Kia Niro EV Review
The Kia Niro EV has become a popular choice, particularly among families and even minicab drivers, and for good reason. This all-electric vehicle combines style and practicality with an impressive seven-year warranty (eight for the battery), making it a compelling option in the growing EV market.
However, the EV landscape is evolving rapidly. Compared to its newer sibling from Hyundai, the Kona, the Niro EV reveals its age in some areas. While design preferences are subjective, the Kona offers a choice of two batteries, a potentially longer range, and a standard heat pump for improved efficiency in cold weather.
But the Niro EV’s appeal remains. It provides ample space for passengers and luggage, excellent visibility, user-friendly technology, and a comfortable driving experience.
Testing Experience
Having lived with a Niro EV for a period, it proved to be an easy car to live with, whether navigating city streets or embarking on longer trips.
Pros and Cons
- Independent rating: 7/10
- Best for: Efficiency and space
- Pros: Comfortable, efficient, spacious interior, excellent warranty.
- Cons: Can be noisy on motorways, relatively expensive, and lacks the fast charging capabilities of some competitors.
Specifications
- Price range: £37,325 to £43,225
- Battery size: 64.8kWh
- Maximum claimed range: 285 miles
- Miles per kWh: 3.8
- Maximum charging rate: 72kW
Battery, Range, Charging, Performance, and Drive
Although there are several trim levels available, all Niro EV models use a single 64.8kWh battery.
In comparison, the Hyundai Kona can achieve over 300 miles from the same battery, whereas the Niro EV has a maximum range of 285 miles. The Niro EV’s charging speeds are also slightly slower and the heat pump is an optional extra.
Behind the wheel, the Niro provides a comfortable experience, with well-weighted steering making it easy to maneuver around town. Performance is ‘brisk’ rather than exceptionally fast by EV standards.
Interior, Practicality, and Boot Space
The Niro EV’s body style strikes a balance between an estate car and an SUV, making entry and exit easy. There’s also ample space for loading children and child seats. Clever storage solutions are well-integrated throughout the cabin, which contributes to its popularity.
The driving position is comfortable. Excellent visibility is enhanced by large mirrors and advanced camera systems. The Niro offers a spacious 475-liter boot, expandable to 1,293 liters with the rear seats folded down.
Technology, Stereo, and Infotainment
The Niro EV’s exterior design is mirrored in its interior, with a seamless integration of two 10.25-inch digital screens. One screen is for the driver display, and the other is for infotainment.
The infotainment system is responsive and provides clear visuals. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included and are great alternatives if you prefer not to use the standard navigation system. Advanced safety is plentiful, and even the base model includes advanced adaptive cruise control. Upgrading to the higher trim levels adds even more safety features, and a head-up display is available on the top-spec model.
Compared to some newer competitors, some of the more advanced luxury tech features might be missing. Also, the audio system is only average.
Prices and Running Costs
The entry price of £37,325 seems a little high, though the range of 285 miles that comes with that price is reasonable. The top-spec model at £43,225 is not the best choice unless the deal is right for you. The contrasting C-pillar paint job might be something you love or hate.
Efficiency is decent, but not exceptional by today’s standards. Kia might not offer the same extent of incentives and finance deals as some competitors.
Rivals
- Hyundai Kona
- Jeep Avenger
- Volkswagen ID.4
FAQs
- How long does it take to charge? It can go from 10-80 per cent charge in approximately 43 minutes. At 80%, you can drive approximately 228 miles.
- How much does it cost – is it worth it? The entry price of £37,325 looks a bit expensive, but the 285-mile range is reasonable for that price.
- Does Kia replace batteries for free? Kia offers an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty on its batteries. Also, the rest of the car is covered for seven years.
Why trust us?
Our team of motoring experts have decades of experience driving, reviewing and reporting on the latest EV cars, and our verdicts are reached with every kind of driver in mind. We thoroughly test drive every car we recommend, so you can be sure our verdicts are honest, unbiased and authentic.
The verdict: Kia Niro EV
Kia’s EV range will soon be more crowded, with the EV3 soon to be launched, potentially putting pressure the Niro EV. However, with the space on board, it will continue to be a family favourite and I think it looks great, too.
