Nissan Discontinues This EV in the US, Then Revamps It for Global Markets | Carscoops

      The 2026 Ariya features a cleaner front design, a new infotainment system powered by Google, and enhanced ride comfort, along with updated pricing for the Japanese market.

      Nissan has unveiled the refreshed Ariya in Japan, providing new aesthetics and various upgrades to the electric crossover nearly four years after its initial introduction. Although the Ariya is exiting the North American market, it remains strong in its home country with improvements in design, technology, and suspension tuning.

      The 2026 model was initially showcased at the Japan Mobility Show earlier this year, but Nissan has now disclosed the complete domestic lineup. Similar modifications are anticipated to be introduced in other regions in the coming months.

      New Appearance, Same Dimensions

      The most prominent alteration is at the front, where a sleeker, grille-less style replaces the previous fascia. A redesigned bumper and more pronounced LED accents enhance the look, while the side profile and rear remain unchanged.

      Complementing these visual updates is a new set of 20-inch alloy wheels made from a combination of aluminum and resin materials. Buyers can also opt for a new Hisuinohikari paint choice, featuring a striking Plasma Green body with contrasting Midnight Black details on the roof, pillars, and lower cladding.

      On the inside, the cabin layout stays consistent, but the technology has advanced. NissanConnect now operates on Google's software framework, introducing new features such as Navi-Link Battery Conditioning and Intelligent Distance Control.

      The materials team has introduced a new leather option in a muted green shade, combined with light gray accents for a softer, more sophisticated interior appearance. Practicality is enhanced as well, thanks to an upgraded AC external power connector that can provide 1,500 Watts, even when the vehicle is locked.

      Powertrain and Suspension

      Mechanically, the Ariya retains the existing 66 kWh (B6) and 91 kWh (B9) battery packs, available with single-motor front-wheel drive or dual-motor e-4ORCE all-wheel drive. Nissan indicates that the suspension has been optimized for Japanese roads, focusing on comfort and delivering a more refined ride.

      The Ariya Nismo is also set to return in the updated range, but it does not feature the aesthetic changes seen in the standard models, retaining its original aggressive styling.

      The Nismo variant continues to employ its dual-motor e-4ORCE setup, specifically tuned for this model. Its enhancements are limited to the new Google-based infotainment system, the high-output external power connector, and the Intelligent Distance Control feature.

      Regarding pricing, the updated Ariya starts at ¥6,675,900 (approximately $42,400 at current exchange rates) for the base B6 FWD and rises to ¥8,072,900 (about $51,300) for the B9 e-4ORCE, marking an increase of ¥85,800 ($550) compared to the prior version. Details on the updated Ariya Nismo pricing will be disclosed later.