The Ultimate Electric Adventure: 2026 Nissan Ariya Advance+ Road Trip Review

Electric Vehicles (EVs) have been a hot topic in recent years, with many touting them as the future of transportation. One statement that gained popularity was “EVs will end the weekend,” famously attributed to a previous government. Despite the political-leaning humor, range anxiety has been a significant hurdle to EV adoption in Australia. However, recent events, such as the ‘fuel crisis,’ have sparked increased interest in electrified vehicles, including plug-in hybrids and hybrids.

Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to test the capabilities of our 2026 Nissan Ariya Advance+ during the Easter long weekend. I embarked on a road trip to the border of Victoria and New South Wales to see if the common Australian tradition of road trip holidays can be accomplished in an EV. Yarrawonga, a town on the Victorian side of the border, was my destination, approximately three hours north of Melbourne.

The journey posed a challenge for the Ariya, as it involved traveling uphill and cruising at 110km/h on the Hume Highway, conditions that are not ideal for an EV. Despite this, I set off with a fully charged Ariya, indicating 599km of range, and packed with luggage for the trip. The Ariya’s 466L luggage space easily accommodated our belongings.

The Advance+ model, equipped with an 87kWh battery and a single-motor drivetrain, proved to be lighter and more efficient compared to its dual-motor counterpart. The journey revealed some nuances of the Ariya’s performance, including its ride quality and energy consumption.

The ProPilot assistance feature, combining adaptive cruise control and lane centring functions, provided a comfortable driving experience, especially on the highway. The immediate torque response of the Ariya’s motor made acceleration feel more spirited than its specifications suggest.

Charging the Ariya during the trip was a straightforward process, although some limitations with the DC charger were noted. The overall range and efficiency of the Ariya were commendable, showcasing its capability for long-distance travel.

The interior of the Ariya offered a mix of positives and negatives, with good cabin insulation and comfortable seating, but limited storage options and dated software interface. Despite these drawbacks, the Ariya’s familiar feel and competitive pricing make it an attractive option in the EV market.

In conclusion, the Nissan Ariya presents a viable option for those considering an EV, with its long driving range, comfortable interior, and competitive pricing. While there are some areas for improvement, such as ride quality and storage solutions, the Ariya stands out as a practical and efficient electric vehicle.

Overall, the Ariya’s performance on the road trip highlighted its potential for long-distance travel, dispelling concerns about range anxiety. With its familiar design and affordable pricing, the Ariya is a compelling choice in the evolving EV market.