The Nissan Ariya: An Indomitable Electric SUV

Photo Source: NISSAN

Nissan is no stranger to building electric vehicles, having sold over half a million of the Leaf over the past dozen years, with no fewer than 19 new electric vehicle models on the way from the Japanese company by 2030. The 2023 Ariya Platinum+ e-4orce not only represents the first of these new offerings, but also a massive step forward in terms of capability, style, and luxury for Nissan’s electrified effort. The e-4orce designation indicates an all-wheel drive SUV courtesy of dual, externally excited synchronous motors (EESM) at the front and rear, producing 290-kilowatts and translating into 389 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. These numbers result in a very quick vehicle, able to hit 60 miles per hour from rest in five seconds.

Precision and Performance

More importantly, Nissan has engineered the vehicle’s power to be delivered smoothly and in a more linear fashion than in some of its electric vehicle competition, adding to an overall upscale and sophisticated sensation. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system not only improves traction on slick surfaces, but it also helps the Ariya e-4orce become a competent handler with power being distributed where the most grip is available, putting it to best use. In turn, this helps the Ariya exit corners with fervor, maintaining its composure even when driven aggressively. 

Suspension components are optimized to take advantage of this, creating a comfortable ride and stable handling while also suppressing vibrations and noise from entering the cabin space. In the rear, the suspension packaging, including the multi-link system and rear electric motor, creates a balance of ride comfort, handling, and performance. That said, the Ariya is a capable SUV at higher speeds but feels more at ease as a high-speed cruiser than a genuinely sporty vehicle. 

A High Degree of Comfort

Generally, there is a higher level of equipment to be had in this e-4orce variant of the electric vehicle. To that end, every trim receives steering wheel heating, while the Platinum+ e-4orce has power wheel adjustment. Additionally, a power driver’s seat is standard across the board, as are heated front seats. The Platinum+ even adds cooled front seats. All e-4orce trims boast heated rear seats that recline and split 60/40.

As far as technological features go, a 12.3-inch infotainment system with wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay is standard fare. The vehicle also integrates a six-speaker audio system and four USB ports. However, the Platinum+ trim swaps the latter for a ten-speaker Bose audio upgrade. Even though a wireless charging pad is limited to the Evolve+ and Platinum+ trims, a 12.3-inch driver display unit, dual-zone climate control, a ten-inch head-up display, and front and rear parking sensors are standard across the lineup.

The Interior

The 2023 Nissan Ariya boasts a well-designed and spacious interior that offers convenience and comfort 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 provide excellent comfort, even during long journeys. The absence of a link between the dashboard and console creates a feeling of clearance, accentuated by exceptional visibility from all angles, including with a camera mirror. The Ariya even includes ambient lighting, a thoughtful final touch that enhances the driving experience.

If the Nissan Ariya stands out as an attractive option for you, please come visit Nissan of Fort Pierce. Are you excited about the future of new cars and even more about the future of electric vehicles? We are too, where the selection is always wide and the excitement to help our customers is never-ending. Whether you are looking to take a peek at our new vehicle inventory, or our quality used vehicles are more your speed, we have got you covered.