Nissan is moving forward with the 2026 Ariya in Canada—even as the electric SUV is being pulled from the U.S. market—rolling out a round of meaningful price cuts as the new model year arrives. The Canadian-spec Ariya goes on sale today with a starting price of $55,830, accompanied by reduced pricing across all SL grades and higher trims.
The contrast between markets reflects how differently tariffs and margins are shaping Nissan’s EV strategy. South of the border, the Japanese-built Ariya faced a 15% import tariff and shrinking incentives, making the crossover nearly impossible to sustain at scale. American dealers were informed in September that the Ariya would be canceled for 2026, with remaining inventory marking the end of its U.S. run.
Nissan told dealers the decision would help “reallocate resources and optimize its EV portfolio,” with no guarantee the model will return for 2027.
But in Canada, the Ariya remains a key part of Nissan’s EV lineup. For 2026, SL e-4ORCE, the entry point into the dual-motor all-wheel-drive lineup, sees a $3,000 reduction, while SL FWD and all higher trims receive a $4,600 cut compared to last year.
The simplified five-grade lineup continues to offer two battery sizes and a choice of front-wheel drive or Nissan’s advanced e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system.
2026 Nissan Ariya Pricing in Canada
| Grade | Battery | MSRP | Selling Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| SV FWD (formerly Engage FWD) | 63 kWh | $52,898 | $55,830 |
| SL e-4ORCE (formerly Evolve e-4ORCE) | 63 kWh | $53,998 | $56,930 |
| SL FWD (formerly Evolve FWD) | 87 kWh | $55,398 | $58,330 |
| SL+ e-4ORCE (formerly Evolve+ e-4ORCE) | 87 kWh | $57,398 | $60,330 |
| Platinum+ e-4ORCE | 87 kWh | $60,398 | $63,330 |
Nissan’s strategy shift in the U.S. highlights the broader challenges facing legacy automakers in the EV transition. The Ariya has dealt with tight margins since launch, compounded by tariffs, rising battery material costs, and softening demand. Nissan attempted to bolster sales with steep lease incentives—some as low as US$99 per month—but the economics never fully aligned.
Meanwhile, Nissan is betting heavily on the redesigned 2026 Leaf, positioned as the most affordable EV in the U.S. market. That model debuts with thermal battery management, modern tech, and aggressive pricing aimed at restoring Nissan’s early leadership in mass-market EVs.
In Canada, however, the Ariya’s continuation—paired with these new price cuts—positions it as a more attractive option in the competitive electric crossover segment. The updated pricing and simplified grade structure should strengthen Nissan’s foothold against competition from Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, and Volkswagen.
