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It’s called the Ariya, and I got to drive it.
Tim Levin/Insider
Let me show you around the new Tesla rival and tell you everything you need to know.
Tim Levin/Insider
The 2023 Ariya SUV comes in a variety of trim levels and battery sizes. The cheapest model retails for $43,190.
Tim Levin/Insider
All-wheel drive is optional and adds an extra motor. The SUV I tested was front-wheel drive.
Tim Levin/Insider
When it comes to styling, the Ariya isn’t quite as futuristic looking as a Kia EV6 or Polestar 2, but it isn’t boring either. It’s stylish and somewhat distinctive, but not over the top.
Tim Levin/Insider
Hop inside and you’re greeted by a surprisingly spacious and upscale-feeling interior.
Tim Levin/Insider
My test car had leatherette seats, faux-wood trim, and a big moonroof.
Tim Levin/Insider
Without an engine taking up space, electric cars offer a lot more packaging flexibility than gas vehicles, often creating more room for passengers and cargo.
Tim Levin/Insider
Nissan created a large open space in front of the center console, which makes the whole cabin feel airy instead of cramped.
Tim Levin/Insider
The back seats are roomy. Even with the driver’s seat all the way back, I still had ample legroom.
Tim Levin/Insider
Plus, back-seat passengers get USB ports and, optionally, heated seats.
Tim Levin/Insider
One quirk of the Ariya: You can choose an adjustable center console that moves forward and backward using little buttons facing the driver.
Tim Levin/Insider
Slim air vents running across the width of the vehicle and a lack of buttons add to the minimalist, uncluttered vibe.
Tim Levin/Insider
Capacitive buttons — the kind you tap rather than click — are integrated into wood pieces on the dashboard and center console.
Tim Levin/Insider
That means you don’t have to use the touchscreen for some of the most-used functions, like the temperature and fan speed.
Tim Levin/Insider
You can use it as a little desk if you keep the cover on.
Tim Levin/Insider
Drivers get a digital gauge cluster and a touchscreen on a curved panel.
Tim Levin/Insider
Both screens are easy to read and operate.
Tim Levin/Insider
The Ariya drives a lot like other mainstream electric SUVs. It’s quiet and smooth.
Tim Levin/Insider
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