Nissan Ariya is Plush, Hushed and Flush With Features

[@andrewhillman9632]

Having driven this trim for the last 12 months I can verify this review is spot on. The Ariya impressed a friend with a dual motor model Y, it offers a better ride and is bank vault solid. It really could be badged as an Infiniti.

[@anthonyc8499]

The pricing and quality makes this a hard buy as a Nissan badge but they could have pulled it off as an Infinity.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Agreed about the ride quality. The Y tends to ride like a truck.

[@alexsummaria371]

Always such high quality videos

[@geft]

I've had my Platinum+ Ariya for a little over a year now and love it! It fixed pretty much everything I didn't like about my Tesla Model 3. My only disappointments are that the audio system is not very good compared to the Tesla premium audio system, the software can be a bit buggy and the inability to set a charge limit. Hopefully the last two issues will be solved by a future software update. No software updates so far in the 13 months I've owned it. :( I also find the ProPilot Assist 2.0 much better for my commute. My Tesla Model 3 with FSD had a nasty habit of trying to swerve me off the road at a particular spot in my commute. It ended up being more stressful to monitor the FSD than to just drive myself. Thanks for another excellent review. You reviews are definitely some of the best out there.

[@LalanthaPerera-ns1ue]

This is one electric vehicle that I am highly impressed with! And I like it in this specification! Nice review Mr. Voelk!

[@steveallwine1443]

I absolutely love my 2023 Ariya Platium+. Having daily driven 4 different EV’s over the past 13 years, it’s almost perfect for me, my wife and my two kids. I’m glad the review recognize that some of us want comfort, quiet and a little bit of performance. Driving dynamics, especially around Ballard, doesn’t exactly call for spirited driving.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

So when I see an Ariya near Salt and Straw or Hotcakes I'll know it's you?

[@sajiantony7473]

I appreciate Tom provided a review which matched my experience with Ariya. I own a Platinum Ariya from May 2023. Have been very happy with it so far. I recently relocated to San Diego from North NJ and I drove this car across the country mainly stopping at Wal-mart EA chargers (and staying hotels in the night). The charging curve is very good and I observed that the charging rate was faster than a Rivian and a Lyriq who were charging next to me at some points during the trip. Ariya's Propilot Assist 2.0 took care of my driving needs 80% of the highways. Interior is quiet. The trip was super comfortable. When I reached San Diego, the miles/kwh for the entire trip was showing 3.4 which translates to 296 miles per full charge. By the way I haven't visited the Nissan service center after I purchased this vehicle (same goes with my Nissan Leaf 2023 SV+ as well).

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Thanks for taking the time to offer up info. Good to know.

[@leehamsterg]

Welcome back, spokesmodel Cory! You should get shots of him wedging into this and other vehicles.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

You’re right. Missed opportunity.

[@Supernaut2000]

I have a 2017 Leaf 30kWh battery and the quality of it, carried to the Ariya bespokes that it will probably be my next EV in a few years time.

[@darienborges4980]

GREAT VIDEO TOM!!!! I got an Ariya Engage+ E4force three weeks ago to replace my Tesla Model 3. Overall I am loving the car. The range is better than a regular Model 3 and it drives great and love the interior (the accent lighting is a nice touch) My biggest complaint is that Andriod Auto or Apple Car Play are no where near as responsive or intuitive as Teslas system. Additionaly, Nissan's own interface is nothing to write home about. While Nissan does allegedly offer over the air updates, I have read over and over again that the updates are non existant. The car is beautifull and a head turner, but if it really wants to compete in the EV market it needs better sofware and faster charging. With that said, I am very happy with my car. Also, while Ariya doenst qualify for the federal rebate, Nissan dealers are giving great lease specials on them so definately worth checking out.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Tesla doesn't have AA or CP though, right? And yes, Tesla has a snappier interface but I tend to look at a vehicle as a whole package and let views decide what most important to them.

[@darienborges4980]

@@DrivenCarReviews Yup, no AA or CP. For someone coming from a Tesla there is a bit of a learning curve with the Ariya. But I agree, overall it is a great car.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

@@darienborges4980 Switching from brands usually means a learning curve. It's something we writers seldom cover.

[@CC86CA]

Another excellent video! Always high quality content.

