2025 Nissan EV Showdown: Leaf vs Ariya – Which One’s Right for You?
2025 Nissan EV Showdown: Leaf vs Ariya – Which One’s Right for You?
Posted on July 2, 2025
Electric cars continue to grow in popularity across Canada, and Nissan offers two standout options in 2025: the Nissan Leaf and the Nissan Ariya. Both models are fully electric, packed with smart features, and built for drivers who want to leave gas behind—but each one is designed with different lifestyles in mind.
If you’re choosing between them, this comparison will help you understand which EV suits your needs, whether you're looking for an affordable city commuter or a premium all-electric SUV with added versatility.
Performance and Range: Urban vs All-Season Confidence
The Leaf continues to be a smart choice for city driving and everyday use. It’s powered by a fully electric motor with a standard range of up to 240 km, and the Leaf Plus version extends that to about 341 km. Its compact size, smooth ride, and nimble handling make it ideal for navigating Calgary streets or short highway trips.
The Ariya offers more variety in both drivetrain and battery size. With available front-wheel or all-wheel drive and a range of 348 km to 465 km, the Ariya is built for longer drives and mixed road conditions. Its dual-motor e-4ORCE models offer quicker acceleration and enhanced stability—especially helpful during Alberta’s snowy months.
Interior and Comfort: Spacious Cabin vs Premium SUV Feel
Inside the Leaf, drivers enjoy a clean, user-friendly layout with high-quality materials and seating for five passengers. The rear cargo space is generous for a compact hatchback, and the seats are comfortable for daily driving or errands.
The Ariya, being a larger crossover, delivers a more upscale cabin. It offers more legroom, a minimalist design, and features such as a power-sliding centre console and zero-gravity front seats. The Ariya also feels quieter inside, giving it a more luxurious, travel-ready feel.
Technology and Infotainment: Practical vs Futuristic
Both EVs are tech-savvy, but they cater to different users. The Leaf comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and available navigation. It's designed for simplicity, featuring easy-to-use functions that are perfect for everyday routines.
The Ariya raises the bar with a 12.3-inch dual-screen setup, voice command functions, and advanced system updates via over-the-air software. It’s a better fit for tech enthusiasts and families looking to stay connected on long drives.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Reliable Coverage All-Around
The Leaf includes essential safety tech such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane leaving Warning, and Blind Spot Monitoring. It also features ProPILOT Assist in upper trims, helping with highway driving and stop-and-go traffic.
The Ariya enhances these features with standard ProPILOT Assist 2.0 in select models, which adds hands-free driving capability on certain highways. For long road trips or all-season driving, this added convenience makes a difference.
Wheels, Styling, and First Impressions
From the outside, the Leaf presents a clean, modern look with a slightly sporty profile. Its smaller wheels, compact hatchback shape, and familiar Nissan face make it recognizable and approachable.
The Ariya takes on a bold, futuristic design. With a more sculpted front, sleek LED lighting, and aerodynamic lines, it turns more heads and stands out in traffic. It rides on larger wheels and sits higher off the ground, offering that elevated SUV stance.
Vehicle Comparison Chart
| Features | 2025 Nissan Leaf | 2025 Nissan Ariya |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 214 hp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Battery | 40 kWh lithium-ion battery | 66 kWh lithium-ion battery |
| Cargo space | 850 litres | 1691 litres |
| Wheels | 17-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels | 19-inch alloy wheels |
| Best for | Daily commutes, urban driving | Long trips, all-season comfort |
| Pricing | $44,593* | $52,919* |
Conclusion: Leaf or Ariya?
Choosing between the Leaf and Ariya comes down to your driving lifestyle. The Leaf is perfect for city drivers, eco-conscious commuters, or anyone looking for a lower entry price and a proven EV experience. The Ariya, with its greater range, upscale interior, and available AWD, fits best for families or drivers wanting a tech-rich SUV for longer, year-round trips.
Price won’t be a major deciding factor for many, as both offer strong value—what matters is how you plan to use your EV.
Do you want to make the switch? Visit Royal Oak Nissan in Calgary to explore the 2025 Nissan Leaf and Ariya with the best pricing and flexible financing available!
*All pricing is based on Ontario MSRP and does not include taxes and fees. Dealer pricing may differ. Prices are subject to change at any time without notice.