2021 Kia Niro EV Review

Name: 2021 Kia Niro EV
Brand: Kia

Price: $18,990

Kia Niro EV EX Premium 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

Great

8.3

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

The 2021 Kia Niro EV is a feature-packed hatchback with 239 miles of range and an eager-to-please personality. Quick acceleration and stable handling also make the Niro EV more fun to drive than its eco-friendly nature might suggest. Other highlights include a spacious and well-thought-out interior and plenty of standard features.

See all features & specs

Price & Payment

Select year

Average price: $16,995

Min$

Max$

See listings

Appraise My 2021 Kia Niro EV

Pros

Impressive list of standard safety features
Plenty of estimated and real-world range
Zippy acceleration and stable handling
Clever interior storage options

Cons

SUV style but lacks basic SUV capability
Narrow rear-window visibility makes reversing a minor challenge
Low-grip tires limit performance potential

What's new

EX trim gets wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Remote start feature allows for heating or cooling of the cabin
Expanded availability of advanced driver assist features
Part of the first Niro generation introduced for 2017

Overview

Written by automotive expert Dan Frio

8/30/2021

Depending on what angle you view it from, the position of the sun, and any preconceived ideas you hold about automotive design, the 2021 Kia Niro EV can be a wagon, a hatchback or an SUV. Calling the Niro an SUV, as Kia does, is a bit ambitious — ground clearance is low, cargo space is minimal, and there's no all-wheel drive — but regardless of body style, the all-electric Niro EV completes a trio of energy-efficient alternatives that include the Niro hybrid and plug-in hybrid.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

10 listings

Sort by:

New Listing
2021 Kia Niro EV
EX Premium 4dr SUV
$17,288
- 41,447 miles
- 239 mi range
- 249 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in New Bern, NC
BACKUP CAMERA, NAVIGATION, APPLE CARPLAY, ANDROID AUTO, TOUCH SCREEN, HARMAN KARDON PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEM, SUNROOF/MOONROOF, HEATED STEERING WHEEL, HEA...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
Listing Information:
VIN: KNDCE3LG4M5086978
Stock: P10983
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 03-11-2026
2021 Kia Niro EV
EX 4dr SUV
$16,319
fair price
$909 below market
- 52,068 miles
- 239 mi range
- 292 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Blind Spot Monitorin...
- Power Driver Seat
Close
Located in Columbus, OH
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
Listing Information:
VIN: KNDCC3LG4M5105437
Stock: P21569
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 04-19-2026

See all for sale

A 64-kWh battery and 201-horsepower electric motor combine for quick acceleration and a stated range of 239 miles on a full charge. That's not as much as rivals such as the Chevrolet Bolt or Tesla Model 3, although we found the Kia capable of more real-world distance in our testing. Roomy seating and an array of standard features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration further enhance the Niro EV's appeal. Be sure to read our test team's opinion in our Expert Rating below and learn why the Niro EV is one of our top-ranked electric vehicles.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Great

8.3

out of 10

We drove the 2021 Kia Niro EV on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

8/10

How does the Niro EV drive? Kia markets the Niro EV as a crossover SUV, but it moves and handles more like a small performance car. Power is plentiful, immediate and delivered smoothly. In Edmunds' testing, our Niro EV tester accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. That's noticeably quicker than rival EVs such as the Chevy Bolt and Nissan Leaf, though the Tesla Model 3 is quicker still.

The braking is smooth and consistent. The Niro offers partial one-pedal driving, but it won't bring you to a complete stop unless you hold the steering paddle. The steering is direct but doesn't translate much feedback from the road. When the Niro is pushed, the suspension keeps the car planted and composed. It's fun to drive this car quickly, though the eco-oriented tires provide only modest amounts of grip.

Comfort

8.5/10

How comfortable is the Niro EV? We like the Niro's ride quality. It smooths out bumps in the road without being overly soft or bouncy. The front seats are well shaped and firm, but they don't offer many adjustments. The dual-zone climate control works quickly and evenly, and the rear air vents are a welcome feature for passengers. The Niro's available ventilated front seats for cooling are a rare and appreciated feature for an electric vehicle at this price.

