Twitter was in its infancy. Elon Musk was a mere hundred millionaire. It was a simpler time.Despite the Leaf's success and some improvements over the years, more than a decade without a new electric model has left the one-time trailblazer lagging behind in the EV race. TheDelivering loads more comfort, style, and capability than the aging Leaf, the Ariya proves that even after a hiatus Nissan is ready to go toe-to-toe with today's top EVs.
Its biggest rivals are other compact electric SUVs like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Volkswagen ID.4, all of which have been around for years. The 2023 Nissan Ariya Empower+There's a lot to like about the Ariya, even if it isn't the flashiest or most cutting-edge EV out there.
Without a gas engine taking up valuable real estate, EVs can offer lots more packaging flexibility than gas vehicles, which Nissan took full advantage of here. As a result, the Ariya affords a surprising amount of room to stretch out in front and in back. There's no bulky tunnel running down the middle of the vehicle. Rather, there's a wide-open space by the driver's right knee, which lends a sense of openness you don't get in every EV.
The main touchscreen is crisp and responsive to taps, but nothing special. The digital gauge cluster facing the driver is straightforward, easily customizable, and doesn't bombard you with too much information, which I appreciated. And the Ariya manages to provide a clean, minimalist aesthetic without getting rid of every single button. Below the touchscreen and on the center console you'll find capacitive switches embedded elegantly into the wood trim.