This page provides a review for the Nissan Leaf and Ariya through performance, driving experience and reliability.
2024 Nissan Leaf
Performance
The 2024 Nissan Leaf is available in two main configurations: the base Leaf S and the more powerful Leaf SV Plus. The Leaf S is equipped with a 40 kWh battery pack and a 147-horsepower electric motor, providing adequate acceleration for city driving. The Leaf SV Plus features a larger 62 kWh battery pack and a 214-horsepower electric motor, delivering more robust performance. The SV Plus can accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds, which is respectable for a compact electric vehicle. While the Leaf offers a smooth and quiet ride, it lacks the sporty feel of some newer electric competitors due to its focus on efficiency and comfort.
Driving Experience
The driving experience in the Nissan Leaf is centered around practicality and ease of use. The interior is straightforward, with a 7-inch digital display for the driver and an 8-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to integrate smartphones. The cabin is comfortable and offers decent visibility, although the materials used are more utilitarian compared to some higher-end electric vehicles.
The Leaf's regenerative braking system, known as e-Pedal, allows for one-pedal driving, which can simplify urban driving and improve efficiency. However, it may take some time for drivers to get accustomed to the aggressive regenerative braking. The Leaf's compact size and responsive steering make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, though it doesn't offer the dynamic handling of some sportier EVs. Overall, the driving experience is comfortable and user-friendly, designed with everyday commuting in mind.
Reliability
Nissan has a solid reputation for reliability, and the Leaf benefits from this legacy. The vehicle is built with durable materials, and the electric drivetrain is relatively simple compared to traditional internal combustion engines, potentially reducing maintenance needs. However, like all modern vehicles, the advanced electronics and software systems could present long-term reliability concerns. The Leaf comes with a standard warranty that covers 3 years or 36,000 miles, and an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty for the battery, which provides additional peace of mind for owners.
Good:
Affordable pricing and federal tax credit eligibility.
Smooth and quiet ride quality.
Practical and user-friendly interior.
Effective regenerative braking with e-Pedal.
Reliable with a strong warranty for the battery.
Bad:
Limited range compared to newer EV competitors.
Interior materials are less premium.
Lacks dynamic handling and sporty feel.
Older design may feel dated to some buyers.
Potential long-term reliability concerns due to electronics.
Overall Rating
The 2024 Nissan Leaf remains a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and practical electric vehicle. While it doesn't offer the range or luxury of some newer competitors, its straightforward design, comfortable ride, and strong reliability make it an attractive option for daily commuting. The Leaf earns an overall rating of 7 out of 10, reflecting its strengths in practicality and affordability, while acknowledging its limitations in range and interior refinement.
2024 Nissan Ariya
Performance
The 2024 Nissan Ariya is available in several configurations, including the base Engage, Venture+, Evolve+, and Platinum+ trims. The base Engage model features a 63 kWh battery pack and a single motor delivering 214 horsepower, while the higher trims come with an 87 kWh battery pack and dual motors, offering up to 389 horsepower in the Platinum+ e-4ORCE AWD variant. The top-of-the-line Platinum+ accelerates from 0-60 mph in about 5.1 seconds, providing strong performance for an SUV. The Ariya offers a smooth and quiet ride, with a well-balanced suspension that handles road imperfections effectively. However, its weight of over 4,400 pounds can be felt during aggressive driving, slightly affecting agility.
Driving Experience
The driving experience in the Nissan Ariya is characterized by comfort, advanced technology, and modern design. The cabin features a minimalist layout with dual 12.3-inch digital displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, enhancing connectivity. The interior is spacious, with high-quality materials and comfortable seating, providing a premium feel.
The Ariya's ProPILOT Assist 2.0 system offers semi-autonomous driving capabilities, making highway driving more relaxed. The e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system in higher trims improves traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The regenerative braking system allows for one-pedal driving, though it may require some acclimation. Overall, the Ariya delivers a refined and enjoyable driving experience, suitable for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.
Reliability
Nissan's reputation for reliability extends to the Ariya, with a focus on build quality and durable materials. The electric drivetrain's simplicity compared to traditional internal combustion engines suggests fewer maintenance needs over time. However, the advanced electronics and software systems could pose long-term reliability concerns. The Ariya comes with a standard warranty that covers 3 years or 36,000 miles, and an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty for the battery, providing peace of mind for new owners.
Good:
Strong acceleration and smooth performance.
High-quality, spacious, and modern interior.
Advanced technology with dual digital displays.
Effective ProPILOT Assist 2.0 for semi-autonomous driving.
Reliable with a strong warranty for the battery.
Bad:
Heavy curb weight affects agility.
Regenerative braking requires acclimation.
Potential long-term reliability concerns due to complex electronics.
Limited rear visibility due to sloping roofline.
Higher trims can be expensive.
Overall Rating
The 2024 Nissan Ariya is a strong contender in the electric SUV market, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology. While it has minor drawbacks, such as the weight affecting agility and potential tech-related reliability issues, the overall driving experience and build quality are impressive. The Ariya earns an overall rating of 8 out of 10, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a modern, high-tech electric SUV.