The car is built on the EVP platform. The Ariya is 4600 mm long, 1920 mm wide, and 1630 mm high. Thus, in terms of its dimensions, the crossover is comparable to the Nissan X-Trail. The car's design resembles the Nissan Leaf and the IMx concept, which was shown back in 2017. The all-road vehicle with a coupe-like silhouette features short overhangs, massive fenders, 21-inch alloy wheels, and narrow LED headlights. The traditional radiator grille has been replaced by a block with a geometric pattern, which the company calls a "shield."
"Inside the 'shield' there is an innovative 3D structure. This is not just a cosmetic innovation, but a way to draw attention to the technologies implemented in the car. In this case, it is a radar sensor and other systems that help the Ariya concept 'read' road conditions and visualize what the driver cannot see," said Alfonso Albaisa, Nissan's senior vice president for global design.
Inside the Ariya, a minimum of analog buttons and mechanical switches are used — most functions can be controlled using touch-sensitive instruments integrated into the control panel. The exceptions are the power button for the electric powertrain, a rotary-push controller for the 12.3-inch display, and climate control switches. Natural wood, leather, and aluminum were used in the interior design.
The new model is equipped with the proprietary ProPilot function. The electronics can independently control the car within the lane, managing steering, accelerator, and brakes. However, the driver must always keep their hands on the steering wheel. Using the navigation system and special sensors that assess the situation around the car with 360-degree coverage, the technology can independently determine the appropriate moment for a turn or overtaking. The system can also park the car independently.
In addition, the driver has access to the smart navigation system Door to Door Navigation and a virtual assistant that will always help in finding necessary information, a parking spot, or a charging station. The crossover has also learned to remember the driver's personal settings and activate them when the driver approaches the car.
The crossover is equipped with two electric motors and an all-wheel drive system. However, the dynamic characteristics of the Ariya are not yet known. According to unofficial data, the new model will be able to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in less than five seconds, and the battery pack will allow driving up to 480 kilometers without recharging.
