History/Overview
Kia introduced the Niro in 2017 to cater to car buyers interested in a compact wagon with gas-electric hybrid power. Niro Hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions are covered in their own buyer's guide entries; the one you're reading about here is a fully electric version that Kia added in 2019.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
For 2020, Kia has refreshed the Niro EV's styling, including new wheel designs, and there's a new standard 8.0-inch infotainment screen that options to a 10.25-inch display in cars with navigation.
There are also a few new safety and driver assist features.
Available Trims
Kia offers the Niro EV in EX and SX Touring trims. Common to both is battery pack promising 385 km of driving range through a single-speed transmission and front-wheel drive.
Standard Features
Standard on EX models are 17-inch alloy wheels, auto on/off headlights with automatic high beams, LED daytime running lights, fog lights, side mirrors with turn signal repeaters, a rear spoiler, and roof rails.
In the cabin, Niro EX comes with combination cloth/faux leather seats, manual front seat adjustments, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, a rear centre armrest, automatic climate control, an 8.0-inch infotainment display, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, cruise control, an electric parking brake, passive keyless entry, and a 7.0-inch gauge cluster display.
Niro EX's Advanced safety features are limited to tire pressure monitoring.
Safety-wise, SX Touring adds blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane keep and lane follow assists, driver attention alert, forward collision warning with automatic braking, front and rear parking sensors.
Outside, SX Touring brings LED headlights and taillights, a sunroof, and chrome door handles and door trim.
Inside SX Touring there are heated rear and heated/ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, an eight-way power driver's seat, a heated/leather-trimmed steering wheel, luggage net and privacy cover, an enhanced range-extending climate control system, navigation in a 10.25-inch touchscreen, an upgraded sound system, wireless smartphone charging, a 110-volt power outlet, and adaptive cruise control.
Fuel Economy
Kia's energy consumption estimates for the Niro EV are 1.9/2.3 Le/100 km (city/highway).
Competition
Some of the Niro EV's competitors come from Kia and the brand's Hyundai parent, including the Soul EV, and the Hyundai Ioniq Electric. The Chevrolet Bolt is another high-profile EV, along with the Volkswagen e-Golf.
