Nissan’s electric crossover gains a cleaner face, new Google-powered infotainment, and revised suspension tuning for Japanese roads
Like they say, life goes on. While the Nissan Ariya may be on its way out of the U.S. lineup after the 2025 model year, a refreshed version has just broken cover in Japan. The facelifted electric crossover will be unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, where it will share the spotlight with the next-generation Elgrand minivan and several other new arrivals.
Originally introduced in 2020, the Ariya didn’t enter production until 2022. Three years on, Nissan has decided it’s time for a thorough update to keep the electric SUV looking fresh against an ever-growing list of rivals.
New Looks and Tech
The most noticeable change is the redesigned front end, which adopts a cleaner, grille-free appearance paired with Leaf-inspired LED headlights. The bumper has been reworked for a simpler look that drops the previous side intakes, while the lower intake gains a more restrained shape. The fog lights have quietly disappeared as well, streamlining the overall design.
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The profile is carried over, but the five spoke alloy wheels have gained a new texture, combined with a fresh color option for the exterior. Nissan didn’t share photos of the rear end, where we expect more subtle updates.
Besides the new looks, the Ariya will gain a Google-powered infotainment, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, and a revised suspension setup “tailored for Japanese roads”. There is no word on any changes to the electric powertrain options and battery packs.
Underneath, a revised suspension setup tuned specifically for Japanese roads aims to deliver a more composed and comfortable drive. So far, Nissan hasn’t mentioned any updates to the electric powertrain or battery options.
The refreshed Ariya will reach Japanese showrooms later in the fiscal year. Whether it returns to the U.S. market for the 2027 model year remains uncertain.
The Next-Gen Elgrand Steps Forward
Another major highlight of Nissan’s Tokyo showcase will be the all-new, fourth-generation Elgrand. Previewed through earlier teasers, the new model takes inspiration from the futuristic-looking 2023 Hyper Tourer concept.
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At the front, it features a sculpted nose with pixel-like LEDs and body-colored elements blending with its covered grille. We can also see it has sliding doors, more curves on its boxy silhouette, and full-width taillights.
Under the skin, the Elgrand will use Nissan’s third-generation e-Power hybrid setup. This combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that acts purely as a generator with electric motors driving the wheels, resulting in smooth, quiet performance and improved efficiency.
The new hybrid configuration positions the Elgrand to compete more directly with the Toyota Alphard. Nissan also promises an upgraded interior with enhanced comfort, finer materials, and more advanced driver-assistance technology.
The market launch of the all-new Elgrand is expected in 2026. The previous generations debuted in 1997, 2002, and 2010 respectively.
Expanding Mobility Concepts
In addition to its production vehicles, Nissan will present an autonomous mobility service prototype based on the Serena minivan. The pilot program begins in November near Nissan’s Yokohama headquarters, aiming to test transport solutions for Japan’s aging population.
The brand’s booth will also feature a full roster of vehicles, including the newly launched Leaf, the next-generation Roox kei car, the recently facelifted X-Trail Rock Creek, the Fairlady Z, and the upcoming 2026 Skyline 400R Limited Edition.
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Furthermore, visitors will be able to check out the Micra EV subcompact hatchback from Europe, the N7 electric sedan from China, and the Patrol flagship SUV from the Middle East. Finally, Nissan will showcase the GEN3 Formula E car from Season 11 that helped win the driver’s championship title.
The Japan Mobility Show 2025 will be held at the Tokyo Big Sight between October 31 and November 9. However, Nissan’s press conference will be livestreamed on the first media day that takes place on October 29.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio

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