The Japanese automaker will launch its electric vehicle true to the concept revealed in 2019.
The Nissan Ariya was launched via a Digital World Premiere on Wednesday, July 15. Its sleek design and advanced driving system made noise during the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. It is set to arrive in the United States late next year, a few months after its launch in Japan in mid-2021.
For years, Nissan has been striving in the electric vehicle industry but was limited to producing its five-door hatchback Leaf in 2010. While the Leaf has been continuously updated, Nissan took a great leap with Ariya, which is set to challenge Tesla with similar features as Model Y.
With sharp looks that stay close to last year's concept vehicle, the electric crossover promises a quick acceleration to 60 MPH in less than five seconds, comparable with its sports coupe, Nissan Z.
Nissan Ariya will come in four variants: 2WD 63kWh, 2WD 87kWH, and AWD in two battery options. It will also include Nissan Leaf's e-Pedal feature that allows drivers to use a single pedal to accelerate, slow down, and put a brake.
The 2WD version can have a 63kWh battery and an optional 87kWh battery using a single-motor. It can run at 215 HP for up to 300 miles.
On the other hand, the Ariya AWD variant will have the "e-4ORCE" system that will use two electric motors to power each axle. While its range is not yet released, the automaker said the whole lineup can run at all speeds with ranges from 321 to 482 km.
However, Ariya AWD's trunk space is slightly less than that of the 2WD model with 14.6 cubic feet and 16.5 cu.ft., respectively.
Can Nissan Ariya challenge Tesla's Model Y?
As a small SUV with high-end features, Nissan Ariya is believed to go head to head the Tesla's Model Y, but at a lower price. Unlike Model Y's $49,000 price tag, Ariya is cheaper, starting only at around $40,000.
Model Y has a 316-mile range and is considered Tesla Model X's economical version. Model X's price starts at $80,000, which features its gull-wing doors.
Nissan claims Ariya's minimalist interior design aims to arouse "a sleek café lounge on a starship." It only features a few toggles and two 12-inch touchscreens, which is similar to Tesla Model 3. The flat cabin floor ensures huge legroom and space while Nissan's "Zero Gravity" seats ensure a comfy trip to its finest. A fold-out tray can come handy for work emergencies or even picnics.
Meanwhile, Ariya also promises to include advanced technology with Alexa fully integrated into its system, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It will also have ProPilot ASSIST 2.0, Nissan's smart voice, which would allow hands-free driving in some circumstances like lane changes, highway exits, passing, and speed maintenance assistance. Nissan's Driver Monitoring System would ensure drivers keep their eyes on the road while the Safety Shield systems are also included.Whether Ariya can elevate Nissan in the electric vehicle category remains a mystery, but its elegance will surely entice more people to consider it.
Read also: Tesla's Model Y Quality Received Negative Reports From Media Outlets: Here's How to Avoid Them
