Renault Megane E-Tech vs Nissan ARIYA
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Renault Megane E-Tech starts from $54,990 before on-road costs, while the Nissan ARIYA opens at $55,840. That makes the Renault Megane E-Tech the more affordable entry point by $850.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $60,489 and $61,424 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the Renault Megane E-Tech and Nissan ARIYA hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 85% for the Renault Megane E-Tech and 86% for the Nissan ARIYA.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 7 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Renault Megane E-Tech and 7 in the Nissan ARIYA.
Feature Showdown
The Renault Megane E-Tech features a 9-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Nissan ARIYA gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Renault Megane E-Tech stands out with BOSE audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Nissan ARIYA. The Nissan ARIYA counters with heated front seats and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Renault Megane E-Tech gets synthetic leather upholstery while the Nissan ARIYA offers nappa leather.
Drivetrain
The Renault Megane E-Tech uses a Electric producing 160kW and 300Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.4 seconds.
The Nissan ARIYA responds with a Electric making 160kW and 300Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds.
Power output is identical on paper, so the difference comes down to tuning, weight distribution, and suspension. In the real-world sprint, the Renault Megane E-Tech is 0.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 60kWh (Renault Megane E-Tech) vs 63kWh (Nissan ARIYA), giving WLTP ranges of 440km and 385km. DC fast charging peaks at 130kW (Renault Megane E-Tech) vs 130kW (Nissan ARIYA).
Space & Comfort
The Renault Megane E-Tech measures 4,200mm long on a 2,685mm wheelbase, 395mm shorter than the Nissan ARIYA at 4,595mm (2,775mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Nissan ARIYA generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 440L in the Renault Megane E-Tech and 466L in the Nissan ARIYA, giving the Nissan ARIYA a 26L advantage.
For towing, the Nissan ARIYA leads with a 1,500kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 11.0m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Renault Megane E-Tech) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Nissan ARIYA). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Renault Megane E-Tech if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Renault's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Nissan ARIYA if: You need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Nissan's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Renault Megane E-Tech and Nissan ARIYA trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Renault Megane E-Tech and Nissan ARIYA?
The Renault Megane E-Tech is the cheapest at $54,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Nissan ARIYA by $850.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Nissan ARIYA has the most range at 403km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Renault Megane E-Tech accepts the highest DC charging at up to 130kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Renault Megane E-Tech and Nissan ARIYA all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Nissan ARIYA has the largest boot at 466L.
Which can tow the most?
The Nissan ARIYA has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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