Test drives always reveal if a vehicle truly fits, but on paper the compact 2022 and 2023 Kia Niro EV crossover SUVs check manyfamily-friendly boxes. With nimble handling and a smooth quiet ride, these affordable electric Kias boast just enough space for neighborhood driving or commutes. Rapid acceleration and high-tech features round out the appeal. But how do Niro EVs really compare on battery range, seating room or cargo space? Does the incoming 2023 redesign address any current model shortcomings? This guide will compare specs, pricing details and ownership experiences to competitor EVs to help determine if a Niro works for you.
At a Glance: Key Kia Niro EV Specifications
| Specification | 2022 Kia Niro EV | 2023 Kia Niro EV |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Starting MSRP) | $39,990 | $42,000 (Estimated) |
| Battery Capacity | 64 kWh | 64.8 kWh |
| Electric Range | 239 miles | 253 miles |
| 0-60 mph Time | 6.1 seconds | 6.0 seconds (Estimated) |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 53 cubic feet | 57.5 cubic feet |
| Fast Charging Speed | 50 kW (10-80% in ~60 minutes) | 70 kW (10-80% in 45 minutes) |
Note: Pricing doesn‘t include current $7,500 federal tax credit or local incentives
The Niro EV combines sports car-like acceleration with adequate daily driving range and crossover practicality. Prices remain competitive despite rising costs for EVs industry-wide. But rear seat and cargo room trail some small SUV rivals. Upgrades for 2023 seek to close gaps versus competitors on space, range and charging speed.
Zippy Performance Meets All-Electric Efficiency
A 201 horsepower electric motor zips the Niro EV to 60 mph in just over 6 seconds – quicker than some luxury cars! Such instant acceleration simply reflects the incredible torque electric drivetrains supply. Handling and braking likewise feel nimble thanks to a low center of gravity battery placement.
Regenerative brakes restore battery range each time Niro EVs slow using the steering wheel paddles. Drivers choose from four regenerative intensity settings to blend normal and one-pedal driving styles to their preference. At 65 kW, even current Niro EVs fast charge significantly quicker than early EVs did too.
How Far Can You Really Drive?
| Driving Conditions | Approximate Max Range |
|---|---|
| Smooth Highway | 210 miles |
| Mixed City/Highway | 190 miles |
| Cold Weather | 125 miles |
The 2023 edition‘s updated heat pump climate control will minimize cold weather losses. Choosing lower performance drive modes can also help add miles in any conditions. While not equaling 400+ mile leaders, over 200 miles range suits most urban owner needs.
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The Kia Niro EV offers brisk, quiet performance blending crossover versatility with all-electric efficiency for daily commuting needs or urban errands. Handling and braking feel responsive thanks to balanced weight distribution and low center of gravity. Regenerative braking customization allows drivers to blend one-pedal control with normal coasting.
Packaging & Practicality: Easy to Park, Less Cargo Space
At just 172 inches long, the subcompact Niro EV parks and maneuvers with ease. Its ride height aids entering/exiting versus lower sedans too. But cargo and rear seat dimensions trail some similar sized SUVs.
Key Interior Dimensions
| Measurement | 2022 Niro EV | 2023 Niro EV | Volkswagen ID.4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear Legroom | 36 inches | 37 inches | 37.6 inches |
| Rear Headroom | 37.6 inches | 38 inches | 38.4 inches |
| Cargo Capacity | 19.4 cubic feet | 22.8 cubic feet | 30.3 cubic feet |
While larger inside than appearances suggest, the Niro EV best suits singles, couples or very small families. Child seats fit reasonably, but gangly teens may find rear accommodations cramped. And luggage for four on vacation trips fills cargo space.
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The Kia Niro EV balances nimble urban dimensions with ride height for easy entry/exit. But rear seat legroom and cargo room trail roomier small electric SUV alternatives. Best fits singles, couples or very small families needing an efficient, affordable commuter.
