The Kia Niro EV: The Volkswagen Golf of the Electric Car World
The Kia Niro EV has been named as one of the seven cars shortlisted for the 2023 Car of the Year award. This second-generation model has already proven to be a popular choice among electric car buyers, with its refinement and reliability making it a top contender in the market. In fact, the Niro EV is often compared to the Volkswagen Golf of the electric car world, as it quietly and brilliantly does it all without any fanfare.
Month 1: Welcoming the Niro to the Fleet
During the first month of testing, the Niro EV proved to be a reliable and efficient family car. The drivetrain is identical to the previous model, with a 201bhp, 291lb ft front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor that draws power from a 64.8kWh (usable capacity) lithium-ion battery. The top speed (104mph) and 0-62mph time (7.8sec) remain the same, making it a competitive choice in the market.
However, the retained maximum charging rate of 72kW now looks a bit pedestrian compared to some EVs’. The early indicated range that was obtained during testing was just shy of 240 miles, which is down from the 250-plus that was seen from the old e-Niro and shy again of the official 285-mile range. Nevertheless, with warmer weather, it is expected that this range will increase.
The Niro is not just an electric car but also a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. They all look the same, with the only real way to tell the EV apart from its stablemates at a quick glance being through the flash of green on the number plate. The HEV and PHEV even use the same 1.6-litre engine, with the latter also drawing electricity from an 11.1kWh battery.
Kia is able to secure buyers who might intend to buy an EV yet when push comes to shove decide otherwise and end up with one of the Niro’s other powertrain options. This is particularly true for those without off-street parking, for whom home charging is more challenging, perhaps their driving needs are such that they need some greater flexibility, or they don’t yet have the confidence of charging infrastructure.
Whatever version they go for, there are the same 2, 3 and 4 trim levels to choose from. The car tested was a 4, and beyond colour (including a contrasting tone for the C-pillars) the only other choice is whether to have a £900 heat pump. The car tested didn’t have this feature, but it’s something that could be added based on past experiences.
The car tested was fully loaded and wants for little. Highlights include the leather-effect ‘vegan’ upholstery (made using Tencel fabric from eucalyptus trees), which elevates the car while remaining durable. The running-in period for the Niro has already been quite extensive, with the recent flurry of comings and goings on the Autocar fleet holding back its debut in these pages. Yet this has simply allowed the new-car glow to last longer, as it has slipped seamlessly into everyday life.
Second Opinion: A Brilliant Advert for Evolution
The Niro EV is a brilliant advert for evolution. Take a car that was a huge hit, carefully address its relatively minor flaws and produce an absolute mainstream smash. This is another reason to compare it to the Golf.
James Attwood
Conclusion
The Kia Niro EV is a top contender in the electric car market, with its reliability and refinement making it a popular choice among buyers. Its dimensions make it feel nicely compact on the roads, and its real-world drivability and pace are excellent. The Niro EV is a versatile car, with hybrid and plug-in hybrid options available, making it a clever strategy that allows buyers to compare apples with apples. Whether you’re ready to go fully electric or prefer the flexibility of a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, the Niro has something to offer.