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| Meta Title | 2021 Kia Niro EV review | CarExpert |
| Meta Description | You can choose between hybrid, PHEV and EV, but it's the latter we are reviewing here. Like all EVs it's expensive, but the 450km driving range is rural-friendly. |
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| Boilerpipe Text | Kia has launched its first all-electric car in Australia, the Niro, having been forced to wait a few years after the global premiere to secure supply.
The
2021 Niro EV
is the updated model already sold in much of Asia and Europe, and brings to the table a sensible design, spacious cabin, and longer range than many urban-focused electric vehicles.
Itâs also based on a five-year old design and is set to be replaced with a brand new model inspired by the awesome 2019 HabaNiro concept car during the course of 2022.
This buttoned-down crossover shapes up as a readymade alternative to the related
Hyundai Kona Electric
, the newly on-sale
Nissan Leaf e+
extended range variant, and
Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus
that just had a price cut.
As importantly, it establishes Kiaâs credentials as a brand set on reducing its environmental impact, ahead of the arrival of the swish EV6 halo car later in the year.
Australiaâs EV take-up is far lower than other mature markets, but demand is nevertheless growing and Kia felt the need to get involved, despite the challenges to getting supply when there are no CO2 targets or nationwide subsidies.
Much like the
Hyundai Ioniq
, Kia actually sells the Niro as a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and an EV, making the wider line-up something of a tech showcase.
But weâve skipped the first two for now to focus on the range-topper for the launch review.
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How much does the Kia Niro EV cost?
There are two spec grades to choose from: the Niro EV S costs $62,590 before on-road costs, and the better-equipped Niro EV Sport as tested here is $65,990 before on-road costs.
That makes it
eligible for Victoriaâs $3000 subsidy
.
For context a
Kona Electric Elite
is $62,000 before on-road costs and a Kona Electric Highlander $66,000.
A Nissan Leaf e+
is $60,490 before on-roads. A Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus is a very sharp (comparatively) $62,900 before on-roads.
Other options are the smaller and shorter-range
Mazda MX-30 E35 Astina
at $65,490,
Mini SE Electric Classic
at $55,650, and
BMW i3 S 120Ah
at $71,900. Again, all these prices are before on-road charges.
The best value EV with similar packaging to the Niro is the
MG ZS EV
at just $43,990 drive-away, though as with the previous trio it offers a shorter driving range.
Lesson of the story? Thereâs still no such thing as a cheap electric car in Australia. But you wouldnât say the Kia is overly expensive against its rivals â though once again, that MG and the base Tesla look like bargainsâŚ
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What do you get?
The base Niro EV S grade comes with:
17-inch alloy wheels
Michelin Primacy 3 tyres
Tyre repair kit
Halogen headlights
Rain-sensing wipers
Proximity key access
Roof rails
Privacy glass
Electric blue bumper highlights
Front-mounted charging port (Type 2 and CCS)
On the inside the Niro EV S gets:
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Single-zone climate control
Powered driverâs seat movement
âPremiumâ leather-trimmed seats
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
Rear-view parking camera
7.0-inch TFT trip computer
8.0-inch centre touchscreen
Six-speaker audio system
Digital radio
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless)
The $3400 more expensive Niro EV Sport as tested here adds the following:
LED projector headlights
High Beam Assist
Electro-chromatic rear-view mirror
Auto up/down front windows
Aluminium pedal caps
10.25-inch touchscreen
Satellite navigation
Eight-speaker JBL audio
On a side note, itâs odd that any EV doesnât have LED headlights as standard.
Is the Kia Niro EV safe?
While the Niro Hybrid and PHEV have five-star ANCAP crash scores with a 2016 date stamp, the EV is in fact unrated.
But itâs nevertheless well-specified with safety features including: dual-front, dual-front-side, and full-length curtain airbags, plus a driverâs knee airbag. There are also three top tether points and two ISOFIX anchors.
Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, leading-vehicle departure alert, a driver monitor, and active cruise control.
To this list the EV Sport variant adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
In short, our test car can brake for obstacles if you donât, mimic the speed of a car ahead while keeping safe distance, alert you to obstacles in your blind spots, and adjust the steering to keep you between road lines if the corner isnât too tight.
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What is the Kia Niro EV like on the inside?
There arenât many telltale signs that youâre climbing into an EV, aside from the cool rotary dial gear shifter thatâs enabled by the shift-by-wire setup. Itâs weighted and suits the task.
The seats are nicely trimmed and comfortable, and have electric adjustment for the driver, but are neither heated nor ventilated and donât have memory presets.
The steering wheel may have the old Kia logo on its centre cap (thatâll change later this year), but itâs nicely trimmed and stitched, offers plenty of adjustment and has well-considered buttons on each spoke.
The digital trip computer is flanked by digitised speedo and tacho, and looks fantastic â all the more so for its simplicity. A head-up display would be a welcome addition.
The 10.25-inch centre touchscreen is embedded in the fascia rather than fitted to it like a tablet, and works great.
You can swipe and pinch like a smartphone thanks to quick data processing, display multiple menus and once (eg. maps and audio), and press shortcut buttons below to get to preset menus.
