The 2022 Nissan Ariya‘s design represents a shift from the current sharp, angular lines seen on many of Nissan’s vehicles. The low, wide stance of the Ariya differentiates it from the Rogue and gives it a sportier look.
Two different battery sizes will be offered—a 63.0-kWh battery is standard, and a larger 87.0-kWh pack is optional—as well as either front- or all-wheel drive. A host of driver-assistance features, infotainment tech, and convenience items will be included here, helping the 2022 Ariya compete with similarly sized EV crossovers, such as the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Kona Electric.
The Ariya is an all-new vehicle for Nissan. It features Nissan’s new semi-autonomous driving system (ProPilot 2.0), which debuted on the Japanese-market Nissan Skyline sedan. The Ariya is said to deliver up to 300 miles of driving range, but only when equipped with the optional dual-front/rear-motor drive configuration and the larger 87.0-kWh battery pack.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Unlike the Leaf, which comes only with front-wheel drive, Nissan is pulling from features developed in other cars, including the GT-R sports car’s torque-split system, to offer optional all-wheel drive via a dual-front/rear-electric-motor configuration.
We estimate that the all-wheel-drive 2022 Nissan Ariya will zip from zero to 60 mph in less than 5.0 seconds, a feat that is similar to higher-end electric vehicles. The base front-wheel drive model will likely be slower, but we still expect it to offer peppy acceleration that’s a characteristic of EV powertrains.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
Nissan says the 2022 Nissan Ariya offers up to 300 miles of driving range per charge, and if that turns out to be true, it would be quite the step up from the Leaf’s maximum range of 226 miles. Similarly sized vehicles include Jaguar’s I-Pace and Audi’s E-Tron, which have 234 and 204 miles of range, respectively. Key rivals from Tesla offer claimed ranges of over 300 miles. The Ariya will be capable of charging at home on 110- or 240-volt outlets as well as at public charging stations and even DC fast-charging ports.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
2022 Nissan Ariya‘s interior looks futuristic and minimal. Nissan appears to have discarded every button possible in pursuit of a smooth dashboard that favors a sleek look to match the design of the exterior.
Despite Nissan’s claim that the Ariya’s cabin is unlike a traditional automotive interior, its minimalistic theme appears to be its sole unique trait. Not that the cabin doesn’t look like a nice place to spend time. A flat, low floor is said to increase the spacious feeling inside, and Nissan has incorporated its comfy zero-gravity seats into the design.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
EPA fuel economy estimates aren’t yet available for the Ariya, nor has Nissan released any claimed MPGe figures. When the Ariya gets closer to launch, that information will likely be available. We also hope to test the Ariya ourselves on our 200-mile highway route, which allows us to evaluate its real-world efficiency. For more information about Ariya’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
NB: Viraltechnologies will update this article once we have more details on specifications of the 2022 Nissan Ariya.
