Nissan Ariya electric SUV still no closer to Australia, could arrive next year

Nissan Australia’s vital all-electric SUV is no closer to Australia, with the Tesla Model Y rival ruled out for a 2023 launch.

The Nissan Ariya midsize electric SUV was confirmed for our market back in 2021, but last year, the brand said its launch is held up by demand and Australia’s relaxed fuel efficiency regulations.

This remains the case 12 months later, with no arrival timing announced, though Wheels was invited behind the wheel of an Ariya in Brisbane this month, alongside the soon-to-arrive Patrol Warrior.

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“Not this year,” confirmed Nissan’s senior vice president for the AMIEO (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania) region, Guillaume Cartier.

“The [Ariya] is doing quite well in other [AMIEO] markets,” said Nissan Australia managing director, Adam Paterson.

“It really is the next step as far as our electrification is concerned in Australia. While we can't confirm the time… we know the vehicle will be successful here when it does arrive and we’re still working on exactly what that timing is.”

When asked if the strong demand for the likes of the Tesla Model Y in Australia meant Nissan should focus less on waiting for government regulation, Cartier said the Ariya would likely appeal to “rational” car buyers.

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"... what are the incentives and what is the ecosystem that will be in each and every country?”

“You have what we call the early adopter, where the first criteria is to go with the new technology. They are okay to pay a bit more. But today, when you want to buy new or you want to buy an E-Power, it’s more expensive,” he said.

“And then you have the second category… that’s the rational people who look at the total cost of ownership of the car. If the two lines are crossing, you’re fine because you bring back the irrational people with you.

“That will be linked to two things. On my side, I’m able to say to build the car, which will be cost competitive. On the other side, what are the incentives and what is the ecosystem that will be in each and every country?”

Watch for our Quick Drive review of the Ariya to come next week, or read our prototype review below.