There are also various menus devoted to charge management functions, showing you your state of charge and range, and directing you to nearby charge stations provided your maps are up to date.
The reversing camera is fine, but I canât help but think a swish 360-degree camera better suits an expensive electric car.
The single-zone climate control system is a ripper, especially the Europe-ready heating that proved helpful on a freezing Melbourne night. You can also press a button to make the A/C or heating only target the driverâs side to save energy.
Up front you get three USB points and a 12V socket, but thereâs no wireless charging pad.
Storage options are plentiful, with the centre tunnel alone offering a console plus a large closing cubby with deployable cup holders, and a two-tier open stowage area below the fascia.
The build quality is hard to fault, and while the materials donât scream âpremiumâ, theyâre fine. That said, thereâs too much dust- and scratch-enhancing glossy black trims everywhere which are sure to age poorly.
The back seats are good, with space for my 194cm frame behind my preferred driving position. I ferried around four people a few times with no complaints.
The boot is a spacious
451 litres
, which is actually more than either the PHEV or regular hybrid offer.
On an airport run I easily fit two large check-in suitcases without fuss. Itâs certainly roomier than a Kona.
Kia Niro
Hyundai Kona
Nissan Leaf
Length
4375mm
4205mm
4490mm
Width
1805mm
1800mm
1788mm
Height
1570mm
1570mm
1540mm
Wheelbase
2700mm
2600mm
2700kg
Max weight
1791kg
1743kg
1736kg
Boot space
451L
332L
405L
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Whatâs under the bonnet?
The Niro EV is front-wheel drive. The wheels are driven by a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor making
150kW
of power and
395Nm
of instantaneous torque, via a single-speed transmission (reduction gear).
The lithium-ion polymer, liquid-cooled battery pack in the floor has
64kWh
of energy storage capacity, and the pack weighs 457kg. Assuming average energy consumption of 159Wh per 100km this gives a generous range of
455km
on the European WLTP driving standard.
This is the same drivetrain as the Kona Electric but the Hyundai is more efficient and therefore has a longer 484km range.
But, the Niroâs range
claim
outstrips the base 54kWh Tesla Model 3âs WLTP range of 448km, the 62kWh Leaf e+ with its 385km range, the 44.5kWh MG ZS EVâs 263km range, and the Mazda MX-30âs meagre 200km range.
The best ways to charge are either through a house AC single-phase 7.2kW-capable wallbox overnight (empty to full in about 9.5 hours), or at a DC fast charger thatâll zap you from empty to 80 per cent in between 54 minutes (100kW station) or 75 minutes (50kW station).
Kia will arrange an EVSE wallbox installation for just under $3000 in most cases. The DC public charger network with CCS Type 2 plugs is growing, through providers such as Chargefox. Kiaâs dealers are also installing chargers.
Quick specs:
150kW/395Nm motor
Front-wheel drive
Single-speed reduction gear
64kWh lithium-ion battery with liquid cooling
15.9kWh per kilometre consumption
455km of driving range
AC recharge in 9.5 hours
DC charge to 80 per cent in 54-75 minutes
My 0-100km/h average was 7.8 seconds
How does the Kia Niro EV drive?
Like all EVs it has heaps of instant poke because the motor delivers torque from zero revolutions.
I managed a 7.8-second 0-100km/h dash and even chirped the front tyres when trying to bolt off the mark, and itâs even more contextually pokey up to 60km/h before the motor tapers off.
Itâs utterly silent under heavy throttle, except at super low speeds where it emits a space-age hum to alert pedestrians to your presence.
My route was a 194.6km loop, and the trip computer said I drove 87 per cent economically, 10 per cent normally, and 3 per cent dynamically.
The yield was consumption of
15.1kWh per 100km
, though the ambient temperature dipped below five degrees which always hinders range. In general stop/start driving at midday I saw a figure of
14kWh per 100km
.
Regardless, the driving range you can expect to get is
between 350km and 450km
depending on how hard and fast you go, how much youâre carrying, and the weather. The 455km WLTP claim is achievable with some care.
Visiting a DC charger, I was able to draw 46kW into the vehicle and added about 115km of range in 30 minutes while grabbing a quick bite.
There are various driving modes that sharpen up the throttle response and load up the steering, and four levels of brake-energy recuperation controlled by the tactile paddle shifters. If you hold down the left paddle you can use the brake regen to bring to car to a stop, like a Nissan Leaf.
The dynamic setup comprises strut front suspension and multiple linkages at the rear, passive dampers, motor-driven steering, and Michelin Primacy 3 tyres.
Unlike all other Kias, the Niro doesnât benefit from an Australia-specific spring/damper/bar tune, instead using the European setup. The stated reason is that the Niro is a niche car here thatâs late in its life cycle, so why spend all that engineering budget?
Itâs generally a pretty comfy car, able to round off smaller road imperfections, while the steering is nicely weighted and responsive, and the 70dB road-noise reading I got at 100km/h is entirely reasonable despite the lack of ambient engine noise.
The Niro canât entirely hide the added EV weight though, in that at higher speeds and through corners, it doesnât feel overly light on its feet. However for the most part itâs a consummate urban commuter.
