During the Tokyo Auto Salon, the performance branch of the manufacturer Nissan presented two sports variants of the Ariya electric family SUV, offering powers of 362 hp and 429 hp. In addition, the sports equipment and handling have been improved.
The Nissan Ariya, an electric family SUV, has been transformed into a sharper version by Nissan’s Nismo division. Unveiled as part of the Tokyo Auto Salon, this new variant promises increased performance and a sporty design. It is supposed to overshadow the Kia EV6 GT or Skoda Enyaq RS for example.
Power and Performance
The Nissan Ariya Nismo comes in two versions, both equipped with Nissan’s e-4ORCE technology for all-wheel drive. The B6 version offers a combined power of 362 hp and 560 Nm of torque, while the B9 variant goes up to 429 hp with 600 Nm of torque. These figures put the Ariya Nismo in competition with models such as the Kia EV6 GT (577 hp and 740 Nm) or the Tesla Model Y Performance. However, the latter still remains ahead with 527 hp and 660 Nm.
Beyond the numbers, Nismo has made significant improvements to the Ariya’s chassis, with 20-inch aluminum wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires as well as sharper running gear tuning. These modifications provide better stability and improved handling, especially when cornering and at high speeds. Also, a new Nismo driving mode has been added, offering more responsive acceleration and an artificial soundtrack inspired by Formula E.
For the moment Nissan does not communicate on the performance figures, but the classic version of the Ariya which already offers 394 hp and 5.1 seconds to go from 0 to 100 km/h. The B9 version with 429 hp should therefore significantly improve performance. The latter is powered by a 91 kWh battery and the small performance version which makes do with 362 hp is powered by a 66 kWh battery. The ranges should respectively be 500 km for the first and 400 km for the second.
Improved aerodynamics and equipment
Aerodynamic performance is improved through racing-derived technologies, which reduce drag and provide greater downforce at high speeds, factors that are particularly important for electric vehicles. New body components have been added, for example at the front the car is equipped with redesigned bumpers with a more pronounced splitter and enlarged air intakes, while the rear benefits from a spoiler on the tailgate and a bumper incorporating a diffuser and a taillight inspired by Formula 1.
In terms of looks too, we find the signature of the Nismo preparer with red edging which goes around the body, as well as in the passenger compartment going from the central console to the steering wheel, including the steering wheel and the seats. The latter also provide better support with their bucket shape.
Price and availability
For the moment no price has been announced, but the Ariya Nismo will first be available in Japan this spring, with possible marketing in other markets. Its arrival in Europe has not yet been confirmed, but the growing interest in sporty electric SUVs in Europe suggests a possible introduction in our region.
Source : Nissan
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