Nissan Leaf vs. Ariya: Which Electric Vehicle is Right for You?

Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) have gained a huge amount of traction in recent times and they are proving immensely popular with drivers, especially with regard to their eco-friendly credentials, low running costs, and unique features.

 

If you visit a Nissan dealership, you will quickly see for yourself why EVs are such a prominent choice for car buyers.  Nissan is one of the pioneers in the EV market, and it offers two impressive electric models,  the Nissan Leaf, and the Ariya.

 

Both vehicles cater to different types of drivers. Both have their own niche and each have their own defining features. Plus, you can choose from a range of model options and price points. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly commuter vehicle or a cutting-edge electric SUV with premium features, choosing between the Nissan Leaf and Ariya often boils down to your style preferences, lifestyle, and specific driving needs.

 

To help you decide, here is an in-depth look at both the Nissan Leaf and the Nissan Ariya, with a helpful comparison of their respective performance, design, and features, so that you can determine which EV is right for you.

 

A brief overview of the Nissan Leaf

 

The Leaf can be described as a compact electric hatchback. This offering from Nissan is also one of the most recognized names in the EV world. First launched in 2010, it helped set the stage for affordable, mass-market electric cars and has since become a go-to option for eco-conscious drivers.

 

The Leaf offers practicality, efficiency, and affordability. This makes it an attractive choice for city commuters or first-time EV buyers.

 

One of the Leaf’s main selling points is its affordability. With a starting price of around $28,000, and the added bonus that it qualifies for federal and state EV incentives, the Leaf hits the spot when it comes to buying a budget-friendly electric vehicle.

  

Depending on the battery option you choose, the 40 kWh version has an average range of 149 miles, or if you choose the 62 kWh battery, this extends to 226 miles.

All Leaf models support both Level 2 and fast-charging. This gives you the ability to charge from 0% to 80% in about 45 minutes, when using a fast charger.

 

Despite its affordability, the Leaf comes with a host of modern tech features such as an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist, which offers semi-autonomous driving features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

 

A brief overview of the Nissan Ariya

 

The Ariya is Nissan’s all-new electric SUV. It has been designed for drivers who want a larger, more premium electric vehicle that offers cutting-edge technology and delivers a higher performance. Launched in 2021, the Ariya marks Nissan’s entry into the competitive electric crossover market. It broadly offers more range, luxury, and versatility compared to the Leaf.

 

As you would expect, the Ariya starts at a higher price point than the Leaf, with a base price of around $43,000. However, it offers more advanced features and a larger, more luxurious design. This helps justify the price difference, and will satisfy buyers seeking a premium EV experience.

 

As with the Leaf, the Ariya offers a choice of two battery sizes. You get a 63 kWh battery that delivers an estimated range of 216 miles, or an 87 kWh battery, that provides a range of up to 304 miles.

 

The Ariya is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. This means it offers more powerful acceleration and driving dynamics than the Leaf.

 

Like the Leaf, the Ariya supports Level 2 charging and fast-charging options. Using a DC fast charger, the Ariya can charge from 0% to 80% in about 30 minutes.

 

When it comes to the interior, and tech features, the Ariya stands out for its spacious, modern interior, featuring premium materials and a minimalist design. It boasts a decent 12.3-inch dual-screen setup for the infotainment and driver display, as well as advanced driver-assist features like Nissan’s updated ProPILOT 2.0system, which offers hands-free driving capabilities on certain highways.

 

How do the Leaf and Arify compare on performance?

 

Performance is one of the key differentiators. The Leaf and Ariya are noticeably different, especially in terms of power, handling, and driving experience.

 

The Leaf’s two powertrain options offer decent performance for daily driving. You get enough power for city driving and the Leaf Plus gives you a decent performance on highways.

 

In contrast, the Ariya, is a larger and more powerful SUV. It offers significantly more power. The smaller battery option provides 214 horsepower, which is similar to the Leaf Plus, but its larger body offers more road presence and stability. However, the e-4ORCE AWD version is a different beast. It delivers faster acceleration and better control on various terrains.

 

What about interior and comfort levels?

 

Although both vehicles are from the same manufacturer, the interiors of the Nissan Leaf and Ariya are designed for different audiences.

 

The Leaf’s interior is more functional and practical. However, It has ample room for five passengers and decent cargo space (23.6 cubic feet) for a compact hatchback.

 

The tech features are perfectly acceptable, with an 8-inch touchscreen that supports smartphone integration and Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist.

 

The Ariya’s, is what you would expect from a higher-end SUV. It offers a more luxurious cabin experience. The minimalist, futuristic design is paired with premium materials like leather and wood trim. In addition, The dual 12.3-inch displays create a more immersive tech experience by offering advanced navigation, entertainment, and vehicle information in a sleek, streamlined layout.

 

You also get more space with the Ariya offers. There’s more room for passengers and cargo, with an impressive 59.7 cubic feet of storage, when the rear seats are folded down.

 

Range and charging comparisons

 

Range is often a key factor in choosing an EV, especially if you are concerned about long trips or have range anxiety.

 

The Leaf’s range varies depending on the battery size you choose, but you can expect somewhere between 149 miles and 226 miles.

 

The Ariya offers more competitive range options: You can expect to drive anywhere between 216 miles and 304 miles, depending on battery size.

 

Which EV Is right for you?

 

If you’re looking for an affordable, eco-friendly commuter vehicle, the Leaf should tick all the right boxes. It’s available at a low starting price and offers a reliable range for city driving.

  

The Nissan Ariya might be your preference if you want a premium, versatile electric SUV with cutting-edge features. Especially if you want more power, and an extended driving range.

 

Whatever model you choose, you can buy with confidence when you know it is part of the trusted Nissan range.