Nissan Ariya Electric Review: UK Roads Tested!

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Nissan Ariya, Nissan's all-electric SUV that's been making waves in the UK. We're not just looking at the specs; we're putting it through its paces on UK roads to see if it lives up to the hype. So, buckle up and let's get started!

First Impressions: Design and Comfort

When you first set your eyes on the Nissan Ariya, you'll notice it’s a departure from Nissan's previous designs. It's sleek, modern, and has a futuristic vibe that sets it apart from the crowd. The front grille is replaced with a smooth, illuminated panel, giving it a distinctive look. The sharp lines and aerodynamic silhouette contribute to its overall appeal, making it a head-turner on UK streets.

Stepping inside, the Ariya continues to impress. The interior is minimalist yet luxurious, with a focus on creating a comfortable and serene environment. The dashboard features two 12.3-inch screens seamlessly integrated into a single panel, providing all the essential information without overwhelming the driver. The use of high-quality materials, such as soft-touch plastics and leather upholstery, adds to the premium feel. Nissan has really focused on decluttering the cabin, resulting in a spacious and airy atmosphere. The center console is adjustable, allowing you to customize the legroom and storage space to your liking. The seats are incredibly comfortable, offering excellent support for long journeys, which is crucial when you're exploring the scenic routes of the UK.

But it’s not just about looks and comfort. The Ariya is packed with technology designed to enhance your driving experience. The ProPILOT Assist system, for example, takes the stress out of highway driving by assisting with steering, acceleration, and braking. The e-Pedal system allows you to drive using only the accelerator pedal, making city driving smoother and more efficient. And with over-the-air software updates, your Ariya will always be up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. All these elements combine to create a compelling package that’s both stylish and practical for the modern UK driver. Considering the UK's diverse road conditions, from bustling city centers to winding country lanes, the Ariya's blend of comfort, style, and advanced technology makes it a strong contender in the electric SUV market. The attention to detail in both the interior and exterior design reflects Nissan's commitment to creating a vehicle that’s not just functional, but also a pleasure to own and drive. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Ariya promises a refined and enjoyable experience that sets it apart from its rivals.

Performance and Handling: UK Roads in Mind

Now, let's talk about how the Ariya performs on UK roads. The Ariya comes in several configurations, including two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options, with different battery sizes to suit your needs. The entry-level model offers a decent range for daily commutes, while the larger battery packs provide ample range for longer journeys across the UK. The electric motor delivers instant torque, providing brisk acceleration that makes overtaking effortless. Whether you're navigating the busy streets of London or cruising along the motorways, the Ariya feels responsive and agile. The suspension is well-tuned, striking a good balance between comfort and handling. It absorbs bumps and potholes with ease, providing a smooth ride even on rougher road surfaces. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you confidence behind the wheel. The all-wheel-drive models offer enhanced grip and stability, making them ideal for tackling wet or icy conditions, which are common in the UK.

One of the standout features of the Ariya is its regenerative braking system, which helps to recover energy and extend the range. The e-Pedal system takes this a step further, allowing you to control the car's speed using only the accelerator pedal. When you lift off the accelerator, the car decelerates smoothly and comes to a complete stop, making it incredibly convenient for city driving. The Ariya also boasts a range of advanced driver-assistance systems, such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, which enhance safety and provide peace of mind. These features are particularly useful on UK roads, where traffic can be unpredictable and road markings can be inconsistent. Furthermore, the Ariya's quiet and refined driving experience makes it a pleasure to drive, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing overall comfort. The combination of performance, handling, and advanced technology makes the Ariya a compelling choice for UK drivers looking for an electric SUV that can handle a variety of road conditions. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Ariya delivers a driving experience that's both enjoyable and confidence-inspiring. The instant torque and smooth acceleration make it a joy to drive, while the well-tuned suspension and precise steering ensure that it handles with composure and agility. With its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology, the Ariya is well-suited to the demands of UK roads.

Range and Charging: Is it Practical for the UK?

Range anxiety is a real concern for many electric car buyers, so let's talk about the Ariya's range and charging capabilities. The Ariya offers different battery options, with the largest providing a range of over 300 miles on a single charge. Of course, the actual range will vary depending on driving conditions, weather, and driving style. However, even in real-world conditions, the Ariya delivers a respectable range that should be sufficient for most UK drivers. Charging the Ariya is relatively straightforward. It supports both AC and DC fast charging, allowing you to charge at home, at work, or at public charging stations. Using a home charger, you can fully charge the battery overnight, while DC fast charging can add a significant amount of range in just 30 minutes. The UK has a growing network of public charging stations, making it easier to top up the battery when you're on the go. Nissan also offers a range of charging solutions, including home chargers and charging apps, to make the charging process more convenient.

