As electric vehicles gain momentum, two models stand out from the pack – Nissan‘s Ariya crossover SUV and Tesla‘s popular Model 3 sedan.
You‘re likely debating which of these cutting-edge EVs best fits your needs and budget. Well, you‘ve come to the right place!
In this comprehensive 2500+ word guide, we‘ll dive deep on Ariya and Model 3 specs, real-world performance, interior space, tech capabilities, and total ownership costs. By the end, you‘ll have all the details to decide which EV is the best match your priorities.
Ready to take the deep dive? Let‘s get rolling!
Overview: How Ariya and Model 3 Compare at a Glance
First, let‘s quickly summarize how these electric vehicles stack up:
Nissan Ariya
- 301-mile maximum range
- 238 to 389 horsepower depending on trim
- 12.3” central touchscreen display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Available advanced driver assistance tech
- SUV form factor provides more passenger and cargo space
Tesla Model 3
- 358-mile top range
- Up to 450 horsepower in Performance trim
- 15” centralized touchscreen controller
- Cutting-edge games, entertainment and apps
- Superior advanced Autopilot driver assistance
- Sportier sedan handling and acceleration
So in a nutshell – the Nissan Ariya SUV favors interior room, comfort and safety tech, while the Tesla Model 3 sedan focuses more on performance, entertainment features and slick styling.
But let‘s analyze key metrics and capabilities in more detail to reveal more meaningful differences…
Styling and design differences: An EV SUV vs sporty sedan
The first distinction that jumps out is body style – the Ariya as a taller SUV crossover versus Model 3‘s sporty 4-door sedan shape. Their structures heavily influence aesthetics, handling and interior space.
Exterior Styling and Dimensions
- Ariya takes a sleek, futuristic approach optimized for aerodynamics and utility. Many praise its flowing lines and short front and rear overhangs.
- Model 3 leans into sporting minimalism – flowing lines stretch over its lower, wider framing for that performance-focused flavor.
For reference, here are exterior dimensions:
| Spec | Ariya | Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 184.3 in | 184.8 in |
| Width | 74.8 in | 72.8 in |
| Height | 63.2 in | 56.8 in |
| Ground Clearance | 7.9 in | 5.5 in |
Inside Looks and Layout
- The Ariya interior feels airy and spacious, using an open two-tier layout and premium materials for a lounge-like environment.
- Model 3 remains minimalist and technical inside, using a horizontal dash layout centered around its huge 15-inch screen. The focus stays on the tech.
So the Ariya design leans into comfort and quality, while Model 3 doubles down on tech-forward aesthetics inside and out.
Performance: Thrilling acceleration or comfy cruising?
Performance metrics also showcase the different personalities. Let‘s look at acceleration, handling, range and charging speed data:
Acceleration and Handling
- Ariya‘s quickest e-4ORCE all-wheel drive versions boast 389 horsepower allowing 0-60 mph acceleration around 5.7 seconds – quick but geared more towards stability.
- Model 3‘s new 650-horsepower tri-motor Plaid version smashes 0-60 mph runs in under 2 seconds! But even base Model 3 remains sporty hitting 60 mph in under 5.8 seconds.
For your reference:
|| Nissan Ariya | Tesla Model 3 |
|-|—————-|—————|
|Horsepower Range | 238 to 389 hp | Up to 1,020 hp|
|0 to 60 mph Time | 5.7 to 7.6 sec | 1.99 to 5.8 sec |
|Peak Handling | Solid stability aided by e-4ORCE AWD tech | Lower, performance focus |
So while both deliver brisk acceleration, the Model 3 has greater straight-line speed potential plus livelier handling.
Range and Charging Comparison
Both models offer excellent range to ease range anxiety. The Long Range Model 3 edges out the Ariya‘s max range slightly. But Ariya still delivers ample distance for most drivers’ daily needs.
Let‘s compare range and charging metrics:
| Spec | Nissan Ariya | Tesla Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Range | 300 miles | 358 miles |
| Battery Size | 71-87 kWh | 60-82 kWh |
| Charge Time 0-80% | ~35 minutes | ~25 minutes |
The Tesla also charges faster at Supercharger stations – capable of adding nearly 200 miles of charge in just 15 minutes! But Ariya‘s 35-minute charge time still enables long trips with proper planning.
So while the Model 3 wins on raw performance and range numbers, Ariya still posts very solid speed and distance capabilities for the majority of drivers.
Technology and smart features face-off
In our tech-obsessed times, in-vehicle technology looms large in purchase decisions. How do Ariya and Model 3 gadgetry and entertainment options compare? Let’s break it down…
Driver Assistance and Safety Features
We expect our vehicles to actively help avoid accidents these days using detection sensors and automated systems. Ariya and Model 3 deliver – but with differing approaches:
- Nissan Ariya – Offers "hands-on" ProPILOT Assist featuring adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, automatic emergency braking and more. It helps drive but requires paying attention.
- Tesla Model 3 – Pushes towards "hands-off" autonomy with its robust Autopilot mode handling steering, acceleration/braking, lane changes and navigation on highways with supervision.
Many reviewers praise Tesla‘s more advanced Autopilot capabilities. But Ariya‘s system still modernizes driving while ensuring drivers stay attentive.
Entertainment and Convenience Features
Both vehicles aim to keep us happily occupied with copious entertainment options and conveniences:
- Nissan Ariya – Its 12.3-inch touchscreen and integrated Google services enable cloud-connected navigation, voice commands, music streaming and more.
- Tesla Model 3 – Its sprawling 15-inch touchscreen doesn’t just handle climate and maps – it enables access to streaming media, games, web browsing and specialized Tesla apps.
If you want the most technologically immersive driving environment, the Model 3 may better satisfy your appetite. But Ariya still provides plenty of digital amenities to entertain.
