Nissan’s Ariya, the all-electric SUV, is making waves in the EV market with lease offers as low as $199 per month, following recent price cuts. The Japanese automaker, known for its early foray into mass-market electric vehicles with the LEAF in 2010, has positioned the Ariya as a compelling option in the growing electric SUV segment.
Data from the third quarter of this year reveals that the Ariya is outselling its compact predecessor, the LEAF, with over 4,500 units sold compared to around 1,500 LEAFs. To further drive sales, Nissan has introduced competitive lease rates, with the Ariya listed at $199 per month for 18 months in New York, requiring a $4,379 upfront payment. The exact terms vary by region, offering potential lessees savings exceeding $10,000, including lease cash incentives and a bonus incentive.
The move aligns with Nissan’s strategy to enhance affordability, as reflected on its website where the 2023 Ariya Engage FWD is featured with a $369 per month lease for 36 months, requiring $4,079 at signing. This lease, applicable until January 2, 2024, includes a $1,000 loyalty cash offer for current Nissan and Infiniti owners.
The Ariya Engage FWD model boasts a 216-mile range powered by a 62 kWh battery, and the lease deal is based on an MSRP of $45,080, excluding the need for a trade-in. Monthly payments amount to $13,284 for 10,000 miles a year, with a purchase price of $25,696 at the lease conclusion.
Nissan’s adjustment in the Ariya’s lease pricing, down from $339 a month just a month ago, is speculated to be linked to the company’s handling of EV tax credits. By passing the credit through a leasing loophole, Nissan aims to offer more competitive pricing in a market that includes the 2024 Nissan LEAF S, priced nearly $16,000 less than the Ariya, with only a marginal increase in monthly lease costs.
In comparison, Tesla’s Model Y, starting at $43,990, is available for lease at $554 per month, with advertised monthly prices as low as $399, incorporating the $7,500 tax credit.