariya received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and was named a 2024 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and more. The ProPilot Assist 2.0 system, available on higher trim levels, provides hands-free driving on controlled access highways.
Conclusion:
The 2024 Nissan Ariya offers compelling value for an electric car. With its lower prices, stylish and functional cabin, and standard front-wheel drive, it outshines many of its competitors. The spacious interior, impressive technology features, and refined driving experience further enhance its appeal. However, potential buyers should consider its slower charging speeds and limited cargo space. Overall, the Ariya is a worthy contender in the affordable electric car market.