The Niro EV is very quiet with little wind, tire or road noise coming into the cabin. At low speeds, the car emits a futuristic whirring sound that's required to help alert pedestrians. It fades away above 20 mph.

Interior

8.5/10

How’s the interior? Kia nailed the Niro EV's interior, which is surprisingly very different from the standard Niro's. The EV's front console has plenty of extra storage space and adds an intuitive dial shifter to complement the rest of the easy-to-use cabin controls. The available 10.25-inch screen has a premium look to it.

As far as space goes, there's a generous amount up front. The rear offers plenty of legroom and headroom for its size — something we've knocked some competitors for not having. It's also easy to get in and out of thanks to the square door openings. The rear window is a bit small, which can hamper your view when backing up or trying to see what's behind you in traffic. Otherwise, the Niro EV is pretty easy to see out of.

Technology

8.5/10

How’s the tech? The Niro's infotainment system is functional and easy to use, and the EX Premium trim's 10.25-inch screen further improves the experience. There are EV-specific screens that show range, driving data and more, which is a welcome feature for eco-conscious drivers. Syncing a smartphone is easy, and the Niro quickly reconnects once you get back inside. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is standard. Our test Niro EV had three USB ports (one data and two charging ports) as well as a wireless charging pad.

The Niro (like its corporate sibling, the Hyundai Kona Electric) comes standard with a full suite of advanced driver aids. We like the smooth and easy operation of the adaptive cruise control, especially in traffic. But we found the lane keeping assist to be too aggressive, constantly fighting your hands to make minor corrections.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? Rear cargo space is good for its size because of the Niro's hatchback body. As EVs go, the Niro is only slightly behind the Kona and Leaf when it comes to total storage capacity. But it makes the most of it by being easy to load and having rear seats that fold flat easily.

Up front, you'll find a lot of places to store your small items inside the cabin. All four doors feature pockets and water bottle holders. The main cupholders are adjustable and can be folded away to provide another bin or room for larger water bottles. Finally, we've found that it's pretty easy to install child safety seats thanks to the Niro EV's roomy rear seat and easily accessible seat anchors.

Range and Efficiency

8.5/10

How are the range and efficiency? The EPA estimates the Niro EV will use 30 kWh of electricity for every 100 miles driven. That's about average for an EV in this price range. Total EPA-estimated range is 239 miles, which is also average. But in real-world driving, we've found this figure pretty conservative.

In Edmunds' testing, the Niro traveled 285 miles on a single charge and was more efficient, using 25.3 kWh for every 100 miles. This is the second-longest tested range behind the Hyundai Kona at 315 miles. Depending on your route, the weather and your driving style, you'll probably be able to outperform the EPA's estimates as well.

Value

8.5/10

Is the Niro EV a good value? You get a lot for your money relative to other EVs, plus the Niro still qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. The Niro comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, dual-zone climate control, automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist. The available ventilated front seats are nice too.

The Niro is solidly put together, but next to the Model 3, the Niro just looks and feels like less of a bargain. Still, there was nary a squeak or rattle from the car, especially important given how quiet the Niro EV is on the road.

The Niro comes with a 7.2-kW onboard charger. Charging times vary, but in general Kia estimates a full charge off a proper 240-volt wall unit at 7.2 kW (what most owners will have installed at home) takes nine hours and 35 minutes. It's estimated to take 59 hours to reach a full charge off a standard 120-volt outlet with the included cable (not recommended). Keep in mind that these times are going from an empty battery to full; most of the time you'll just be topping off. The Niro also has DC fast-charging capability.

Wildcard

8/10

This car is much more fun than you expect it to be and shines both in traffic and on a twisty road. It's small and nimble, which makes it easy to place into a corner or slide into a small gap in traffic. The steering doesn't offer much feedback to the driver, but it's quick and weighted well. With a set of summer tires, the Niro would be a mean little hot hatchback.

The styling is more conservative-looking than some rivals, but it's also less polarizing. We dig the design and blue accents inside and out, and the plastic cladding gives it a bit of an SUV vibe.