How much does the Kia Niro EV cost to run?
All Niros get a
seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty
with roadside assist, except the battery which only has seven years or 150,000km of warranty.
The battery warranty applies if the total capacity has fallen below 75 per cent after seven years.
You can pre-purchase servicing at intervals of 12 months or 15,000km. Three years of servicing is
$1164
, five years
$1728
, and seven years
$2800
â an average of $400 per year all up. The most expensive component is replacing the battery cooling liquid.
CarExpertâs Take on the Kia Niro EV
Itâs not the last word in sexy exciting design, and like all EVs itâs pretty expensive. No doubt the 2022 model styled on the HabaNiro will change one or both of these things.
But the Niro is more practical than a Hyundai Kona, and has more range than a Nissan Leaf or MG ZS EV. It also has plenty of zip and a well-considered cabin.
Click the images for the full gallery
MORE:
Kia Niro news, reviews, comparisons and videos |
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# 2021 Kia Niro EV review
You can choose between hybrid, PHEV and EV, but it's the latter we are reviewing here. Like all EVs it's expensive, but the 450km driving range is rural-friendly.
20 May 2021 at 2:01 pm
[20 Comments](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-reviews/2021-kia-niro-ev-review#article_comments)
Very Good
Show all photos
[Mike Costello](https://www.carexpert.com.au/author/mike-costello)
Senior Contributor
#### Model tested
[2021 Kia Niro](https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/niro)
**Better deals** with CarExpert
From
\$43,846â
driveaway
[Find a deal](https://www.carexpert.com.au/buy/kia/niro)
Show all
[Mike Costello](https://www.carexpert.com.au/author/mike-costello)
Senior Contributor
#### Model tested
[2021 Kia Niro](https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/niro)
**Better deals** with CarExpert
From
\$43,846â
driveaway
[Find a deal](https://www.carexpert.com.au/buy/kia/niro)
[Mike Costello](https://www.carexpert.com.au/author/mike-costello)
Senior Contributor
#### Model tested
[2021 Kia Niro](https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/niro)
**Better deals** with CarExpert
From
\$43,846â
driveaway
[Find a deal](https://www.carexpert.com.au/buy/kia/niro)
Show all
[Mike Costello](https://www.carexpert.com.au/author/mike-costello)
Senior Contributor
#### Model tested
[2021 Kia Niro](https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/niro)
**Better deals** with CarExpert
From
\$43,846â
driveaway
[Find a deal](https://www.carexpert.com.au/buy/kia/niro)
### Pros
- Excellent 450km-plus range
- Spacious back seats and boot
- Sprightly acceleration, nice steering
### Cons
- Looks dull next to a Kona Electric
- Base grade's halogen headlights
- EV variants lack ANCAP crash rating
### Pros
- Excellent 450km-plus range
- Spacious back seats and boot
- Sprightly acceleration, nice steering
### Cons
- Looks dull next to a Kona Electric
- Base grade's halogen headlights
- EV variants lack ANCAP crash rating
### From expert reviews to the right deal
CarExpert brings together reviews, research tools and trusted buying support, guiding you from research to delivery with confidence.
[View Showroom](https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/niro)[Compare cars](https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/niro/vs)[Find my deal](https://www.carexpert.com.au/buy/kia/niro)
Kia has launched its first all-electric car in Australia, the Niro, having been forced to wait a few years after the global premiere to secure supply.
The **2021 Niro EV** is the updated model already sold in much of Asia and Europe, and brings to the table a sensible design, spacious cabin, and longer range than many urban-focused electric vehicles.
Itâs also based on a five-year old design and is set to be replaced with a brand new model inspired by the awesome 2019 HabaNiro concept car during the course of 2022.
This buttoned-down crossover shapes up as a readymade alternative to the related [Hyundai Kona Electric](https://www.carexpert.com.au/hyundai/kona), the newly on-sale [Nissan Leaf e+](https://www.carexpert.com.au/nissan/leaf) extended range variant, and [Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus](https://www.carexpert.com.au/tesla/model-3) that just had a price cut.
As importantly, it establishes Kiaâs credentials as a brand set on reducing its environmental impact, ahead of the arrival of the swish EV6 halo car later in the year.
Australiaâs EV take-up is far lower than other mature markets, but demand is nevertheless growing and Kia felt the need to get involved, despite the challenges to getting supply when there are no CO2 targets or nationwide subsidies.
Much like the [Hyundai Ioniq](https://www.carexpert.com.au/hyundai/ioniq), Kia actually sells the Niro as a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and an EV, making the wider line-up something of a tech showcase.
But weâve skipped the first two for now to focus on the range-topper for the launch review.
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#### How much does the Kia Niro EV cost?
There are two spec grades to choose from: the Niro EV S costs \$62,590 before on-road costs, and the better-equipped Niro EV Sport as tested here is \$65,990 before on-road costs.
That makes it [eligible for Victoriaâs \$3000 subsidy](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/victoria-commits-to-electric-car-subsidies-2030-sales-target).
