9 Nissan Ariya

Nissan has revealed the Ariya, its new electric SUV that will launch next year.

The new model, billed as a coupe crossover, features futuristic styling that is largely based on the concept model show at the Tokyo Motor Show last year.

It is offered with a range of power outputs and battery sizes, giving a range of up to 310 miles.

The styling reflects the car’s electric underpinnings, with short overhangs and a closed grille.

Nissan’s new logo features in the center of the front panel, illuminated by LEDs and flanked by additional running lights to signal to others that the car is switched on.

The raked roofline and large 19-inch alloy wheels give a sporty appearance, when compared to the brand’s other electric model.

Inside, there is a departure from Nissan’s existing interior design. The Ariya does away with clumsy switchgear and, instead, features an array of touch sensitive ‘buttons’.

Two 12-inch screens dominate the dashboard, providing digital instruments and infotainment.

Space is maximized thanks to a flat floor and open space under the instrument panel, enabled by clever packaging of the compact electric powertrain.

Nissan says there is enough sound-deadening to provide an ‘exceptionally quiet’ drive.

Five core models will be offered for the European market, including two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions.

The entry-level Ariya 63kWh two-wheel-drive model has a range of up to 223 miles and delivers 217PS.

A larger 87kWh battery can be specified, boosting range (on two-wheel-drive models) to the maximum 310 miles. It develops more power too, with 242PS, although this doesn’t result in faster acceleration due to the heavier battery pack.

All-wheel-drive versions are known as e-4ORCE and are offered with the same 63kWh and 87kWh battery packs, but have two electric motors instead of one.

Power outputs are 278PS (63kWh) and 306PS (87kWh), with ranges of 211 miles and 285 miles respectively.

A Performance version is also available with 394PS and 600Nm. It uses the larger battery and has a range of 248 miles.

Nissan says the car will be fun to drive as a result of its centrally mounted battery pack giving a low centre of gravity.

The Nissan Ariya 63kWh versions carry a 7.4kW charger for domestic use, while the 87kWh include a 22kW three-phase charger for home charging. The Ariya can also support quick charging up to 130kW for peace of mind during long journeys.

Pricing and specification details are expected to be announced in the next few months.