Nissan is pulling the plug on the Ariya in the U.S. turning its attention towards selling gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid cars, but globally, the company has rolled out a facelift to extend the EV’s life. Shortly after the world premiere of the 2026 Nissan Ariya at the Japan Mobility Show, we got to experience the changes first hand. Here are some interesting observations we made:
Design
The 2026 Nissan Ariya has subtle exterior revisions. The front fascia takes inspiration from the 2026 Nissan Leaf, which will go on sale in the U.S. soon. Darker headlamps and thicker gloss black garnish at the leading edge offer a sportier look.
The redesigned headlamps feature a distinctive dual-layer lighting signature. Sixteen vertically arranged LED elements form the primary DRL strip along the lower edge of each cluster, gradually increasing in height toward the outer corners to emphasize the vehicle’s width. A new claw-shaped extension incorporates three inward-slanted illuminated stripes, continuing the DRL pattern into the bumper area.
Nissan has replaced the faux grille featuring the traditional Japanese kumiko pattern with a continuous body-colored panel, giving the Ariya a cleaner and sleeker front end.
The redesigned lower intake has a sharper outline and integrates vertical inserts angled inward, emphasizing the A-shaped structure. The horizontal bar that now splits the opening visually widens the car, while the fog lamps from the previous model have been deleted for a more minimalist appearance.
On the sides, the 2026 Ariya features new aerodynamic alloy wheels. The rear section looks identical to the current model, with a continuous light strip, two shark-fin antennas, one of which supports the ProPILOT 2.0 hands-free driving system, and a steeply raked windscreen.
Interior
The interior of the 2026 Nissan Ariya remains largely unchanged from the outgoing model but offers improved practicality through subtle updates. Nissan has revised the center console, removing the sliding cover in favor of a simpler, more conventional layout that should hold cups more securely. Also new is a Google-powered infotainment system, offering a more user-friendly operation.
The cabin continues with a minimalist design that emphasizes digitalization. While we had hoped Nissan would replace the touch-operated climate controls on the dashboard, they remain. Also carried over are the dual floating cockpit displays, two-spoke steering wheel, genuine wood trim, and the generous use of soft-touch materials that give the interior a premium feel.
Our experience in the 2026 Nissan Ariya (facelift)
At five foot seven, I found stepping inside the facelifted 2026 Nissan Ariya easy. The floor height and wide door openings made ingress comfortable. Once in the driver’s seat, I had good back support and around four inches of headroom. Taller occupants, around six feet or more, might find the headroom a little tight. Outward visibility was clear at the front and sides, though the steeply raked rear window limited the view behind slightly, without being a major concern.
In the back, I had plenty of legroom and knee room, and the wide bench could easily seat three adults on longer trips. Headroom was tighter, at about three to four inches, which might be restrictive for taller passengers. The completely flat floor added to the sense of space, especially for the middle-seat occupant. Rear-seat amenities include two USB-C ports, air vents, two cup holders integrated into the central armrest, and heated outer seats.
Specifications
Nissan has yet to announce the specifications of the facelifted Ariya, although major updates are unlikely. In the U.S., the current model is available with 63 kWh and 87 kWh battery packs, offering up to 216 miles and 272 miles of range, respectively. Customers can choose between FWD and AWD configurations, with power outputs ranging from 214 to 389 horsepower and torque between 221 and 442 lb.-ft. The U.S.-spec Ariya accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 4.8 seconds.
Release Date
The 2026 Nissan Ariya is not planned to be launched in the U.S., but in Japan, it will go on sale at the end of 2025.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
