While we’ve brought you our first look review of the Nissan Ariya facelift from its world premiere in Japan, we saw a different version at Auto Zurich 2025.
On paper, the Ariya Nismo variant is comparable to the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, and the Tesla Model Y Performance, but what differentiates is that it won’t be sold in the U.S. as Nissan has pulled the plug on the Ariya here.
Having spent some time around the Nissan Ariya Nismo, here’s what the U.S. doesn’t get to enjoy:
Design
The Nissan Ariya Nismo retains the clean, sculpted look of the standard vehicle, while gaining performance-spec details. The front end features Nismo-specific aero components such as an air curtain, front splitter, and canard-style vortex generators that help reduce drag.
The ducktail rear spoiler and twin diffuser further enhance the look, as well as stability at speed, cutting lift by around 40% compared to the regular model, as per Nissan. The midsize SUV is hoisted on unique 20-inch gloss black ENKEI alloy wheels paired with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires.
Other features include LED headlights and daytime running lights, and Nismo-exclusive rear fog lamps inspired by Nissan’s Formula E car. Dark chrome window moldings, a shark fin antenna, and body-colored mirrors with red accents complete the look.
Interior
Inside, the Ariya Nismo borrows the basic setup of the regular Ariya, but with sport-focused details. The seats are trimmed in a suede-like material with integrated Nismo logos and offer additional lateral support.
Red stitching on the steering wheel, dashboard, and doors, alongside red accents in different parts of the cabin definitely make it sportier. The interior also features new digital gauge designs and a blackened wood trim.
Coming to the equipment, the Nismo variant gets a 12.3-inch dual display, head-up display, 10-speaker Bose audio, wireless phone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a virtual personal assistant with over-the-air updates.
Experience in the Ariya Nismo
At six feet tall, I found getting in and out of the front seats of the Ariya Nismo easy. The seating position felt upright and confident, and the side bolstering is at the right level. The heated, two-spoke steering wheel had a comfortable grip, and its manual tilt and telescopic adjustment allowed me to fine-tune the position easily. Legroom and headroom were generous, and both under-thigh and lumbar support felt well-designed for long drives.
Moving to the rear, entry and exit were still comfortable, though the sloping roofline required a little extra care. The design slightly limits headroom, and anyone taller than six feet might brush the headliner.
Legroom and knee room were excellent, allowing me to sit comfortably without feeling confined. The under-thigh support in the back was decent, though understandably not as substantial as in the front seats. The rear bench, which splits 60:40, was wide enough to seat three adults and offered a recline function for added comfort.
Unlike the standard version, the outboard rear seats weren’t heated. That said, the flat floor created by the EV platform enhances space and comfort for the middle occupant. Rear air vents and a center armrest add practicality for daily use.
Specifications
The Ariya Nismo uses the same 87 kWh (usable) battery pack as the standard model, but is paired with a higher-output dual-motor setup producing 320 kW (429 hp) and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque.
Power delivery is managed by a uniquely calibrated AWD system capable of adjusting torque distribution 10,000 times per second. With a 60:40 rear bias, it is configured to deliver a more engaging drive.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) takes 5 seconds. The responsiveness of the powertrain is enhanced through a dedicated Nismo drive mode, while the suspension receives revised stabilizers, spring rates, and damper tuning for better handling. The steering system has also been retuned to offer more feedback.
The braking system features vented discs at both ends and Nissan’s i-Booster technology, which refines regenerative braking and increases stopping power. The chassis retains an independent MacPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear.
Pricing
The Ariya Nismo is available in the global market as the top-end variant in the lineup. In the UK, it is priced at £56,630, which is around 29 percent more expensive than the high-spec standard Ariya.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