Smartphone Integration
Syncing our mobile devices with vehicles can really amplify features and functionality. Both EVs enable impressive integration, but Tesla‘s tight ecosystem has the edge:
- Nissan Ariya – Offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for bringing mobile apps to its central screen. Great for accessing maps, music and messages.
- Tesla Model 3 – Takes integration much further. You can use your phone as a key, remote access climate controls, view vehicle data, monitor charging status and more with its app.
If you covet deep mobile/EV integration enabling increased control and access, the Model 3 is tough to beat here.
No matter your preferences for advanced technology – from assisted driving, to immersive entertainment, to phone connectivity – Ariya and Model 3 both deliver satisfyingly modern options. Tesla simply pushes the boundaries further in some areas.
Passenger and cargo hauling abilities
Let‘s shift gears from high-tech features to simple interior space and practicality considerations.
The Nissan Ariya‘s taller SUV silhouette pays dividends in both passenger and cargo carrying flexibility:
- Roomy, supportive front seats
- rear seats comfortably fit 3 adults with plenty of legroom
- Up to 28.3 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats
- Folding the rear seats down opens up a cavernous 65.7 cubic feet of space.
The Tesla Model 3 interior remains adequately sized but its lower sedan stance can‘t quite compete on pure usable space:
- 5 adult capacity
- 15 cubic feet trunk space
- Rear seats fold down to open up 47 cubic feet total
So while the Model 3 still delivers satisfactory room for most peoples‘ needs, larger families and groups should favor the Ariya’s more generous dimensions.
Hauling bulky items or luggage for road trips? Again, Ariya‘s extra cargo capacity comes in handy.
Comparing ownership costs
Okay, let‘s shift from vehicular features to financial considerations – what can expected Ariya and Model 3 ownership costs reveal? We’ll break down purchase price, estimated charging expenses, maintenance needs, insurance rates and projected resale values.
Vehicle Price Points
Manufacturers have a lot of variability in trim levels and options, but here is an overview of base prices:
- The Nissan Ariya starts around $45,950 for the Venture+ FWD model before any incentives.
- The Tesla Model 3 now starts at $46,990 for the cheapest Single Motor RWD trim.
When considering qualifications for the $7,500 U.S. federal EV tax credit incentive which Ariya qualifies for, Ariya‘s effective cost advantage widens.
Most buyers don‘t opt for the absolute base models though. Let‘s look at pricing for the top-end versions:
- Ariya range-topping Platinum+ e-4orce trim totals around $60,000 MSRP
- The Model 3 Performance model with insane acceleration reaches about $63,000.
So trim-for-trim Ariya holds a slight pricing edge before incentives. But Teslas often lack typical model year changeovers and discounts that can help price advantage on an equivalent year model.
Estimated Charging Expenses
Both deliver substantial fuel savings over gas – a major incentive for EV adoption! Based on U.S. residential electricity rates, charging costs roughly:
- Nissan Ariya – $900 per year
- Tesla Model 3 – $1,000 per year
Not a large difference. Expect to save thousands over an equivalent gas car even including some public fast charging.
Maintenance Needs
EVs generally require far less routine repairs and fluid changes since they have far fewer moving parts and oils than internal combustion engines. Both Ariya and Model 3 should need minimal scheduled maintenance compared to traditional vehicles.
Tesla does hold an advantage here as they own their service centers. Nissan dealership repair quality can be inconsistent. But overall, low maintenance costs will be a nice bonus over gas cars!
Insurance Premiums
Due to replacement part shortages, some insurer‘s premiums have risen on Teslas recently. Expect comparable or slightly lower premiums for Ariya. Still, both should save over $1000 yearly over most gas rides.
Resale Value Outlook
Modern EVs like Tesla Model 3 hold value exceptionally well right now due to demand outpacing supply. But Teslas in particular command stellar resale prices – ften exceeding average brand retention value by 10-15 percentage points.
Both should hold value better than gas cars. But the Model 3‘s surging popularity gives it the clear edge here to offset other ownership costs over time.
Decision time: Which EV is best aligned with YOUR priorities?
Okay – we‘ve covered a ton of in-depth comparisons between Ariya and Model 3! Where does that leave us? Which is the "best" choice?
The short answer – it depends on your priorities and preferences! Both vehicles achieve excellence in areas that matter to EV buyers. But let‘s summarize key advantages:
If you prioritize passenger and cargo flexibility, consider the Ariya for:
- Its taller SUV shape allowing excellent passenger and cargo space
- Easier loading capacity for bulky items like strollers, gear or pets
If bleeding-edge performance and tech are paramount, the Model 3 takes the cake with:
- Lightning quick acceleration putting sports cars on notice
- Cutting-edge Autopilot, entertainment and smartphone integration
If you want premium comfort and refined styling, lean Ariya for:
- Luxurious, lounge-like interior environment
- Sleek, future-forward exterior lines contrasted to the Model 3‘s function-first aesthetic
If low ownership costs are vital, Ariya wins with:
- Lower purchase prices when factoring available tax credits
- Comparable charging, maintenance and insurance costs
See – both are fabulous electric vehicles that check many boxes. You really can‘t make a bad choice between the two! You‘ll just want to reflect on your budget and lifestyle needs to decide what elements hold the most importance.
For even more guidance, be sure to check out my full reviews after thorough test drives of each EV:
In-Depth 2024 Nissan Ariya Review: Funky Styling, Butacular Range
2023 Tesla Model 3 Review: Still a Tech Masterpiece
So there you have it, my EV friend! You now have all the crossover versus sedan specs, studies, impressions and considerations you need to confidently decide between the remarkable Nissan Ariya or Tesla‘s game-changing Model 3.
Drop any other questions in the comments – and happy test driving!
