Nissan has been going through a difficult period in recent years, but with the innovative and eye-catching Ariya, it will hope to launch into the new decade with an EV that has a broad appeal among consumers and renews faith in the Japanese automaker.
First unveiled as a concept in 2019 and then presented to the world in production-ready spec in July 2020, the Ariya shares very little in common with Nissan’s other SUVs and crossovers. Kelley Blue Book recently had the chance to check it out in person for the first time.
As journalists haven’t had the opportunity to drive the Ariya yet, this brief video doesn’t offer any insight into the electric SUV’s driving dynamics. However, it does walk us through key powertrain specifications while also discussing important exterior and interior details, as well as many of the technologies found throughout.
Read More: 2022 Nissan Ariya EV Retains Concept Looks, Offers Up To 389 HP And 380 Miles Range
Four variants of the Ariya will be available in the U.S. The entry-level model will be rear-wheel drive and sport a 215 hp and 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) electric motor and a 65 kWh battery pack. A second rear-wheel drive model will also be offered with a 90 kWh battery pack and providing a bit more punch with 239 hp and the same 221 lb-ft (300 Nm).
Shoppers will also have two all-wheel drive variants to choose from. The first uses a 65 kWh battery and two electric motors combining to produce 335 hp and 413 lb-ft (560 Nm) of torque, while the flagship model has a 90 kWh battery, two electric motors with 389 hp and 443 lb-ft (600 Nm), and a range of 360 miles (580 km).
U.S. deliveries of the Ariya will commence later this year.