For context a [Kona Electric Elite](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2021-hyundai-kona-electric-price-and-specs) is \$62,000 before on-road costs and a Kona Electric Highlander \$66,000. [A Nissan Leaf e+](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2021-nissan-leaf-price-and-specs) is \$60,490 before on-roads. A Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus is a very sharp (comparatively) \$62,900 before on-roads.
Other options are the smaller and shorter-range [Mazda MX-30 E35 Astina](https://www.carexpert.com.au/mazda/mx-30) at \$65,490, [Mini SE Electric Classic](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2021-mini-hatch-and-convertible-price-and-specs) at \$55,650, and [BMW i3 S 120Ah](https://www.carexpert.com.au/bmw/i3) at \$71,900. Again, all these prices are before on-road charges.
The best value EV with similar packaging to the Niro is the [MG ZS EV](https://www.carexpert.com.au/mg/zs) at just \$43,990 drive-away, though as with the previous trio it offers a shorter driving range.
Lesson of the story? Thereâs still no such thing as a cheap electric car in Australia. But you wouldnât say the Kia is overly expensive against its rivals â though once again, that MG and the base Tesla look like bargainsâŚ
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CarExpert helped Craig save thousands on his Ford Ranger, now let us save you on your next new car.
[Find my deal](https://www.carexpert.com.au/buy/kia/niro)
#### What do you get?
**The base Niro EV S grade comes with:**
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Michelin Primacy 3 tyres
- Tyre repair kit
- Halogen headlights
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Proximity key access
- Roof rails
- Privacy glass
- Electric blue bumper highlights
- Front-mounted charging port (Type 2 and CCS)
**On the inside the Niro EV S gets:**
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Single-zone climate control
- Powered driverâs seat movement
- âPremiumâ leather-trimmed seats
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
- Rear-view parking camera
- 7\.0-inch TFT trip computer
- 8\.0-inch centre touchscreen
- Six-speaker audio system
- Digital radio
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless)
**The \$3400 more expensive Niro EV Sport as tested here adds the following:**
- LED projector headlights
- High Beam Assist
- Electro-chromatic rear-view mirror
- Auto up/down front windows
- Aluminium pedal caps
- 10\.25-inch touchscreen
- Satellite navigation
- Eight-speaker JBL audio
On a side note, itâs odd that any EV doesnât have LED headlights as standard.
#### Is the Kia Niro EV safe?
While the Niro Hybrid and PHEV have five-star ANCAP crash scores with a 2016 date stamp, the EV is in fact unrated.
But itâs nevertheless well-specified with safety features including: dual-front, dual-front-side, and full-length curtain airbags, plus a driverâs knee airbag. There are also three top tether points and two ISOFIX anchors.
Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, leading-vehicle departure alert, a driver monitor, and active cruise control.
To this list the EV Sport variant adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
In short, our test car can brake for obstacles if you donât, mimic the speed of a car ahead while keeping safe distance, alert you to obstacles in your blind spots, and adjust the steering to keep you between road lines if the corner isnât too tight.
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#### What is the Kia Niro EV like on the inside?
There arenât many telltale signs that youâre climbing into an EV, aside from the cool rotary dial gear shifter thatâs enabled by the shift-by-wire setup. Itâs weighted and suits the task.
The seats are nicely trimmed and comfortable, and have electric adjustment for the driver, but are neither heated nor ventilated and donât have memory presets.
The steering wheel may have the old Kia logo on its centre cap (thatâll change later this year), but itâs nicely trimmed and stitched, offers plenty of adjustment and has well-considered buttons on each spoke.
The digital trip computer is flanked by digitised speedo and tacho, and looks fantastic â all the more so for its simplicity. A head-up display would be a welcome addition.
The 10.25-inch centre touchscreen is embedded in the fascia rather than fitted to it like a tablet, and works great.
You can swipe and pinch like a smartphone thanks to quick data processing, display multiple menus and once (eg. maps and audio), and press shortcut buttons below to get to preset menus.
There are also various menus devoted to charge management functions, showing you your state of charge and range, and directing you to nearby charge stations provided your maps are up to date.
The reversing camera is fine, but I canât help but think a swish 360-degree camera better suits an expensive electric car.
The single-zone climate control system is a ripper, especially the Europe-ready heating that proved helpful on a freezing Melbourne night. You can also press a button to make the A/C or heating only target the driverâs side to save energy.
Up front you get three USB points and a 12V socket, but thereâs no wireless charging pad.
Storage options are plentiful, with the centre tunnel alone offering a console plus a large closing cubby with deployable cup holders, and a two-tier open stowage area below the fascia.
The build quality is hard to fault, and while the materials donât scream âpremiumâ, theyâre fine. That said, thereâs too much dust- and scratch-enhancing glossy black trims everywhere which are sure to age poorly.
The back seats are good, with space for my 194cm frame behind my preferred driving position. I ferried around four people a few times with no complaints.
The boot is a spacious **451 litres**, which is actually more than either the PHEV or regular hybrid offer.
