New electric crossover updated… already

It may have only just arrived in Australia, but Nissan’s compact pure-electric Ariya crossover was unveiled globally way back in 2020 and ramped into full production in early 2021.

So, it’s not a huge surprise that a facelift is waiting in the wings with Nissan confirming a near-production ready concept version of the updated EV will be on display at this month’s Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo.

Clearly taking external design cues from its third-generation Leaf hatch sibling, the new car’s headlight treatment has been tweaked with jagged DRL strips descending into the nose.

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Vertical vents ahead of the front wheel arches have been deleted and the grille has been replaced by a body-coloured section.

No details on interior changes and the rear view remains a mystery with Nissan only releasing three images of the car so far.

Having said that, the car’s profile, hard points and overall dimensions appear to be unchanged although the fresh five-spoke wheel design helps lift the concept's more contemporary appearance.

The only hints on specification updates are the addition of Google-powered multimedia and V2L (Vehicle to Load) functionality.

2026 Nissan Ariya Concept

2026 Nissan Ariya Concept

2026 Nissan Ariya Concept

The Ariya was the subject of a lengthy arm wrestle between Federal Government authorities and Nissan over the car’s Australian Design Rule compliance, including provision of top tether points for anchoring baby capsules and child seats. Presumably the updated version will make a smoother and more punctual arrival here this time around.

Stay tuned for CarsGuide’s on-the-ground reports from the Japan Mobility Show (30/10 to 09/11, 2025).