Nissan Electric Car 2022 Ariya Review Features and Performance

The 2022 Nissan Ariya marks Nissan’s bold leap into the premium electric SUV segment, combining sleek design with up to 304 miles of range on a single charge. With dual-motor e-4ORCE all-wheel drive, 389 horsepower, and advanced driver-assist tech, the Ariya delivers confident performance and a smooth, quiet ride. Its modern interior and intuitive infotainment make it a standout in the competitive EV market.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 304 miles on a single charge.
• Fast charging: 130 kW DC charging adds 190 miles in 30 mins.
• Smooth AWD performance: Dual-motor setup delivers instant torque and stability.
• Premium interior: Spacious cabin with advanced tech and premium materials.
• ProPILOT 2.0: Hands-free driving assistance for safer highway commutes.
• Competitive pricing: Strong value in the midsize electric SUV segment.

Nissan Electric Car 2022 Ariya Review Features and Performance

Let’s be honest—choosing an electric car isn’t just about going green. It’s about finding a vehicle that fits your lifestyle, your budget, and your sense of style. When I first heard about the Nissan electric car 2022 Ariya, I was curious. Nissan had a strong start with the Leaf, but the EV market has exploded since then. Could the Ariya keep up with Tesla, Ford, and Hyundai? After spending time with it—driving it through city streets, highway stretches, and even a rainy weekend trip—I can say this: the Ariya is more than just a comeback. It’s a statement.

The 2022 Nissan Ariya isn’t just another electric SUV. It’s a bold leap into Nissan’s future. With sleek Japanese-inspired design, a surprisingly roomy interior, and a driving experience that balances comfort and responsiveness, it feels like Nissan finally built an EV that doesn’t apologize for being practical. But is it the right choice for you? In this review, I’ll walk you through what it’s really like to live with the Ariya—from daily commutes to road trips, charging quirks, and how it compares to the competition. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or a seasoned green driver, I’ve got the real talk you need.

First Impressions: Design and Exterior Styling

A Modern Take on Japanese Aesthetics

From the moment you see the Ariya, it’s clear Nissan went for something different. No over-the-top futuristic gimmicks. Instead, the design feels calm, intentional, and refined. The front fascia features a “shield” grille (a closed-off panel since there’s no engine to cool), with thin, horizontal LED headlights that stretch across the width. It’s sleek, almost like a concept car that made it to production.

The side profile is where the Ariya truly shines. The sloping roofline and coupe-like silhouette give it a sporty, almost premium SUV look—something you’d expect from a Lexus or Acura, not a Nissan. The 19-inch alloy wheels (standard on most trims) fill the wheel wells nicely, and the flush door handles add a touch of sophistication. It’s not flashy, but it’s undeniably attractive.

Size and Practicality

The Ariya sits in the compact SUV segment, but it feels more spacious than its size suggests. It’s slightly longer than a Honda CR-V and about the same width as a Toyota RAV4. That translates to real-world benefits: easier parking in tight city spots, good visibility, and a footprint that doesn’t overwhelm suburban driveways.

One thing I loved? The low beltline and large windows. They make the cabin feel airy, especially on sunny days. And the panoramic moonroof (available on higher trims) adds to that open-air vibe. Even my friend who’s 6’2” said he had plenty of headroom—no slouching required.

Color and Trim Options

Nissan offers a range of colors, from classic black and white to bold options like “Scarlet Ember” and “Deep Ocean Blue.” My test model was in “Gun Metallic,” which looked sleek under city lights. Higher trims like the Platinum+ come with two-tone paint (black roof with body color), giving it a premium look without the premium price.

Pro tip: If you’re buying new, consider the two-tone option—it adds $695, but it makes the Ariya stand out in a sea of monochrome EVs.

Interior and Cabin Experience

Minimalist Meets High-Tech

Step inside, and the Ariya feels like a breath of fresh air. Nissan ditched the cluttered dashboards of older models. Instead, you get a clean, horizontal layout with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system—both seamlessly integrated into a single curved display. It’s not a Tesla minimalism, but it’s close.

The materials are a pleasant surprise. Soft-touch surfaces on the dash and doors, real metal trim (on higher trims), and fabric-wrapped pillars give it a warm, premium feel. My only gripe? The center console is a bit too shiny—it reflects sunlight and can be distracting when driving toward the sun.

Seating and Space

Front seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. I drove 150 miles in one sitting and didn’t feel the need to stop for a stretch. The seats are heated and ventilated (on Platinum+), and the driver’s seat has memory settings. Rear seats offer 37.9 inches of legroom—enough for two adults or three kids. There’s also a flat floor, so the middle passenger won’t have to straddle a hump.

Cargo space is solid: 18.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. That’s slightly more than a Tesla Model Y (17.6 cu ft) and on par with the Ford Mustang Mach-E (29.7 cu ft behind rear seats). I fit a full-size suitcase, a stroller, and a week’s worth of groceries—no problem.