Safety & Technology Suit Urban Life
With standard forward collision warning and lane centering support, every Niro EV looks out for distracted moments. EX models add extras like parking sensors, blind spot cameras and safe exit assist to further reduce downtown scrapes. Large door openings aid installing child seats safely too compared to lower sedans.
Inside, two large interactive screens canted subtly towards the driver handle navigation, music and vehicle controls. Wireless device charging, multiple USB ports and available premium audio keep occupants entertained. And an available head-up display keeps key data easily in sight. New tech additions are coming for 2023 as well.
What About Charging?
Home charging on 120V outlets works in a pinch for Niro EVs, but a 220V Level 2 home charger cuts charging times considerably. Public DC fast charging to 80 percent takes just 45 minutes in 2023 models – handy for urban owners lacking home charging. Kia‘s useful UVO app locates stations and monitors charging status too.
Redesigned 2023 Niro EV Adds Room, Range & New Tech
A mid-cycle update for model year 2023 brings both subtle style changes and more impactful mechanical upgrades to the Niro EV. Let‘s explore what‘s coming when refreshed editions hit Kia showrooms this summer.
Exterior: Familiar Shape, Crisper Details
Kia smartly retains the friendly upright profile Niro buyers responded well too. A slightly widened grille with intricate new mesh pattern and full width front light signature freshen the nose. Revised bumpers fore and aft plus new rocker panels and wheels modernize too. The interior borrows styling cues from the creatively designed EV6 model. Centered screens canted 10 degrees towards the driver make controls intuitive. Available ambient interior lighting sets the mood.
Mechanical Upgrades Boost Range, Charging & Space
Expanding the wheelbase an inch benefits rear seat legroom and cargo room, while a battery pack tweak good for 14 extra miles range aids peace of mind. Safety tech expands with newly available semi-autonomous driving aids during highway driving. But quicker, more powerful DC charging may prove the most valuable upgrade.
| Specification | Upgrade Impact |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 64.8 kWh from 64 kWh |
| Range | EPA estimate rises 14 miles to 253 miles |
| Fast Charging Speed | 10-80% in 45 minutes, 25% quicker |
| Rear Legroom | 1 inch added |
| Cargo Capacity | Up 20% to 57.5 cubic feet |
Cleverly, Kia enlarged the Niro EV‘s interior and range meaningfully without bloating its external footprint. The bump in fast charging speed aids public charging stops too.
New Tech Wins Friends
A first for Niro EVs, available Highway Driving Assist combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering to enable (with supervision) hands-free driving. Vehicle-to-Load charging outlets allow owners to tap the battery to power appliances and electronics anywhere – a great preparedness feature. Inside, ambient lighting provides a sophisticated touch.
How Niro EVs Compare to the Competition
Interest in small electric crossovers is clearly growing judging by success for Hyundai, Volkswagen and Kia entries. With versatile Nissan Leafs holding their own thanks to value pricing, competition is clearly rising. Where does the 2023 update leave the Niro EV against key combustion and EV rivals?
Compact Crossover SUV EVs
| Model | Price | Range | Charge Speed | Cargo Room |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Kia Niro EV | $42,000 | 253 miles | 70 kW | 57.5 cubic feet |
| 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV | $32,500 | 247 miles | 55 kW | 56.9 cubic feet |
| 2023 Hyudai Kona Electric | $35,000 | 258 miles | 75 kW | 45 cubic feet |
| 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 | $37,495 | 275 miles | 125 kW | 64 cubic feet |
Among affordably priced EVs, the refreshed Niro EV holds up very well for features and daily usability. Shoppers wanting maximum mileage or cargo flexibility do have some alternatives. But the Niro EV hits a versatile sweet spot blending efficiency, quality and low ownership costs many buyers will appreciate.
I hope mapping out key specifications and use characteristics for the Kia Niro EV assists your EV research! Please reach out with any other questions.
