A NEW version of a popular electric SUV has been revealed following a year of financial difficulties.
Originally launched in 2022, the mid-sized model quickly became a strong contender in the growing family EV market.
The model is set to be a strong contender in the family EV market again[/caption]
The Ariya is receiving its first major update[/caption]
Now, the motor giant is showcasing a sleeker design, upgraded technology and engineering changes, aimed at delivering a quieter, more refined drive.
The car in question is the Nissan Ariya, which now sports a sharper, more modern look.
Now, it’s receiving its first major update. The refreshed version will go on sale in Japan next spring, with a UK release expected to follow later in the year.
The once-prominent black front panel has been replaced with a cleaner design, flanked by slimmer LED headlights and a revised lower air intake.
The styling closely echoes the brand’s upcoming third-generation Leaf, set to arrive in the UK before the end of this year.
While Nissan has yet to reveal images of the rear, the updated front end hints at a more cohesive and premium overall design.
The company has confirmed a number of updates, including a new Google-powered infotainment system already seen in the latest Qashqai and Leaf, as well as vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, allowing owners to power small devices directly from the car’s battery.
Suspension improvements have also been promised for the Japanese-market version, although it’s not yet clear whether these changes will extend to UK models.
The Ariya’s range and performance are also expected to be boosted.
The current 63kWh model offers up to 250 miles, while the 87kWh version can reach around 329 miles on a full charge.
With the smaller new Leaf capable of up to 370 miles, Nissan is likely to increase the Ariya’s efficiency to maintain its position at the top of the brand’s electric line-up.
With its updated design, smarter software and enhanced electric features, the new Ariya represents a thoughtful evolution of one of Nissan’s most distinctive EVs.
The refreshed Ariya will make its official debut on October 29 at the Japan Mobility Show, where it will appear alongside several new Japan-only models.
Nissan is currently facing significant financial challenges.
The company reported a substantial $4.5 billion net loss over its last financial year and is thought to be approximately $4.8 billion in debt.
Efforts to find a solution included a potential merger with Honda earlier this year, which did not proceed.
The British Government threw a lifeline for the struggling car brand, when UK Export Finance underwrote a £1 billion loan to keep the company afloat.
The company has initiated a major restructuring plan that includes the planned closure of several production plants, impacting numerous employees.
Earlier this year the manufacturer announced 20,000 job losses, seven factory closures and a pause on all post-2026 new car development.
Furthermore, reliability surveys have highlighted specific issues.
The petrol-powered Nissan Juke (models from 2019 onward) was identified as the least reliable used car in the UK by the What Car? 2025 Reliability Survey.
The survey indicated common problems involving engine and battery failures, with 60% of faults resulting in repair costs exceeding £1,500.
Nissan also issued six separate recalls earlier this year.
One major action involved recalling over 440,000 cars in the US, including models like the Rogue, Altima, Infiniti QX50, and QX55.
The revamped Ariya will make its official debut on October 29 in Japan[/caption]