On an airport run I easily fit two large check-in suitcases without fuss. Itâs certainly roomier than a Kona.
| | **Kia Niro** | **Hyundai Kona** | **Nissan Leaf** |
|---|---|---|---|
| **Length** | 4375mm | 4205mm | 4490mm |
| **Width** | 1805mm | 1800mm | 1788mm |
| **Height** | 1570mm | 1570mm | 1540mm |
| **Wheelbase** | 2700mm | 2600mm | 2700kg |
| **Max weight** | 1791kg | 1743kg | 1736kg |
| **Boot space** | 451L | 332L | 405L |
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#### Whatâs under the bonnet?
The Niro EV is front-wheel drive. The wheels are driven by a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor making **150kW** of power and **395Nm** of instantaneous torque, via a single-speed transmission (reduction gear).
The lithium-ion polymer, liquid-cooled battery pack in the floor has **64kWh** of energy storage capacity, and the pack weighs 457kg. Assuming average energy consumption of 159Wh per 100km this gives a generous range of **455km** on the European WLTP driving standard.
This is the same drivetrain as the Kona Electric but the Hyundai is more efficient and therefore has a longer 484km range.
But, the Niroâs range *claim* outstrips the base 54kWh Tesla Model 3âs WLTP range of 448km, the 62kWh Leaf e+ with its 385km range, the 44.5kWh MG ZS EVâs 263km range, and the Mazda MX-30âs meagre 200km range.
The best ways to charge are either through a house AC single-phase 7.2kW-capable wallbox overnight (empty to full in about 9.5 hours), or at a DC fast charger thatâll zap you from empty to 80 per cent in between 54 minutes (100kW station) or 75 minutes (50kW station).
Kia will arrange an EVSE wallbox installation for just under \$3000 in most cases. The DC public charger network with CCS Type 2 plugs is growing, through providers such as Chargefox. Kiaâs dealers are also installing chargers.
**Quick specs:**
- 150kW/395Nm motor
- Front-wheel drive
- Single-speed reduction gear
- 64kWh lithium-ion battery with liquid cooling
- 15\.9kWh per kilometre consumption
- 455km of driving range
- AC recharge in 9.5 hours
- DC charge to 80 per cent in 54-75 minutes
- My 0-100km/h average was 7.8 seconds
#### How does the Kia Niro EV drive?
Like all EVs it has heaps of instant poke because the motor delivers torque from zero revolutions.
I managed a 7.8-second 0-100km/h dash and even chirped the front tyres when trying to bolt off the mark, and itâs even more contextually pokey up to 60km/h before the motor tapers off.
Itâs utterly silent under heavy throttle, except at super low speeds where it emits a space-age hum to alert pedestrians to your presence.
My route was a 194.6km loop, and the trip computer said I drove 87 per cent economically, 10 per cent normally, and 3 per cent dynamically.
The yield was consumption of **15\.1kWh per 100km**, though the ambient temperature dipped below five degrees which always hinders range. In general stop/start driving at midday I saw a figure of **14kWh per 100km**.
Regardless, the driving range you can expect to get is **between 350km and 450km** depending on how hard and fast you go, how much youâre carrying, and the weather. The 455km WLTP claim is achievable with some care.
Visiting a DC charger, I was able to draw 46kW into the vehicle and added about 115km of range in 30 minutes while grabbing a quick bite.
There are various driving modes that sharpen up the throttle response and load up the steering, and four levels of brake-energy recuperation controlled by the tactile paddle shifters. If you hold down the left paddle you can use the brake regen to bring to car to a stop, like a Nissan Leaf.
The dynamic setup comprises strut front suspension and multiple linkages at the rear, passive dampers, motor-driven steering, and Michelin Primacy 3 tyres.
Unlike all other Kias, the Niro doesnât benefit from an Australia-specific spring/damper/bar tune, instead using the European setup. The stated reason is that the Niro is a niche car here thatâs late in its life cycle, so why spend all that engineering budget?
Itâs generally a pretty comfy car, able to round off smaller road imperfections, while the steering is nicely weighted and responsive, and the 70dB road-noise reading I got at 100km/h is entirely reasonable despite the lack of ambient engine noise.
The Niro canât entirely hide the added EV weight though, in that at higher speeds and through corners, it doesnât feel overly light on its feet. However for the most part itâs a consummate urban commuter.
#### How much does the Kia Niro EV cost to run?
All Niros get a **seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty** with roadside assist, except the battery which only has seven years or 150,000km of warranty.
The battery warranty applies if the total capacity has fallen below 75 per cent after seven years.
You can pre-purchase servicing at intervals of 12 months or 15,000km. Three years of servicing is **\$1164**, five years **\$1728**, and seven years **\$2800** â an average of \$400 per year all up. The most expensive component is replacing the battery cooling liquid.
#### CarExpertâs Take on the Kia Niro EV
Itâs not the last word in sexy exciting design, and like all EVs itâs pretty expensive. No doubt the 2022 model styled on the HabaNiro will change one or both of these things.
But the Niro is more practical than a Hyundai Kona, and has more range than a Nissan Leaf or MG ZS EV. It also has plenty of zip and a well-considered cabin.
*Click the images for the full gallery*
**MORE:** [**Kia Niro news, reviews, comparisons and videos**](https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/niro)
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CarExpert Rating
Very Good
This rating has been converted from our previous rating system. [Read about our new review ratings.](https://www.carexpert.com.au/opinion/our-ratings-suck-so-we-are-changing-them)
Are there other rating labels?
