I've been cruising around with a friend's Leaf, and if you're expecting a magical extended range, prepare to be mildly disappointed—especially in winter. The Leaf's range is pretty city-centric, so long road trips require some planning (and maybe a couple of coffee breaks at charging hubs). The Ariya feels more like an upgraded wagon from the future, but it comes at a higher price. Maintenance? Forget oil changes but keep an eye on tire wear and battery cooling (it won’t plug in its own charger, sadly). Overall, if you like a reliable, economical ride and don't mind a bit of route strategizing, Nissan's offerings hold their ground against the big dogs.