A Magic Flying Carpet or a Modern EV? The Revolutionary Design and Capability of the Nissan ARIYA and LEAF

Have you heard the news? The future is electric, which means your online search for "Nissan dealer near me" just got even more exciting. That search brought you to L.A. Nissan, where we're excited to introduce you to the all-electric LEAF and ARIYA. These EVs embody Nissan's vision to build a zero-emission future with an all-new EV lineup by 2030. Once you see the LEAF and ARIYA, you'll realize that Nissan is already off to a great start on accomplishing its goal.

But what's the difference between the LEAF and ARIYA? What makes Nissan's EV lineup so remarkable? As your Nissan authority, we're excited to answer those questions and introduce you to an exciting and electrified future that will forever change how you drive.

Nissan's Electric Platform: Meet the Magic Flying Carpet

Over the last decade, automakers like Nissan relied on existing platforms to accommodate hybrid and electric powertrains. There wasn't a need to reinvent the wheel until now, which prompted Nissan to create its stunning electric vehicle architecture known as the CMF-EV platform. Fondly known as the "magic flying carpet," the platform is revolutionary for Nissan because it's designed specifically for its electric models. Why is this important?

Configurable Space

Think about the biggest difference between a vehicle powered by an electric motor and one powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE). Internal combustion engines are instantly recognizable because they're usually loud, large, and positioned under the hood. In contrast, electric motors are smaller, quieter, and placed under the rear seat near the axle. Using an ICE platform to accommodate an EV is like fitting a square peg into a round hole. The CMF-EV architecture leverages the EV's layout to maximize space in models like the ARIYA.

The CMF-EV's magic flying carpet design is akin to an open floor concept that uses every available space. For example, the ARIYA's air conditioning unit is positioned further forward to give you and your passengers more room in the cabin. The platform also allows further customization since the centre console can be moved and repositioned. These small changes distinguish the ARIYA and the future of Nissan's EV lineup, showcasing Nissan's ongoing commitment to giving drivers more of what they want and need in their vehicles. In this case, it's electric power and a spacious and versatile cabin fit for a king or queen.

Configurable Power

Beyond making use of every corner of space, the configurable CMF-EV platform is flexible so that you can configure the power and performance you need in models like the ARIYA. For example, the platform's modular design gives you a choice between a 63 kWh battery ideal for urban commuters or an 87 kWh battery designed for drivers who travel further distances. This range of power is only bettered by Nissan's revolutionary e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system in which the "e" stands for the 100% electric motor drive system, and the "4" stands for all-wheel-control.

On the ARIYA, the e-4ORCE system equips the crossover with twin electric motors that extend its capability on any terrain and give you optimal control behind the wheel. It does this by constantly monitoring the motor, braking, and acceleration to optimize the balance between the front and rear of the crossover. By also delivering independent brake control to every wheel, the system ensures a smooth ride and optimal traction in nearly any condition.

ARIYA vs. LEAF: What's the Difference?

There are several notable differences between the ARIYA and LEAF that extend beyond what the eye can see. The most obvious difference is that the LEAF is a subcompact hatchback that sits lower to the ground, while the ARIYA is a crossover SUV that's taller and longer. This difference makes the ARIYA better suited for hauling more passengers and cargo. It's also the result of the ARIYA's CMF-EV platform, which Nissan hasn't implemented on the LEAF. So what else distinguishes the models?

Power and Range

The 2022 LEAF comes standard with a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 110 kW electric motor that delivers 147 horsepower, 236 lb-ft of near-instant torque, and a range of 240 km. Opting for the LEAF PLUS extends the hatchback's capability and performance by adding a 62 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 160 kW motor that delivers 214 horsepower, 250 lb-ft of near-instant torque, and a range up to 363 km. How does this compare to the ARIYA?

On the ARIYA, Nissan gives you a choice between a 63 kWh or 87 kWh battery with or without Nissan's e-4ORCE all-wheel-control system. When equipped with the 63 kWh battery, the front-wheel-drive ARIYA delivers 214 horsepower, 221 lb-ft of near-instant torque, and a range of 346 km. Opting for the all-wheel-drive ARIYA increases this capability to 335 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of near-instant torque while slightly decreasing the SUV's range to 330 km.

For drivers who plan to travel further distances, the 87 kWh battery is an excellent update to the ARIYA and extends its range to 482 km on front-wheel-drive models. The battery also delivers more power but the same torque rating as the 63 kWh battery at 238 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. The ARIYA is even more engaging to drive when you opt for the ARIYA with e-4ORCE, as the dual motors deliver 389 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of near-instant torque. Surprisingly, this increase in power doesn't drastically reduce the ARIYA's range, with the all-wheel-drive model averaging 426 km.

Interior Design

Beyond the differences in power and range, the ARIYA and LEAF are also unique in their interior designs. Because the ARIYA is built on the CMF-EV platform, its cabin is remarkably different from the LEAF and features an open floor plan that gives you and your passengers more head, leg, and shoulder room. This spaciousness is possible since the new platform uses every available space, such as pushing the climate control unit under the hood to streamline the design and minimize obstructions. In addition, by adopting a minimalist approach to the ARIYA's design, Nissan adds modern sophistication to the SUV. These modern details are especially apparent in the integrated climate control buttons that are part of the wooden dashboard and the mobile centre console that doubles as a workspace or picnic table.

You won't find this level of configurable space in the LEAF; however, that isn't to say the hatchback isn't spacious. Its layout is thoughtfully designed and adopts Nissan's "Gliding Wing" design motto, favouring minimalism and clean lines to create an understated aesthetic. This is noticeable in the LEAF's digital displays, which are intuitive and straightforward so that you spend more time focusing on the road and enjoying the drive.

Drive Into the Future in Style

Nissan's vision for an all-electric future is off to an excellent start with the LEAF and ARIYA. The LEAF is the cornerstone of Nissan's EV segment and made history as the first mass-market electric vehicle available worldwide. Coincidentally, the LEAF also proved that adopting an all-electric lifestyle didn't have to cost a fortune, demonstrating as much with its affordable price tag and impressive range.

Today, Nissan's ambitious plan for its future EV lineup reaches the next level with the CMF-EV platform that makes its official debut on the ARIYA. This magic flying carpet is undeniably impressive because of its specific application to Nissan's EV fleet and its ability to maximize space. As a result, Nissan's magic carpet delivers a longer, lighter, and more spacious SUV entirely configurable to your needs. In a world where customization is in high demand, the ARIYA is set to impress and is a great way to drive into an all-electric future in style.