Many may not realize it, but Nissan was one of the early pioneers in the mainstream electric vehicle market. Its Leaf hatchback, launched in 2010, was among the first mass-market EVs available at an accessible price—during a time when EVs were still a niche technology. However, due to internal mismanagement and strategic missteps, Nissan lost its edge, allowing other automakers to surge ahead in electric vehicle innovation over the last decade. While Nissan is no longer seen as a front-runner in the EV race, the brand is far from giving up. With the launch of its new electric SUV—the Ariya—Nissan hopes to reclaim its place in the segment.

So, what is the Ariya? The Ariya is a crossover SUV, a highly popular category among today’s consumers. Its release was delayed by pandemic-related production issues; though unveiled in 2020, it only reached global markets in 2022 and finally debuted in Singapore in late 2024. Despite being based on a design that’s several years old, the Ariya still looks modern and sharp. Arguably, it's the most stylish Nissan currently available. Its sleek, coupe-like profile and minimalistic exterior design give it a bold yet elegant appearance.

Inside, the Ariya blends Japanese simplicity with contemporary minimalism. The dashboard features tasteful black wood trim that conceals haptic climate control buttons, setting it apart from the overly digital look found in many modern cars. A flat floor design opens up space, allowing easy movement between front seats and accommodating two gloveboxes—helpful, given the limited overall storage. Rear passengers also benefit from generous legroom and headroom, despite the sloping roof. The airy cabin, aided by large windows, feels bright and relaxing.

Technology in the Ariya follows the car’s clean aesthetic. Two 12.3-inch displays form a wide digital interface, though the graphics feel dated. Still, the layout is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a smart navigation system that highlights nearby charging points enhance convenience.

Driving Experience: The Ariya currently comes in a single-motor, front-wheel-drive configuration in Singapore, offering 215hp and 300Nm of torque. A more powerful dual-motor variant may arrive later. Performance is smooth and sufficient for urban use. It’s clearly a car built for comfortable cruising, particularly on highways. Ride quality is impressive, absorbing most road imperfections well, although sharper bumps can occasionally unsettle it. Steering is light and responsive, making it easy to handle, especially in city driving. While a Sport mode adds a bit more responsiveness, the car feels most natural in Standard mode. Nissan claims a range of up to 502km per charge (under city conditions), with a combined city-highway estimate of 385km—adequate for the average driver’s needs.

Pricing and Verdict: The biggest challenge for the Ariya is its pricing. As of April 2025, it costs $238,800 with COE in Singapore, which is quite high for a Japanese SUV. While it may not revolutionize the EV space like the Leaf once did, the Ariya is a thoughtfully designed, well-built electric SUV that delivers a refined driving experience. For those who value design, comfort, and Japanese craftsmanship, the Ariya may still be worth the premium.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from AsiaOne/Ben Chia.