Nissan’s electric SUV is due for its first major refresh. The new Nissan Ariya broke its cover, revealing a design closer to the 2026 LEAF, but those in the US won’t get to see it.
The 2026 Nissan Ariya looks like new LEAF
We are finally getting our first look at the new 2026 Nissan Ariya, which will arrive with a fresh new look, updated infotainment, and a smoother ride.
Nissan gave us a sneak peek of the new electric SUV ahead of its official debut at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show.
The new Ariya drops the black, closed-off grille and air intakes for a cleaner, minimalist look similar to the third-generation LEAF. It also adopts the LEAF’s slim, angled LED light design. Nissan said the new front-end design “exudes a more advanced and high-quality feel.”
Although the front end was fully revealed, we still have yet to see what the rear will look like. Like the 2026 LEAF (which we already got to test out), it will likely arrive with a cleaner shape and updated lights.
Nissan confirmed the new electric SUV will feature a new infotainment system with Google built in. It will also gain vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities. Both of which are already featured in the new LEAF.
With an updated suspension, Nissan said the updated Ariya will feel more comfortable to drive. We will learn more, including prices, range, and other specs, closer to launch.
The new Nissan Ariya will debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, which starts on October 31. It will launch in Japan later this fiscal year, followed by overseas markets.
However, those in the US won’t get to see the updates. Nissan is dropping the Ariya SUV from its US lineup for the 2026 model year as it focuses on launching the new LEAF. The automaker said it will still support current owners, but whether it will return for a 2027 model year remains unclear.
The 2025 Nissan Ariya starts at just under $40,000 in the US with an EPA-estimated driving range of 216 miles. The longer range model, with 289 miles of range, starts at $44,370.
Nissan said the 2026 LEAF will have the lowest starting MSRP of any new EV currently on sale in the US, priced from just $29,990.
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