Nissan Ariya

Eleven years after the original Leaf, Nissan releases its tricky second electric album The mid-sized family EV market is stacked with a diverse range of models – and what that means for buyers is a greater amount of choice. You can invest in a smaller high-riding hatchback, or go for something that blends the credentials of a crossover with the appeal of an SUV, much like the markedly different Nissan Ariya. Its rivals could not be more varied. The Tesla Model Y and Model 3 major on range, performance and efficiency. The Audi Q4 is a sleek and tech-heavy alternative. And then there’s the Korean trio: the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Genesis GV60. Oh and we can't forget the coupé-SUVs, too, such as the Volkswagen ID 4 and Ford Mustang Mach E.So where does the Ariya sit among this ever-growing list of electric crossovers? Nissan had plenty of time to mull its plans on how best to expand its line-up of zero-emission vehicles, with an 11-year gap between the Ariya and Nissan Leaf. Since its inception in 2022, the Japanese brand’s second ‘proper’ EV has led a somewhat quiet life. That looks set to change, with a Nismo variant tipped for release by the end of 2024 – and last year the firm added two new trim lines to its line-up to fend off competition from Europe, China and America. Range at a glanceThe Ariya is offered in a choice of four trim levels, with two battery options and either a single-motor front-wheel-drive format or a more powerful twin-motor four-wheel-drive layout. Entry-level Engage trim is relatively basic, with fabric seats, LED headlights and a selection of safety-based features. Mid-level Advance gets synthetic leather seats, with fabric inserts, a hands-free tailgate, heated front seats and surround-view camera with 'Intelligent' rear-view mirror. Evolve carries over most of the features of the Advance, but gains plusher leather and suede seats, a panoramic roof, ventilated and heated front seats and a flexible centre console.Evolve+ tops the range and features the same equipment as the Evolve but with larger, 20in wheels and blue nappa leather seats. MODElsPriceENGAGE£39,645ADVANCE£43,145EVOLVE£47,140EVOLVE+£59,025