[@MinhNguyen-bz2pd]

Wow. Very good reviews. We just got the Platinum and it is good 😅

[@michaelgarvin8621]

Good review!! 👍👍. Keep up the great work! 🙂

[@rabeahkarram9689]

I bought this over having the ability to choose anything I want. I can confirm this vehicle is absolutely amazing. Far better than the competition. Don’t fall for the Hyundai Kia Tesla trap this is the vehicle to get. Luxury comfort and power quality. Nissan nailed it don’t pass this vehicle up. Like I said I bought one and I’m considering the Nismo next for my wife. Sorry for myself and she can have my platinum e-4orce. Amazing review. Amazing vehicle.

[@anthonyc8499]

Ariya is unique looking but it’s like 4 years late to the party with limited range numbers and slow battery tech that matches its October 2019 unveiling.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Real world range is just as good as most EVs out there. As high as 300 miles.

[@patrickgardner484]

I don’t think all electric car engineers have to decide on a spacious cabin or a front trunk space. Tesla, Ford, and Rivian seem to have achieved both.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Only Ford Mach-E. Tesla and Rivian have thick consoles down the middle.

[@patrickgardner484]

Do you have a favorite overall electric SUV?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

@@patrickgardner484 Price no object? Porsche Taycan GTS. Range no issue? Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Range and price an issue? Hyundai Ioniq 6 SE. Cadillac Lyriq is really good too, good value for what it offers.

[@kentonbolte931]

I sat in one of those at the Electric Expo last weekend. I'm big and wide, 6 feet tall, with Swedish genetics. I want the drivers seat to go back another 4 to 6 inches so my legs can move and stretch.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

4-6 inches more? What's your inseam?

[@kentonbolte931]

@@DrivenCarReviews my legs aren't bendy. One knee to be replaced some day and the other hip which was replaced. Other things as well. I fit great in my Honda CRX before it became a hood ornament for a Mack truck.

[@ganthc]

Great review. It was probably best that the Evil Twin did not go with you on the camping trip.

[@jrwaters943]

Its sad that this is such an overlooked vehicle. The interior is arguably the nicest of any EV under $75k. If Nissan is able to improve fast charging speeds and adopt NACs I could see myself getting one.

[@PhilKulak]

I couldn't stand the touchscreen. Resistive, low resolution, slow, all that. Great car, but I could not commit to dealing with that for a three-year lease.

[@jrwaters943]

@@PhilKulak It's no Tesla, but I had no issues on my test drive and most things can be done via voice (CarPlay)

[@JBrown-go8ru]

Nicest under $75k is a stretch. The delusion is why this vehicle is unpopular.

[@rabeahkarram9689]

This is a top pick. Buy it way better than the rest. I’ve owned all EV brands. This was the best one. By far.

[@sportsMike87]

That one actually looks better than the hearing aid brown color

[@davidkeller1040]

Very nice review, as always. I think the Lexus Rz450 Premium is a very close competitor- I have 4500 miles on mine with avg efficiency of 4.0 m/kwh so 260 miles effective range in mixed driving. The 30 days of free loaners on a three year lease is extremely valuable- saved me 2200 miles over 11 days on a road trip with an RX 450 at zero cost. Charging is mediocre so would consider the Ariya for sure if it had the loaner program. Safe travels to all.

[@jeffcohen1934]

You mentioned a smooth ride. Ha. We have a Premier FWD that bounces like it had square wheels. We have tried lower tire pressures which help some, but the recommendation of 41 F/R is much too harsh. The Leaf we traded in for this rode better. Any tips?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Honestly, the only thing I can think of is getting the tires checked for balance issues. I'm hardly the only writer that gushes about the ride quality.

[@jeffcohen1934]

@@DrivenCarReviews One tire had a nail in it and is being replaced. Had them change the valve bodies in the valve stems and rebalance the tires. Maybe now they will hold air and give a better ride. Will know in a few days.

[@ranger8901]

@@jeffcohen1934any update?

[@jeffcohen1934]

@@ranger8901 I played with the tire pressures and had the dealership check the alignment and no, it still rides poorly. However, loaded with a trunk of luggage and 4 adults, the ride is better. It is seldom driven that way though.

[@davidgiles9751]

That's a really good looking Nissan. I wish the charge rate was faster though. Not necessarily a show stopper for buying, but it's a hard sell these days when there are so many good options that charge significantly faster - like my EV6. 😁

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I'm curious how many times that rate makes a difference for you. Do you road trip often? Are there 350kW terminals that you can access on a regular basis?

[@Molishious]

I think Nissan needs to come out with an updated model with improved charging speed, but I think it’s the price that’s the killer. Around me I can get an Ioniq 5 for less and there are a lot more to choose from. Meanwhile the 2025 Ioniq 5 gets lots of updates and the Model Y is a lot cheaper and has the charing network. I don’t get the sense that Nissan is able or willing to make the Ariya be what it needs to be competitive. That said, it is by far the best Japanese EV.