2021 Kia Niro EV trim level differences

The Kia Niro EV is a five-passenger electric vehicle. A 64-kWh battery and a 201-horsepower electric motor combine for 239 miles of range (EPA estimate) on a full charge. The Niro EV comes in two trim levels: the base EX and the EX Premium. Compare the 2021 Kia Niro EV trim levels in-depth.

Which Niro EV trim does Edmunds recommend?

The base EX trim comes with enough features that most drivers will want that we don't see a compelling need to upgrade. The not-insignificant price jump to the EX Premium gets you a sunroof, ventilated seats and other luxury items, but nothing extra in terms of power, range or performance.

2021 Kia Niro EV Insights

Trim:

Niro EV EX

Estimated Range Based on Age

edmunds TESTED

258 miles

EV batteries lose 1-2% of range per year. Est. range for this car is 258 miles.

Estimated range mapfrom

Charging

SAE Combo

Plug Type

9.5 hrs

240V Home Charging

EV batteries should be kept at 30-80% charged to extend battery life.

When can I use NACS/Tesla charging stations?

EV Battery Warranty

10 yrs or 100,000 miles

According to GeoTab’s data, if the observed degradation rates are maintained, the vast majority of batteries will outlast the usable life of the vehicle.

Estimated battery warranty remaining is 5 years or 30,000 miles for this car.

EV Tax Credits & Rebates

$100

Available Rebates. Restrictions apply.

Restrictions: Edmunds is partnering with Treehouse, an independent provider of home EV installation services. Edmunds visitors receive a $100 discount when they contract with Treehouse for their home charger installation. Discount excludes permit, hosted inspection, and load management devices. Valid for 30 days.
To learn more, visit https://treehouse.pro/edmundsdiscount/

See All EV incentives

Cost to Drive

$59/mo

Niro EV

$225/mo

SUV Avg.

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

Am I Ready for an EV?

EV ownership works best if you can charge at home (240V outlet)
Adding a home charging system is estimated to cost $1,616 in
Edmunds is partnering with Treehouse, an independent provider of home EV installation services. Learn more about the installation services partnership

Need to install a charger at home?

Get a free quote

See All EV Insights

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Year

Make

Model

See pricing history

Reliability

The 2021 Kia Niro EV has a 5 years / 60,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

1 recall found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 25V426000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: SC342
Number of vehicles affected:: 11327
Defect Description:: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Niro EV vehicles. The circuit board for the rearview camera may become damaged and cause the rearview camera image not to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:: A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC342.

Warranty

5 years / 60,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 10 years / 100,000 miles
EV battery Warranty: 10 years / 100,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles

Kia Niro EV Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.7

35 reviews

5(77%)

4(17%)

3(6%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

See all 35 reviews of the Kia Niro EV

Write a vehicle review

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2021 Niro EV Features & Specs

Trim:

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$39,090
EV Tax Credits & Rebates
Engine Type	Electric
EPA Electric Range	239 miles
Cost to Drive	$59/month
Total Charging Time (240V)	9.5 hours
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	18.5 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles
EV Battery Warranty	10 years / 100,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Niro EV models:

Blind-Spot Detection: Alerts you with visual and audio warnings when a vehicle in the adjacent lane is in your blind spot.
Smart Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and distance behind the car ahead and will bring the car to a stop briefly before relinquishing control.
Lane Follow Assist: Makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane

People who viewed this also viewed

Kia Niro
5.0 average Rating out of 2 reviews.
Starting at $27,390

See Kia Niro Inventory

Hyundai IONIQ 5
4.7 average Rating out of 9 reviews.
Starting at $35,000

See Hyundai IONIQ 5 Inventory

Chevrolet Equinox EV
4.4 average Rating out of 5 reviews.
Starting at $34,995

See Chevrolet Equinox EV Inventory

2021 Kia Niro EV Review

Price & Payment

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

For sale near Ashburn, VA

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Range and Efficiency

Value

Wildcard

2021 Kia Niro EV trim level differences

Which Niro EV trim does Edmunds recommend?

2021 Kia Niro EV Insights

Estimated Range Based on Age

Charging

EV Battery Warranty

EV Tax Credits & Rebates

Cost to Drive

Am I Ready for an EV?

Reliability

Recalls

Warranty

Kia Niro EV Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2021 Niro EV Features & Specs

Safety

People who viewed this also viewed