MOTORING REVIEW: Nissan’s Ariya Nismo has electric performance

Nissan started producing its Nismo high-performance cars in 1984, when it combined its two racing divisions to form Nissan Motorsports International Co Ltd (NISMO for short). A Nismo-badged car first appeared at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1986, and since then, many more have followed.

The latest to bear the badge is the Ariya Nismo electric SUV, introduced in January 2024, with up to 430 horsepower and built on the same platform as the standard Ariya BEV compact crossover, which has been in production since January 2022. This was the carmaker's first zero-emissions SUV, also based on a dedicated EV platform.

The Ariya Nismo is eye-catchingly distinctive. It is larger than the Nissan Leaf and somewhat bigger than the Qashqai. The design is more aggressive than the standard Ariya's, while retaining the grey exterior colour typical of previous Nismo models. This look is enhanced by red accents on the mirrors and side skirts, along with all the Nismo badging. Impressive 20-inch Enkei alloy wheels complement the sporty appearance. The model features a more aerodynamic profile, including a sportier front bumper and grille, LED headlamps and daytime running lights, front and rear fog lamps, LED taillights, and a power tailgate. The exterior styling includes a rear twin diffuser and a ‘ducktail’ spoiler — a small spoiler inspired by Nissan’s racing heritage that improves aerodynamics compared to the standard Ariya and increases tailgate rigidity.

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Inside, the high-quality interior features red lighting that creates a warm glow and numerous red accents. Key features include dual 12.3-inch TFT screens with colourful, though somewhat dated-looking graphics, wireless Apple CarPlay, cabled Android Auto, an Intelligent Personal Assistant, Nissan Connect Services, and a 360-degree around-view monitor with a bird’s-eye view when reversing. My test car also had a Head-Up Display; a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a BOSE sound system. 

The front seats are uniquely styled with sporty bolsters to keep you securely in place. They are upholstered in a suede-like material with red stitching, offer power adjustments —including a lumbar setting for the driver — and are heated. Nismo logos are embroidered on the headrests. The lower dash features wood trim housing dual-zone climate controls, fan, windscreen and rear-window heaters, and a prominent red power button. The parking brake is located beside the gear lever on the flat central console. Below are the drive modes: Nismo mode for enhanced performance and acceleration, Standard, Eco, Snow, and the e-Pedal button for driving mainly with the accelerator. 

Rear seats comfortably accommodate three adults and split 60/40. There is ample head, knee, and foot room. Boot capacity is 408 litres, less than the 466 litres offered by the standard Ariya.

Nissan’s advanced E-4ORCE all-wheel control technology provides a balance of power and comfort, enhancing stability. It uses two electric motors to independently power each axle, improving handling and steering. The additional motor reduces rear boot space available in FWD models. 

The Ariya Nismo is well equipped with dual-zone auto climate control, Type A and Type C USB ports front and rear, a 12V power socket, seat back pockets, and a rear armrest. Safety features include blind-spot monitors with intervention, integrated into the ProPILOT Assist suite, which includes Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, junction assist, forward collision warning, rear emergency braking, cross-traffic alert, Traffic Jam Pilot, and parking sensors.

With its 87kWh battery, the claimed WLTP range is 419km, though real-world figures may be lower depending on driving style and weather. Charging from 10% to 80% with a 130kW DC fast charger takes around 35-40 minutes; a full charge at home via AC can take up to 14 hours. The dual motors produce approximately 429hp (320kW) and 600 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100km/h sprint in 5.0 seconds.

On the road, the car delivers swift acceleration and precise cornering, with upgraded springs, dampers, and a stabiliser bar for a more dynamic suspension. The ride is quite firm, though more comfortable on motorways. This high-performance model is suitable as a practical family vehicle with an added edge when required.

The Ariya Nismo does not have a separate Euro NCAP rating, but the standard Ariya on which it is based was awarded a maximum 5-star safety rating in 2022.

Priced at €68,495. Road tax €120.