One of the key considerations for UK drivers is the availability of charging infrastructure. Fortunately, the UK has been investing heavily in expanding its charging network, with more and more charging stations popping up in cities, towns, and along major roads. This makes it easier to plan long journeys and reduces the risk of running out of charge. However, it's still important to do your research and plan your route carefully, especially if you're traveling to more remote areas. The Ariya's navigation system can help you locate nearby charging stations and estimate the charging time required. Additionally, the Ariya's energy management system helps to optimize energy consumption and maximize range. It provides real-time information on energy usage, allowing you to adjust your driving style and conserve energy when needed. Overall, the Ariya's range and charging capabilities make it a practical choice for UK drivers. The availability of different battery options, combined with the growing charging infrastructure, ensures that you can enjoy the benefits of electric driving without worrying about range anxiety. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long-distance trip, the Ariya offers a convenient and reliable charging experience that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. The ability to charge at home overnight is a significant advantage, allowing you to start each day with a full battery. And with the increasing availability of public charging stations, you can easily top up the battery when you're on the road. The Ariya's range and charging capabilities make it a practical and convenient choice for UK drivers looking to make the switch to electric.

Technology and Features: What's on Offer?

The Nissan Ariya is packed with technology and features that enhance the driving experience. The dual 12.3-inch screens provide a wealth of information, including navigation, infotainment, and vehicle settings. The system is intuitive and easy to use, with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. The Ariya also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system. The ProPILOT Assist system is a standout feature, providing semi-autonomous driving capabilities that make highway driving less stressful. It can automatically adjust your speed, maintain a safe following distance, and keep you centered in your lane. The Ariya also features a range of safety technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking, which help to prevent accidents.

One of the unique features of the Ariya is its e-Pedal system, which allows you to drive using only the accelerator pedal. When you lift off the accelerator, the car decelerates smoothly and comes to a complete stop, making it incredibly convenient for city driving. The Ariya also offers a range of connectivity features, such as over-the-air software updates, which ensure that your car is always up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. The NissanConnect app allows you to remotely control various functions of the car, such as locking and unlocking the doors, starting the climate control, and checking the battery level. Furthermore, the Ariya's advanced sound system provides a premium audio experience, immersing you in your favorite music or podcasts. The interior lighting is customizable, allowing you to create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. The Ariya also features a panoramic sunroof, which adds to the sense of spaciousness and brings natural light into the cabin. Overall, the Ariya is a technologically advanced car that offers a range of features designed to enhance your driving experience. From its intuitive infotainment system to its advanced driver-assistance systems, the Ariya is packed with technology that makes driving safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable. The combination of technology and features makes the Ariya a compelling choice for tech-savvy drivers who value innovation and convenience. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long-distance trip, the Ariya's technology and features will enhance your driving experience and keep you connected and entertained.

Verdict: Should You Buy It?

So, should you buy the Nissan Ariya in the UK? The Ariya is a compelling electric SUV that offers a blend of style, performance, and technology. It's well-suited to UK roads, with a comfortable ride, responsive handling, and a decent range. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, with a range of features that enhance the driving experience. The Ariya is also relatively affordable, especially when you factor in the government incentives for electric cars. However, it's not without its drawbacks. The charging infrastructure in some parts of the UK still needs improvement, and the Ariya's price may be a barrier for some buyers. Overall, the Nissan Ariya is a strong contender in the electric SUV market. If you're looking for a stylish, practical, and technologically advanced electric car, the Ariya is definitely worth considering.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy the Nissan Ariya depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value style, comfort, and technology, and you're looking for an electric SUV that's well-suited to UK roads, the Ariya is definitely worth considering. However, if you're on a tight budget or you live in an area with limited charging infrastructure, you may want to explore other options. Before making a decision, it's always a good idea to take the Ariya for a test drive and compare it to other electric SUVs in its class. This will help you determine whether it's the right car for you. The Ariya's combination of style, performance, and technology makes it a compelling choice for UK drivers looking to make the switch to electric. With its comfortable ride, responsive handling, and decent range, the Ariya is well-suited to the demands of UK roads. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, with a range of features that enhance the driving experience. And with government incentives for electric cars, the Ariya is also relatively affordable. All these factors combine to make the Ariya a strong contender in the electric SUV market. So, if you're in the market for an electric SUV, be sure to give the Nissan Ariya a serious look. You might just find that it's the perfect car for you.