2023 NISSAN ARIYA

The Ariya's $44,485 starting price puts it above the Leaf and other affordable EVs but under the base price of the Model Y, but that entry-level Engage model comes with a smaller battery pack and a lower 216-mile estimated driving range. The $49,000 Venture+ trim boasts the longest driving range among the Ariya's four trim levels at 304 miles per charge.

The Venture+'s 304 miles of driving range, is quite a step up from the Leaf's maximum range of 226 miles. The Evolve+, Empower+, and Premiere models offer up to 289 miles per charge and the top-spec Platinum+ is supposedly good for up to 265. Going with the base Engage trim requires compromising on range due to that model's smaller battery pack which is rated for only 216 miles per charge. The Ariya is capable of charging at home on 110- or 240-volt outlets as well as at public charging stations and even DC fast-charging ports.

It's a bit disappointing to not see a fully loaded trim with AWD that achieves 300 MPH.

Driving the Ariya is definitely just as engaging as any other Model-Y competitor I've driven. The VW ID4, Kia EV6, Hyundai ionic 5 and Genesis GV60 come to mind in this price range.

Personally, if I were in the market for a Nissan, this would be my first choice.

Otherwise, I'd take the VW ID4.

The Model Y's boring, plain and lackluster interior is the main reason I couldn't give my money to Tesla.