VW Isn’t Going To Like The 2025 Nissan Ariya’s Price And Equipment

VW Isn’t Going To Like The 2025 Nissan Ariya’s Price And Equipment originally appeared on Autoblog.

The Nissan Ariya presents an impressive value

Electric crossovers aren’t exactly the most affordable vehicles on the market, but the 2025 Nissan Ariya brings a competitive package at all levels. Available from $39,770, the base model wields an athletic stance complemented by an upscale interior. That combination puts it in contention with the likes of the Volkswagen ID.4, which starts at a hefty $45,095. When these two models go tire-to-tire, the Nissan Ariya offers more bang for your buck.

The Nissan Ariya comes stocked with amenities

Normally, base models aren’t exactly the most comfortable vehicles, but Nissan has gone the extra mile with the Ariya. The entry-level Engage trim rides on 19-inch wheels that pair well with LED lighting and a slicked-back style. Heated side mirrors offer a touch of convenience, while the black grille and rear spoiler wing give off an aggressive demeanor.

Inside, the base Ariya Engage makes comfort a priority, with heated front and rear seats, along with a power driver lumbar support. Leatherette-appointed seats provide an upscale look and feel, while a 12.3-inch touchscreen display takes center stage. In terms of connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, wireless charging, and over-the-air (OTA) updates make for a hassle-free experience.

At the top of the range, the Platinum+ trim with 20-inch wheels and all-wheel drive starts at $54,370. For that kind of cash, the EV comes with a power liftgate, first- and second-row moonroof, complete with a power sunshade, and LED fog lights. Inside, comfort soars to new heights, with standard climate-controlled seats and a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel. The top-spec trim brings high-end infotainment in the form of a 10-speaker Bose premium audio system.

At the base level, the 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 rides on 19-inch wheels with LED lighting and black roof rails. Illuminated door handles and heated side mirrors take the electric crossover’s convenience to the next level. Inside, the EV comes equipped with heated front seats with leatherette bolsters and a leatherette-wrapped steering wheel. In terms of tech, the VW ID.4 features a 12.9-inch touchscreen display with backlit sliders, wireless charging, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Adjustable ambient lighting adds a more personal touch to the electrified crossover.

In its highest form, the Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S Plus AWD starts at $57,295 and rides on athletic 21-inch alloy wheels. The top-spec trim includes a panoramic fixed glass roof, puddle lights on the side mirrors, and a heated windshield. A power rear liftgate proves to be a convenient amenity, while silver roof accents and roof rails create a stylish look. Inside, the top-spec ID.4 adds full climate-controlled, massage front seats and heated rear seats. V-Tex leatherette upholstery comes standard, and three-zone automatic climate control creates a more comfortable atmosphere. In terms of entertainment, a Harman Kardon premium audio system offers a pristine listening experience.

Both EVs pack a punch

At the base level, the 2025 Nissan Ariya is the typical entry-level EV, with its single motor putting out 214 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. With the smaller 63 kWh battery, the front-wheel drive Ariya offers 216 miles on a single charge. Models equipped with the smaller battery pack can charge to 80% in 35 minutes at a DC fast charger. For those with a need for speed, however, upgrading to all-wheel drive significantly improves performance and range.

When equipped with dual electric motors and the larger battery pack, the Ariya packs a punch, putting out 389 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque in most iterations. The Ariya Engage AWD starts at $45,370 and serves as the exception, with 335 horsepower due to the smaller battery, which offers 205 miles of range. With the larger 87 kWh battery, the electric crossover’s range peaks at 272 miles and charges to 80% in around 40 minutes at a DC fast charger.

The more expensive of the two EVs, the 2025 Volkswagen ID.4, features a more simplified setup. Currently, the 82 kWh battery pack is the sole option, with a smaller 62 kWh battery expected later this year. When equipped with a single electric motor powering the rear wheels, the VW ID.4 stands out with 282 horsepower and 402 lb-ft of torque. Upgrading to dual electric motors increases the EV’s price to $48,995, but it brings a more thrilling 335 horsepower and 536 lb-ft of torque while reducing range to 263 miles. Regardless of drivetrain, the VW ID.4 can charge from 10% to 80% in around 28 minutes at a DC fast charging station.

Final thoughts

The 2025 Nissan Ariya taps into the competition with a full array of features comparable to more upscale competitors. With a slick style, LED lighting, and an interior designed around passenger comfort, it’s a tough EV to beat, especially with a sub-$40,000 price tag. Even so, there’s no doubt the Volkswagen ID.4 is a solid pick in the electric crossover segment, with its large battery and impressive performance. When it comes to value, however, the ID.4 is out of reach for many consumers due to its $45,095 base price. With tax incentives on the chopping block and vehicle prices rising, the Nissan Ariya’s value simply can’t be understated.

VW Isn’t Going To Like The 2025 Nissan Ariya’s Price And Equipment first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 3, 2025

This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 3, 2025, where it first appeared.