[@floridaliving4900]

Went from a Model Y (4680 battery) to a 2023 Evolve+. So much nicer interior and driving dynamics. Acceleration while slower to 60 (due to Nissan limited fully power till over 30mph) is faster when merging or highway passing (when you really need the power) and when you hit the supercharger it charges faster. Don't let the peak marketing KW trick you. It's the total area under the curve that matters, this is where the Nissan is amazing. The Tesla would peak at 240kw and rapidly drop and over 50% would be 50kw or worse. The Ariya peaks at 130kw and then drops to 95-98kw and holds it to 85%! I picked mine up used with 4,900 miles for $30K out the door, used these are a steal. By the end of 2024 Nissan will have access to the Tesla Supercharger network which is the main selling reason for Tesla. Don't overlook this vehicle!!

[@Molishious]

I test drove this and really liked it. I’m in the market for a top trim. I can find an Ioniq 5 with big dealer discounts and the trim and color I want. It’s very nice too. The 2025 I5 is coming out with lots of improvements. I can’t find anything on improvements to the Ariya other than the fact it will have a Nismo version. So great car but it’s not priced to compete, at least at the top trim. The Ariya does have a front right charge port that is better for superchargers so when it gets the nasc connector it may have an advantage. I think the motorized console is dumb as the motor takes up the storage and the haptic buttons look cool but I didn’t like how they functioned.

[@OverlordActual]

Did I miss the road trip video?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Sorry, working on it. Should be up late today.

[@anthonyc8499]

@@DrivenCarReviewscan’t wait to see this road trip! The fast charging in E. WA is getting a lot better really quickly.

[@frankcoffey]

They should have branded this Infinity. The Nissan name doesn't make that price easy to take.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

There's supposed to be an Infiniti based on this architecture. But I keep waiting... and waiting

[@DWK33]

Seems like this is very similar to the new Nissan Murano that was just announced. Seems like they would do better just using the Murano and giving a trim this electric motor, instead of 2 different models

[@JarmelSingsKaraoke]

🔥 Tuesday Morning ☕☕ Entertainment

[@stephenwinter8892]

Greetings from southern Ontario Canada there's talk in the automotive circles that the nissan leaf will grow in size and be able to travel further on a charge? Any ideas if that is true or speculation

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I have heard next to nothing on the next gen Leaf that's credible.

[@Snafu2346]

My dealer had a 4k protection package that they said included "oil changes, trans fluid flushes, fuel filters, plugs, etc" I just looked at them and stared hoping they were correct themselves. I said please take of off. Finally I said "it's electric". They fluttered, finally took it off the price, then ADDED 4K TO THE MSRP. THANKS NISSAN DEALERS!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Yikes. I would immediate try another store.

[@Snafu2346]

I really did like this car. I mean I really did. It surprised me because with all the Ioniq's, Ev6's, this one felt the most practical. I thought the others were more spirited, but I liked the value that I was getting of it similarly priced. It seemed like I would have to do a Limited Ioniq, or a GTLINE EV6 to get similar features, but for 10k LESS. Instead, I got the dealer, and was more because of the Nissan dealers .. markup. I mean really? NISSAN? I can understand Toyota dealer network. But NISSAN?

[@minkcreeksyncros]

The charge cord is 120 and 240? Have we seen this before? Tell me more.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

A replaceable plug. Pretty common.

[@SkittishEgg]

Where's the chili recipe? :D

[@DrivenCarReviews]

In the video description of the range test video

[@doxydoxdelamanca9902]

A new car-review channel. I like it! I am sub'ng.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Welcome aboard!

[@entasis.fifty-four]

Nissan it’s needs to up the range to a minimum of 350 miles.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Why?

[@LoveStallion]

But will the CVT fail? ;)~

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Guaranteed not to (since it doesn't have one).

[@jps99jps99utube]

No 'green light, yellow light, red light?'

[@jeffcranmer5374]

One of the reasons why i rejected the Arriya when searching for a used EV was that i couldn't figure out which version was which. Their naming scheme is completely messed up, and i couldn't be bothered to figure out which ones were AWD, which ones had the big battery etc, which trim was which. I ended up buying a C40 instead.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Jeff, I'm going to gently chide you if you couldn't figure out the trims. It's pretty easy. The + on the back means it's the large pack. And the e-4ORCE badge is AWD. But enjoy the Volvo!