Infotainment and Tech

The 12.3-inch touchscreen is responsive and intuitive. It runs Nissan’s latest infotainment system, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (a huge win). Voice commands work well—“Hey Nissan, play jazz” got me smooth Miles Davis tracks in seconds.

But here’s a tip: Use the physical buttons for climate control. They’re capacitive (touch-sensitive), not physical knobs, which can be tricky to use while driving. I found myself glancing down too often. Also, the system occasionally lagged when switching between apps, but it wasn’t a dealbreaker.

The Ariya also features a heads-up display (HUD) on higher trims. It projects speed, navigation, and driver-assist alerts onto the windshield. It’s bright, clear, and reduces the need to look away from the road.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Powertrain Options: FWD vs. AWD

The 2022 Nissan electric car Ariya comes in two powertrain configurations:

• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): 214 hp, 221 lb-ft torque
• All-Wheel Drive (e-4ORCE): 389 hp, 442 lb-ft torque (dual motors)

I tested both. The FWD model is perfect for city drivers and commuters. It’s smooth, quiet, and has enough punch for merging onto highways. The AWD e-4ORCE version? That’s the fun one. With nearly 400 hp, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in about 4.8 seconds (Nissan’s claim)—faster than a base Tesla Model Y. It’s not a sports car, but it’s definitely enthusiastic.

e-4ORCE: Nissan’s Twin-Motor AWD System

The e-4ORCE system isn’t just about power. It’s designed to improve stability and handling. Each axle has its own motor, allowing precise torque distribution. In practice, this means:

• Less understeer in corners
• Better traction on wet or icy roads
• Smoother regenerative braking (more on that below)

On a rainy day in Seattle, I took the Ariya through winding backroads. The e-4ORCE system kept the car planted, even on slick pavement. No drama, no wheelspin—just confidence. It’s not a performance SUV like the Porsche Macan, but it’s one of the most balanced EVs in its class.

Regen Braking and One-Pedal Driving

The Ariya has three regen modes: Standard, High, and e-Pedal. In Standard, it coasts like a regular car. High mode increases regen, letting you slow down without touching the brake. e-Pedal is the most aggressive—lift off the accelerator, and the car slows to a stop.

I used e-Pedal most of the time in the city. It’s great for stop-and-go traffic. But be warned: it takes some getting used to. New drivers might find it jerky at first. After a week, I loved it. I rarely touched the brake pedal in urban driving.

One tip: If you’re on a long highway stretch, switch to Standard regen. High regen can feel too strong when coasting at high speeds, making the ride less smooth.

Range and Efficiency

Range varies by trim and battery size:

• 63 kWh battery (FWD): 216 miles EPA-estimated
• 87 kWh battery (FWD): 304 miles (best-in-class for non-Tesla EVs at the time)
• 87 kWh battery (AWD): 265 miles

My 87 kWh FWD model consistently got 280-290 miles in mixed driving (60% city, 40% highway). On a 70 mph highway run, I got about 240 miles—still solid. The AWD version lost about 10-15% efficiency, which is normal for dual-motor EVs.

Pro tip: Use Nissan’s “Eco” mode for maximum range. It softens throttle response and reduces HVAC power. I gained about 10 extra miles on a full charge using it.

Charging and Practical Ownership

Charging Speed and Network

The Ariya supports DC fast charging up to 130 kW. On a 150 kW charger, it can go from 10% to 80% in about 35-40 minutes. That’s slower than a Tesla Model Y (15-20 minutes on a Supercharger) but competitive with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6.

At home, the 7.2 kW onboard charger takes about 10 hours for a full charge (87 kWh battery). If you have a 240V Level 2 charger, that’s manageable. But if you’re on a 120V outlet (like a regular wall plug), it’ll take over 30 hours—not practical for daily use.

Here’s a real-world example: I charged at a public ChargePoint station (100 kW) while shopping. In 30 minutes, I gained 100 miles of range. Enough to get home with 50 miles to spare.

Charging Network and Compatibility

The Ariya uses the CCS (Combined Charging System) connector, which is common in North America. It works with networks like ChargePoint, EVgo, and Electrify America. But here’s the catch: Nissan doesn’t include free charging, unlike Tesla’s Supercharger network.

Tip: Sign up for Electrify America’s $4/month plan. It gives you 30-minute free charging sessions. I saved about $25 on my first road trip.

Home Charging Setup

If you’re buying an Ariya, get a Level 2 charger installed. It’s a game-changer. I had a 48-amp charger installed for $600 (including labor). Now, I plug in every night, and wake up with a full battery. No range anxiety, no detours to public chargers.

Also, the Ariya has a heat pump (on all trims except the base Engage). It’s more efficient than resistive heating, which helps preserve range in cold weather. In 25°F temps, I lost about 20% range—better than most EVs.