Excellent
An outstanding car in almost every way. A joy to drive, packed with great features, and highly recommended.
Very Good
A well-rounded car that's enjoyable to drive, offers great value or features, and is easy to recommend.
Good
A solid choice that does most things well. Comfortable, capable, and worth considering in this segment.
Average
Meets the standard for this segment. May not stand out, but still a dependable and reasonable option.
Below Average
Falls a bit behind others in the segment, but still passes safety checks and may suit specific needs or budgets.
## Comparative Rating
Quickly see how this car stacks up against its competition. Select any benchmark to see more details.
Power to Weight
66\.5 - 83.75 kW/t
66\.5 kW/t
175\.64 kW/t
Boot Space
324 - 451 litres
220 litres
530 litres
Fuel Efficiency
1\.3 - 4.4 L/100km
1\.3 L/100km
9\.6 L/100km
Vehicle Range
1,023 - 1,184 km
531 km
1,184 km
Price
\$43,846 - \$71,219
\$37,833.7
\$115,429
Warranty (Years)
7 years
2 years
7 years
Warranty (Distance)
Unlimited
100,000 km
Unlimited
Years on Sale
4 years
1 year
7 years
Service Interval
12 months
12 months
24 months
## Towing & Off-Road Capability
Gross Vehicle Weight
1,930 - 2,230 kg
1,740 kg
2,470 kg
Braked Towing Capacity
300 - 1,300 kg
300 kg
2,100 kg
Ground Clearance Unladen
155 - 160 mm
143 mm
221 mm
## Battery & Charging
Max. battery kilowatt hour
1\.6 - 64 kWh
0\.2 kWh
66\.5 kWh
AC Charging (max kW)
3\.3 - 7.2 kW
3\.3 kW
11 kW
DC Fast Charging (max kW)
100 kW
100 kW
Vehicle Range (EV)
58 - 455 km
44 km
480 km
##
Kia Niro
## Sales Data
20241,455Total Sales
2025454Total Sales
202690YTD Sales
Kia Niro Sales rolling 12-months\#
30
60
90
120
150
180
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Last 12 months
Previous period
\*Based on VFACTS and EVC data
Looking for complete Kia Niro price history?
Our [Kia Niro Pricing Page](https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/niro/pricing) shows exactly how prices have changed over time.
Explore Variants
## Build your new Kia Niro
Select your specs to find the perfect Kia for you.
### Vehicle Configurator
Clear Filters
S
2025
\$49,066
Gt-Line
2026
\$54,998
Gt-Line
2025
\$77,908
Year
2026
2025
Engine Type
1\.6L Hybrid
Fuel
Unleaded
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Body Type
Hatchback
Number of Doors
5 Doors
Drivetrain
Front
Maximum Power
104 kW
150 kW
### Choose your preferences
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##### Senior Contributor
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CarExpert Rating
Very Good
This rating has been converted from our previous rating system. [Read about our new review ratings.](https://www.carexpert.com.au/opinion/our-ratings-suck-so-we-are-changing-them)
Are there other rating labels?
Excellent
An outstanding car in almost every way. A joy to drive, packed with great features, and highly recommended.
Very Good
A well-rounded car that's enjoyable to drive, offers great value or features, and is easy to recommend.
Good
A solid choice that does most things well. Comfortable, capable, and worth considering in this segment.
Average
Meets the standard for this segment. May not stand out, but still a dependable and reasonable option.
Below Average
Falls a bit behind others in the segment, but still passes safety checks and may suit specific needs or budgets.
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| Readable Markdown | Kia has launched its first all-electric car in Australia, the Niro, having been forced to wait a few years after the global premiere to secure supply.
The **2021 Niro EV** is the updated model already sold in much of Asia and Europe, and brings to the table a sensible design, spacious cabin, and longer range than many urban-focused electric vehicles.
Itâs also based on a five-year old design and is set to be replaced with a brand new model inspired by the awesome 2019 HabaNiro concept car during the course of 2022.
This buttoned-down crossover shapes up as a readymade alternative to the related [Hyundai Kona Electric](https://www.carexpert.com.au/hyundai/kona), the newly on-sale [Nissan Leaf e+](https://www.carexpert.com.au/nissan/leaf) extended range variant, and [Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus](https://www.carexpert.com.au/tesla/model-3) that just had a price cut.
As importantly, it establishes Kiaâs credentials as a brand set on reducing its environmental impact, ahead of the arrival of the swish EV6 halo car later in the year.
Australiaâs EV take-up is far lower than other mature markets, but demand is nevertheless growing and Kia felt the need to get involved, despite the challenges to getting supply when there are no CO2 targets or nationwide subsidies.
Much like the [Hyundai Ioniq](https://www.carexpert.com.au/hyundai/ioniq), Kia actually sells the Niro as a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and an EV, making the wider line-up something of a tech showcase.
But weâve skipped the first two for now to focus on the range-topper for the launch review.
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#### How much does the Kia Niro EV cost?
There are two spec grades to choose from: the Niro EV S costs \$62,590 before on-road costs, and the better-equipped Niro EV Sport as tested here is \$65,990 before on-road costs.
