Nissan Ariya electric SUV spotted in Malaysia - Launching soon?

The Nissan Ariya electric SUV was recently spotted locally on a transporter, which suggests that local brand custodians Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) might be launching it sometime soon. 

Photos of it on said car on transporter shows it dressed in Akatsuki Copper. The exact specifications of which remains unclear, but the Ariya is offered with two options – a single-motor 2WD setup rated at 160 kW (215 hp), and a dual-motor AWD choice that delivers 178 kw (239 hp).

(Image source: PaulTan.org)

It’s also offered with the options between a 66 kWh or 87 kWh lithium-ion battery packs, both featuring active cooling. Being the lighter of the two, the 2WD model with the 66 kWH battery pack offers the greatest range of up to 610 km. 

Measuring 4,595 mm long, 1,850 mm wide, and 1,655 mm tall with a 2,775 mm wheelbase, the Ariya sits lower and broader than brand’s existing hybrid crossover SUV the X-Trail. Additionally, the Ariya sports a longer wheelbase.

With fully imported (CBU) electric vehicles now exempt from import and excise duties until the end of 2023, we can expect the Ariya to command a price tag that’s not too far off from what it commands in its Japanese home market where it starts from JPY6,600,000 – approx. RM217,963.28.

Should ETCM choose to launch the Ariya locally, we can expect more details prior. Does this Japanese EV crossover SUV tickle your fancy?