The Nissan Ariya vs. Tesla Model Y
Is the Nissan Ariya the best new electric SUV? How does this compact crossover compare with the Tesla Model Y? We look at the Nissan Ariya vs. Tesla Model Y.
Written by Elaine Duvet
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
If you’re
on a budget
, but can’t get the Tesla Model Y
out of your head, you might be more satisfied with a breathtaking Nissan Ariya. Considered the future of Nissan, the Ariya is replacing the best-selling Leaf lineup. When it comes to the Nissan Ariya vs. Tesla Model Y, which electric crossover offers the most significant advantages for a crossover SUV?
Jerry
, the car ownership super app
, breaks it down.Nissan Ariya vs. Tesla Model Y: Range and performance
If you’re familiar with the electric vehicle scene, you know that the Nissan Leaf EV is one of the most popular vehicles in its class. It wasn’t until the Tesla Model S was later introduced, that the less expensive Leaf had some major competition. Now the two brands are going head to head with the Nissan Ariya and Tesla Model Y crossovers.
If you opt for a Tesla Model Y, there is no standard range model. Buyers can choose between a Performance or Long-Range trim. The Model Y Long Range will set you back $57,990 and offers a 330-mile range.
Either trim will offer drivers exceptional traction control and dual motors with all-wheel drive. According to
HotCars
, “While the Long-Range model gets a powerful motor for the rear axle and a less powerful one on the front, producing a combined output of 434 hp, the performance trim increases this to 483 hp.” The Model Y Long-Range can reach a top speed of 135 mph and jump from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. It only takes 3.6 seconds for the Performance trim to hit 60 mph, with a top speed of 155 mph.
If you’re looking at the Nissan Ariya vs. Tesla Model Y and want to do some serious customizations, the 2023 Nissan Ariya has got your back.
Drivers can choose between standard or extended range trims, as well as single or dual-motor variants. “While North America will only receive the 91kWh battery option, European models will have the 66kWh battery option as standard and the 91kWh option as an extended range,” HotCars tells us.
The standard trim Ariya pumps out 235 hp, while the e4orce all-wheel-drive trim cranks out an impressive 389 hp. For $45,950, the base 2023 Nissan Ariya Venture+ has a 300-mile driving range. But with only a 30-mile difference per charge, are those few extra miles really worth paying an extra $12,040 for the Model Y?
MORE: A Next-Generation Leaf? A Look at the Nissan Chill-Out Concept
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Nissan Ariya vs. Tesla Model Y: Functionality and design
The versatile Model Y offers drivers high functionality with a minimalist design. The hatchback SUV can seat up to seven people and features second-row seats that fold flat offering passengers plenty of storage. However, the seats in the third row aren’t as comfortable for riders as we would have hoped.
The Tesla’s interior features a striking 15.4-inch touchscreen and “the only physical controls are the steering controls and the electric door opening and closing buttons,” HotCars notes. And of course, the brand’s famous Autopilot is also available.
The 2023 Nissan Ariya has helped transition the Japaneseautomaker into the modern era. According to HotCars, “Nissan has prioritized luxury and comfort over high performance while offering enough grunts for the occasional adrenaline rush for its future in the EV crossover market.”
Based on the CMF-EV platform from Mitsubishi and Nissan, the five-seater features a 3D Japanese Kumiko pattern on its front end. Though you won’t find physical buttons on the inside, you’ll get a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Owners will also receive 59.7 cubic feet of storage, compared to the Model Y’s 30.2 cubic feet.
So what’s the best crossover?
While we have mad love and respect for Tesla, the Model Y doesn’t offer the same high standards we’re used to seeing from the dominant manufacturer. It also doesn’t quite stack up to other crossovers when it comes to overall value.
Because the Nissan Ariya is critical for Nissan’s future success, the love, care and attention to detail are evident in this EV. “Focusing on comfort and luxury, Nissan has done a pretty good job ensuring a comfortable ride with the Ariya,” HotCars notes.
If you’re all about extreme performance and superb acceleration, the Model Y is your best bet. However, with 389 hp and a 310-mile range with its long-range variant, the 2023 Nissan Ariya beats out the Tesla Model Y with its unique offerings, practicality, and price.
According to
MotorBiscuit
, “When buying an electric crossover, the price of the vehicle is of the utmost importance. Not only is the Ariya affordable, but it might also become even more so when the other trim levels are announced.”New Ariya models will be available in the fall of 2022.
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