If you’re expecting the Ariya to be another polite, whisper-quiet EV that apologises for existing, you’re in for a shock. This thing punches harder than a caffeine-deprived kangaroo in a pub car park.
Nissan’s been playing the long game. While everyone else was busy shouting about 0-100km/h times and lap records, the Japanese giant was quietly building an electric SUV that doesn’t just do the numbers – it feels like it means them.
The 2026 Ariya Evolve, is the twin motor all-wheel drive flagship EV that’s finally given Nissan a seat at the grown-ups’ table. So, let’s get the nerdy stuff out of the way first. It packs 290kW and 600Nm.
That’s enough to sling this 2.2-tonne crossover from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds. Not Tesla Plaid quick, but fast enough that it will make your passenger swear softly into their soy latte. But here’s the twist – it’s not just about straight-line grunt.
Nissan’s E-4ORCE system (yes, that’s the actual name, and no, we didn’t sneeze while typing it), is a clever bit of torque-vectoring witchcraft. Throw the Ariya into a corner and it rotates.
Not in a scary, “we’re about to die” way, but in a controlled, almost playful manner. Think of it as a sumo wrestler who’s secretly been doing ballet. Inside, it’s like stepping into a boutique hotel in downtown Tokyo.
The dash is a minimalist dream – no buttons, no clutter, just two 12.3-inch screens fused into one long, curved display. The wood-effect trim hides haptic feedback controls that actually work.
The seats are softer than a politician’s promise, but with more follow-through. On the road, the Ariya Evolve is deceptively rapid. Plant your right foot and there’s no drama, just a silent surge that pins you back like you’ve insulted a bouncer.
The ride’s supple, even on 20-inch alloys. The cabin is quieter than a Melbourne café during a grand final. Range is a claimed 487km. In the real world – with highways, hills and the occasional “let’s see what this thing can do” moment – expect closer to 420km.
It’s still more than enough to get you from Sydney to Canberra, provided you don’t drive like you’re being chased by a chopper. Charging from the 87kWh battery tops out at 130kW on a DC fast charger.
It’s not class leading by any means, but a 10 to 80 per cent top up takes around 35 minutes – or just enough time to grab a flat white and question your life choices. Now, to the price. The Ariya Evolve E-4ORCE opens at $77,229 drive away.
That’s not pocket change, but it undercuts the BMW i4 and Tesla Model Y Performance – while feeling more premium than both. But not all is perfect, as you might have expected. The steering’s a touch numb, and the regenerative braking could be stronger.
Using Nissan’s voice control for simple things like adjusting the temperature is as frustrating as a Bluetooth connection at a family BBQ. Overall though, the Ariya Evolve is a triumph.
It’s the first Nissan in years that doesn’t feel like it was designed exclusively for retirees or ride-share drivers. It’s fast, comfortable, and – dare we say it – cool. Even the colours are mint, including two-tone Akatsura Copper (with a black roof).
There’s also Pearl Black, Aurora Green, Ceramic Grey or Blue Pearl (with a black roof), and Gun Metallic. If this is what Nissan’s future looks like, then it’s wearing sunnies and doing burnouts in a supermarket carpark.
Would we buy one? In a heartbeat. Just don’t tell the kangaroo. You can find out more on their Australian website, or by talking to your local dealership.
To get a low rate finance quote, talk to Australia’s best reviewed car finance broker; Credit One. To see a great range of vehicles for sale, check out OnlyCars.com.au.
Our test vehicle was provided by Nissan Australia for independent review purposes. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this vehicle.