That makes it [eligible for Victoriaâs \$3000 subsidy](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/victoria-commits-to-electric-car-subsidies-2030-sales-target).
For context a [Kona Electric Elite](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2021-hyundai-kona-electric-price-and-specs) is \$62,000 before on-road costs and a Kona Electric Highlander \$66,000. [A Nissan Leaf e+](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2021-nissan-leaf-price-and-specs) is \$60,490 before on-roads. A Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus is a very sharp (comparatively) \$62,900 before on-roads.
Other options are the smaller and shorter-range [Mazda MX-30 E35 Astina](https://www.carexpert.com.au/mazda/mx-30) at \$65,490, [Mini SE Electric Classic](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2021-mini-hatch-and-convertible-price-and-specs) at \$55,650, and [BMW i3 S 120Ah](https://www.carexpert.com.au/bmw/i3) at \$71,900. Again, all these prices are before on-road charges.
The best value EV with similar packaging to the Niro is the [MG ZS EV](https://www.carexpert.com.au/mg/zs) at just \$43,990 drive-away, though as with the previous trio it offers a shorter driving range.
Lesson of the story? Thereâs still no such thing as a cheap electric car in Australia. But you wouldnât say the Kia is overly expensive against its rivals â though once again, that MG and the base Tesla look like bargainsâŚ
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#### What do you get?
**The base Niro EV S grade comes with:**
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Michelin Primacy 3 tyres
- Tyre repair kit
- Halogen headlights
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Proximity key access
- Roof rails
- Privacy glass
- Electric blue bumper highlights
- Front-mounted charging port (Type 2 and CCS)
**On the inside the Niro EV S gets:**
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Single-zone climate control
- Powered driverâs seat movement
- âPremiumâ leather-trimmed seats
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
- Rear-view parking camera
- 7\.0-inch TFT trip computer
- 8\.0-inch centre touchscreen
- Six-speaker audio system
- Digital radio
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless)
**The \$3400 more expensive Niro EV Sport as tested here adds the following:**
- LED projector headlights
- High Beam Assist
- Electro-chromatic rear-view mirror
- Auto up/down front windows
- Aluminium pedal caps
- 10\.25-inch touchscreen
- Satellite navigation
- Eight-speaker JBL audio
On a side note, itâs odd that any EV doesnât have LED headlights as standard.
#### Is the Kia Niro EV safe?
While the Niro Hybrid and PHEV have five-star ANCAP crash scores with a 2016 date stamp, the EV is in fact unrated.
But itâs nevertheless well-specified with safety features including: dual-front, dual-front-side, and full-length curtain airbags, plus a driverâs knee airbag. There are also three top tether points and two ISOFIX anchors.
Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, leading-vehicle departure alert, a driver monitor, and active cruise control.
To this list the EV Sport variant adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
In short, our test car can brake for obstacles if you donât, mimic the speed of a car ahead while keeping safe distance, alert you to obstacles in your blind spots, and adjust the steering to keep you between road lines if the corner isnât too tight.
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#### What is the Kia Niro EV like on the inside?
There arenât many telltale signs that youâre climbing into an EV, aside from the cool rotary dial gear shifter thatâs enabled by the shift-by-wire setup. Itâs weighted and suits the task.
The seats are nicely trimmed and comfortable, and have electric adjustment for the driver, but are neither heated nor ventilated and donât have memory presets.
The steering wheel may have the old Kia logo on its centre cap (thatâll change later this year), but itâs nicely trimmed and stitched, offers plenty of adjustment and has well-considered buttons on each spoke.
The digital trip computer is flanked by digitised speedo and tacho, and looks fantastic â all the more so for its simplicity. A head-up display would be a welcome addition.
The 10.25-inch centre touchscreen is embedded in the fascia rather than fitted to it like a tablet, and works great.
You can swipe and pinch like a smartphone thanks to quick data processing, display multiple menus and once (eg. maps and audio), and press shortcut buttons below to get to preset menus.
There are also various menus devoted to charge management functions, showing you your state of charge and range, and directing you to nearby charge stations provided your maps are up to date.
The reversing camera is fine, but I canât help but think a swish 360-degree camera better suits an expensive electric car.
The single-zone climate control system is a ripper, especially the Europe-ready heating that proved helpful on a freezing Melbourne night. You can also press a button to make the A/C or heating only target the driverâs side to save energy.
Up front you get three USB points and a 12V socket, but thereâs no wireless charging pad.
Storage options are plentiful, with the centre tunnel alone offering a console plus a large closing cubby with deployable cup holders, and a two-tier open stowage area below the fascia.
The build quality is hard to fault, and while the materials donât scream âpremiumâ, theyâre fine. That said, thereâs too much dust- and scratch-enhancing glossy black trims everywhere which are sure to age poorly.
The back seats are good, with space for my 194cm frame behind my preferred driving position. I ferried around four people a few times with no complaints.
The boot is a spacious **451 litres**, which is actually more than either the PHEV or regular hybrid offer.