[@kjay-il3id]

Funny it appears my comment got deleted?? I had said that I appreciate Tom bringing up some of the drawbacks for some people to own an EV. While it may work occasionally (meet for lunch on a trip), people taking most trips further than the initial range amount do not want to wait 58 mins to get charged to continue their trip. Especially if you have kids. Then if you are going somewhere a little remote you definitely have to plan where your charging stations and hope they are working. Just ask TFL. People in northern climate also suffer a lot of range reduction due to the cold climate in the winter. If you are traveling on the interstate at typical speeds of 75-80 mph you also suffer from reduced range. So while I think the EV is great for commuting or city dwellers, there are still too many negatives for a lot of people to buy into EVs. It's not my opinion, just look at sales of EVs and their resale value. Most people cannot afford to have 2 cars (1 ICE and 1 EV) depending on how far they want to drive. Technology of batteries and charging times need to improve for more people to embrace. One last point, people don't want to be forced into something they do not support yet.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I only delete the most egregious of posts, maybe you didn't push reply? I suggest buying the vehicle that works for your needs. I've had little to no issues with EVs.

[@ERIKM-ed9ef]

These are half-truths at best. I've driven over 300k miles in EVs since 2013--a Volt/Bolt/Model 3 and now an Ariya. I just did an 1,100 hundred mile trip from Los Angeles to north of San Francisco with no problem. I drive a minimum of 25,000 miles a year all electric and usually go to 30-40k per year. In one month I've put about 6k miles on my Ariya and travel all over the American Southwest. According to AAA 67% of all road trips are less than 400 miles, which any EV can do. With one lunch break I could easily do 550 miles in my Ariya. Add in another 20 minute stop and I could do 650 miles. With winter driving all you need to do is add in two additional 15 minute stops to make up for your range loss. This is much more convenient than having to rebuild your house due to an atmospheric river flooding your neighborhood :) Just ask the people in central Europe how they liked the recent Boris storm. I agree that very remote locations such as National Parks can still be difficult to get to. But most people don't travel to depopulated areas. I can't speak for Europe, but in the US no US State is forcing people to buy EVS. Even in California you can buy used ICE vehicles FOREVER. There is no ban on them after 2035 and 25% of new car sales can be hybrids.

[@lancekoz]

Where's the chile recipe?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Tomorrow in the range test video. It's shown at the campsite.

[@TalismanPHX]

Why isn't this vehicle an Infiniti 😮

[@fist003]

i think you can leave the Toyota/Subaru BZ4X out from the list since both are not competitive at all

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Not true. It all depends on people's use case. Plus aggressive deals make those appealing.

[@JBrown-go8ru]

Not a fan of this vehicle. Watched your review anyway.

[@denault3985]

It just an OK EV, not a super speed Tesla or fast charger like the Hyundai or Kia vehicles. At least it is not boxy ugly like the Toyota or Subaru's EV's.

[@patrick7228]

Hi Tom, I keep hearing Ev's are a pain to tow if you get a flat and tire shops don't know how to lift them safely without possibly damaging the battery. Any experience with this? Just more anti-ev nonsense?

[@jeffer1101]

I can't imagine towing would be much of an issue, aside from the fact EVs are heavy (but I would assume a tow truck can still handle it). As well, many new tow trucks are flat beds now. Regarding lifting, I think there are likely specific lift points that you use so you don't lift the vehicle by its battery pack. I would think most reputable shops would know this and it shouldn't be a problem, but if you get stuck somewhere remote and whoever is lifting it doesn't know I suppose it could be an issue. However, many higher end regular cars also have special lift points as they have a lot of undercarriage protection so the vehicles need to be lifted in certain areas (so that's not an exclusive EV thing). In short, there's a lot of things to know about regarding EVs (to consider before buying), but I don't see these two points being overly worrisome.

[@patrick7228]

@@jeffer1101 Thanks!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

What jeffer1101 said. Tow trucks can handle pickups and those weigh quite a bit. And EVs are engineered to be lifted so that's not an issue. That said, a bad truck operator can screw up any vehicle.

[@ranger8901]

@@DrivenCarReviewsI’ve had my LEAF on a flatbed twice (flat tires). To get in neutral to be pulled onto the bed, I have to open the passenger door, reach over and apply the brake with my hand and shift it into neutral. Because whenever I open the driver door, it shifts into park. Do you know if the Ariya is the same?

[@mumwifeteacher]

No 110v outlet in an electric car is a complete failure.

[@ChristopherWalkenActor]

not a fan of the exterior.