Refreshed Nissan Ariya and Ariya Nismo: Release Dates, Tech Upgrades and What’s New

By bike_ev_admin December 26, 2025 3 min read

Nissan has officially confirmed when the refreshed Nissan Ariya and the performance-focused Nissan Ariya Nismo will go on sale in Japan. First revealed in October, the update is a light facelift on the outside, but a meaningful upgrade in technology and everyday usability.

Japan Launch Dates

Updated Nissan Ariya: February 20
Nissan Ariya Nismo: March 19

Exterior Updates: Subtle but Purposeful

The refreshed Ariya keeps its distinctive design while introducing several visual tweaks:

A redesigned front fascia with a body-colored grille
New 20-inch wheels combining aluminum and resin for reduced weight
Three two-tone and five monotone exterior color options

These changes modernize the look without altering the model’s recognizable EV identity.

Interior: Familiar Layout, New Color Theme

While the cabin layout remains unchanged, Nissan introduces a new White/Green interior color scheme, reinforcing the Ariya’s clean, eco-focused design language.

Android Automotive With Built-In Google Services

One of the most important upgrades is the new infotainment system based on Android Automotive:

Native Google Maps integration
Access to apps via the Google Play Store
No smartphone connection required for core functions

This brings the Ariya in line with the most advanced software ecosystems in the EV market.

Smarter Battery Management and Vehicle-to-Load

Nissan has also enhanced the car’s energy features:

Navigation-linked battery conditioning, which automatically adjusts battery temperature based on the selected route
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability delivering up to 1,500W, allowing the Ariya to power external devices, tools, or camping equipment

Japan-Specific Ride and Driver Assistance Tuning

For the Japanese market, Nissan adjusted the driving characteristics:

Softer suspension tuning for improved comfort in urban driving
An enhanced adaptive cruise system that can:
- Follow the vehicle ahead through repeated acceleration and braking
- Maintain a consistent and safe following distance

What’s New in the Nissan Ariya Nismo

The Ariya Nismo receives the same technology upgrades as the standard model:

Android Automotive infotainment
Vehicle-to-Load functionality
Intelligent distance control and adaptive driving assistance

This ensures that the sportier Nismo variant delivers performance without sacrificing modern EV convenience.

Why This Update Matters

Rather than focusing on dramatic styling changes, Nissan is prioritizing:

Software and digital ecosystem upgrades
Improved real-world EV usability
Smarter energy and comfort management

These improvements strengthen the Ariya’s position against key electric SUV rivals and highlight Nissan’s strategy for its next generation of electric vehicles.

Quick Summary

📅 Ariya launches February 20, Ariya Nismo on March 19 (Japan)
🎨 Updated exterior details and new interior color
🧠 Android Automotive with Google built in
🔋 Route-aware battery conditioning
🔌 V2L power output up to 1,500W
🇯🇵 Market-specific comfort tuning