On an airport run I easily fit two large check-in suitcases without fuss. Itâs certainly roomier than a Kona.
| | **Kia Niro** | **Hyundai Kona** | **Nissan Leaf** |
|---|---|---|---|
| **Length** | 4375mm | 4205mm | 4490mm |
| **Width** | 1805mm | 1800mm | 1788mm |
| **Height** | 1570mm | 1570mm | 1540mm |
| **Wheelbase** | 2700mm | 2600mm | 2700kg |
| **Max weight** | 1791kg | 1743kg | 1736kg |
| **Boot space** | 451L | 332L | 405L |
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#### Whatâs under the bonnet?
The Niro EV is front-wheel drive. The wheels are driven by a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor making **150kW** of power and **395Nm** of instantaneous torque, via a single-speed transmission (reduction gear).
The lithium-ion polymer, liquid-cooled battery pack in the floor has **64kWh** of energy storage capacity, and the pack weighs 457kg. Assuming average energy consumption of 159Wh per 100km this gives a generous range of **455km** on the European WLTP driving standard.
This is the same drivetrain as the Kona Electric but the Hyundai is more efficient and therefore has a longer 484km range.
But, the Niroâs range *claim* outstrips the base 54kWh Tesla Model 3âs WLTP range of 448km, the 62kWh Leaf e+ with its 385km range, the 44.5kWh MG ZS EVâs 263km range, and the Mazda MX-30âs meagre 200km range.
The best ways to charge are either through a house AC single-phase 7.2kW-capable wallbox overnight (empty to full in about 9.5 hours), or at a DC fast charger thatâll zap you from empty to 80 per cent in between 54 minutes (100kW station) or 75 minutes (50kW station).
Kia will arrange an EVSE wallbox installation for just under \$3000 in most cases. The DC public charger network with CCS Type 2 plugs is growing, through providers such as Chargefox. Kiaâs dealers are also installing chargers.
**Quick specs:**
- 150kW/395Nm motor
- Front-wheel drive
- Single-speed reduction gear
- 64kWh lithium-ion battery with liquid cooling
- 15\.9kWh per kilometre consumption
- 455km of driving range
- AC recharge in 9.5 hours
- DC charge to 80 per cent in 54-75 minutes
- My 0-100km/h average was 7.8 seconds
#### How does the Kia Niro EV drive?
Like all EVs it has heaps of instant poke because the motor delivers torque from zero revolutions.
I managed a 7.8-second 0-100km/h dash and even chirped the front tyres when trying to bolt off the mark, and itâs even more contextually pokey up to 60km/h before the motor tapers off.
Itâs utterly silent under heavy throttle, except at super low speeds where it emits a space-age hum to alert pedestrians to your presence.
My route was a 194.6km loop, and the trip computer said I drove 87 per cent economically, 10 per cent normally, and 3 per cent dynamically.
The yield was consumption of **15\.1kWh per 100km**, though the ambient temperature dipped below five degrees which always hinders range. In general stop/start driving at midday I saw a figure of **14kWh per 100km**.
Regardless, the driving range you can expect to get is **between 350km and 450km** depending on how hard and fast you go, how much youâre carrying, and the weather. The 455km WLTP claim is achievable with some care.
Visiting a DC charger, I was able to draw 46kW into the vehicle and added about 115km of range in 30 minutes while grabbing a quick bite.
There are various driving modes that sharpen up the throttle response and load up the steering, and four levels of brake-energy recuperation controlled by the tactile paddle shifters. If you hold down the left paddle you can use the brake regen to bring to car to a stop, like a Nissan Leaf.
The dynamic setup comprises strut front suspension and multiple linkages at the rear, passive dampers, motor-driven steering, and Michelin Primacy 3 tyres.
Unlike all other Kias, the Niro doesnât benefit from an Australia-specific spring/damper/bar tune, instead using the European setup. The stated reason is that the Niro is a niche car here thatâs late in its life cycle, so why spend all that engineering budget?
Itâs generally a pretty comfy car, able to round off smaller road imperfections, while the steering is nicely weighted and responsive, and the 70dB road-noise reading I got at 100km/h is entirely reasonable despite the lack of ambient engine noise.
The Niro canât entirely hide the added EV weight though, in that at higher speeds and through corners, it doesnât feel overly light on its feet. However for the most part itâs a consummate urban commuter.
#### How much does the Kia Niro EV cost to run?
All Niros get a **seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty** with roadside assist, except the battery which only has seven years or 150,000km of warranty.
The battery warranty applies if the total capacity has fallen below 75 per cent after seven years.
You can pre-purchase servicing at intervals of 12 months or 15,000km. Three years of servicing is **\$1164**, five years **\$1728**, and seven years **\$2800** â an average of \$400 per year all up. The most expensive component is replacing the battery cooling liquid.
#### CarExpertâs Take on the Kia Niro EV
Itâs not the last word in sexy exciting design, and like all EVs itâs pretty expensive. No doubt the 2022 model styled on the HabaNiro will change one or both of these things.
But the Niro is more practical than a Hyundai Kona, and has more range than a Nissan Leaf or MG ZS EV. It also has plenty of zip and a well-considered cabin.
*Click the images for the full gallery*
**MORE:** [**Kia Niro news, reviews, comparisons and videos**](https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/niro) |
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