By Staff Reporter

Nissan is no stranger to electric cars. Have been a pioneer in the segment with the Nissan Leaf, Nissan is finally adding an SUV to the mix with the new Ariya, all-electric SUV.

Looks

The Ariya takes things forward in the Nissan design language and looks like something that could easily fit into Nissan’s premium outfit, Infiniti. Upfront a wide grille dominates with slim LED headlights complementing it and making it appear as if the grille morphs into the side profile.

Expressive lines play a prominent role in the side view. Actually, viewed from there, the car appears to have a coupe silhouette more than an SUV. The rear is not as exciting as the front but isn’t boring either. The rear lights are connected by a light bar that makes the car appear wide.

Inside, there are two 12.3-inch display screen for the driver display and the infotainment which comes with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system is also integrated with Alexa and supports over-the-air updates.

In terms of practicality, the SUV is only available in 5 seat configuration with the 2WD (466L) models offering more cargo space than the 4WD (408L) models.

The electric Ariya SUV will be offered with wheels ranging from 19 to 20 inches.

Engines and range

Nissan estimate that the new Nissan Ariya will have a range of about 610 kilometres from the long-range two-wheel-drive variant with the 90-kWh battery pack that has a usable capacity of 87 kWh. There’s also going to be a smaller 65-kWh battery of which you’ll be able to use 63 kWh. The range will not be too shabby here measuring at up to 450 kilometres. Power output ranges from 160 kW to 290 kW whilst torque varies between 300 Nm and 600 Nm, and the quickest Ariya able to sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds.

Additional specifications for the Japanese market appear below. There is no word on local availability of the Ariya and chances look bleak with our market having missed out on the new Leaf.