Safety, Tech, and Ownership Costs

Nissan ProPILOT Assist 2.0

The Ariya comes with ProPILOT Assist 2.0, Nissan’s semi-autonomous driving system. It combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, with hands-free capability on mapped highways (via a driver-facing camera).

In practice, it works well on interstates. The system keeps the car centered and adjusts speed smoothly. But it’s not a full self-driving system like Tesla’s FSD. You still need to pay attention—the car will alert you to put your hands on the wheel every 30-60 seconds.

One standout feature: ProPILOT can handle stop-and-go traffic. In a 20-minute traffic jam, the car accelerated and braked automatically. I just kept my hands lightly on the wheel. It was a relief.

Safety Ratings and Features

The 2022 Ariya earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It includes:

• Automatic emergency braking (forward and reverse)
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Driver attention monitor
• Rear door alert (reminds you to check back seat)

The rear door alert saved me once—I’d forgotten my dog in the back seat after a grocery run. The car beeped when I turned off the ignition. Lifesaver.

Ownership Costs and Warranty

The Ariya starts at $43,190 (before federal tax credits). Higher trims like the Platinum+ top out at $60,190. But with the $7,500 federal EV tax credit (if eligible), the effective price drops to $35,690 for the base model.

Maintenance is minimal. No oil changes, no spark plugs. Nissan offers an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty. Tire rotations and cabin air filter replacements are the main costs.

Insurance is slightly higher than gas cars—about 10-15% more—but still lower than luxury EVs. My quote: $1,200/year (vs. $1,050 for a gas RAV4).

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Ariya?

The Nissan electric car 2022 Ariya isn’t perfect, but it’s one of the most well-rounded EVs on the market. It’s stylish, comfortable, efficient, and packed with tech. The FWD model is ideal for city drivers and commuters who want range and comfort. The AWD e-4ORCE version is for those who want a bit more thrill and all-weather confidence.

It’s not the cheapest EV, and charging speed lags behind some rivals. But if you value design, interior quality, and a balanced driving experience, the Ariya stands out. It’s not trying to be a Tesla. It’s trying to be a better Nissan—and it succeeds.

For families, the spacious interior and safety features make it a great choice. For singles or couples, the sleek design and tech will impress. And for eco-conscious drivers, the 304-mile range (FWD) means fewer charging stops on road trips.

So, should you buy one? If you’re ready to go electric and want a car that feels special without being showy, the Ariya is a strong contender. It’s not the flashiest, but it’s one of the most thoughtful EVs I’ve driven. And in a world of overhyped tech, that’s refreshing.

Quick Comparison Table: 2022 Ariya vs. Key Competitors

Model	Starting Price	Range (Max)	0-60 mph	DC Fast Charging	Warranty
Nissan Ariya (FWD)	$43,190	304 miles	7.2 sec	130 kW (35 min 10-80%)	8 yr/100k mi battery
Tesla Model Y (AWD)	$47,740	330 miles	4.8 sec	250 kW (15 min 10-80%)	8 yr/120k mi battery
Ford Mustang Mach-E	$42,995	314 miles	4.8 sec (GT)	150 kW (38 min 10-80%)	8 yr/100k mi battery
Hyundai Ioniq 5	$41,450	303 miles	5.2 sec	350 kW (18 min 10-80%)	10 yr/100k mi battery

Bottom line: The Ariya proves Nissan can compete in the EV era. It’s not just a Nissan electric car—it’s a statement of what Nissan can be. And for many drivers, that’s exactly what they’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Nissan Electric Car 2022 Ariya?

The 2022 Nissan Ariya is a fully electric SUV offering advanced tech like ProPILOT 2.0 driver assistance, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and up to 300 miles of range. It also features e-4ORCE all-wheel drive and a minimalist, premium interior design.

How does the Nissan Ariya’s performance compare to other electric SUVs?

The Ariya delivers smooth acceleration with its electric powertrain, reaching 0-60 mph in as little as 5.1 seconds (in e-4ORCE models). Its balanced handling and quiet ride make it competitive with rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

What is the range of the 2022 Nissan Ariya electric car?

The Nissan Ariya offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 300 miles on a single charge for the front-wheel-drive model with the 87 kWh battery. The dual-motor e-4ORCE version provides slightly less range, around 265 miles.

Does the Nissan Ariya support fast charging?

Yes, the 2022 Ariya supports DC fast charging at up to 130 kW, allowing it to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 40 minutes. This makes it convenient for long-distance travel.

What safety features does the Nissan Ariya include?

The Nissan Ariya comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims add ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link for semi-autonomous highway driving.

Is the Nissan Ariya a good value among 2022 electric cars?

The Ariya offers strong value with its spacious interior, cutting-edge tech, and competitive pricing starting around $43,000. With available tax credits, it’s an appealing option in the growing electric SUV market.