2021 Kia Niro EV Review
Price: $18,990
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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.
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Average price: $16,995
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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
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.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
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- 41,447 miles
- 239 mi range
- 249 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
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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- $16,319fair 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
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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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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Edmunds Tested: Electric Car Range and Consumption
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 ChargingEV 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/
Cost to Drive
$59/mo
Niro EV
vs
$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?
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 foundChecking 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
5(77%)
4(17%)
3(6%)
2(0%)
1(0%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Best EV for the Money
5 out of 5 starsCurtman60, 07/02/2019
2019 Kia Niro EV EX Premium 4dr SUV (electric DD)
Excellent range and loaded with safety features. I am getting 348 miles of range in the warm weather and just about 295 in the winter. Kia has really nailed it with the user interface and UVO system as it is very user friendly. There are only two things this car really needs and one is all wheel drive and the other is memory seat settings for the drivers seat. I have the EX Premium model … and it has the LED lights with Auto bright lights that are awesome. It also has stop and go cruise control that will steer for me when it can read the lines in the road.
Great car with excellent features
5 out of 5 starsJay in Texas, 10/31/2019
2019 Kia Niro EV EX Premium 4dr SUV (electric DD)
I really like driving this car with it's excellent acceleration and features. My favorite feature is the adaptive cruise control. Set the maximum speed you want and it tracks the car ahead if it is traveling at a lower speed. Another great feature that isn't often mentioned is the Auto Hold. Bring the car to a stop at a light and it stays in place without holding the brake pedal. … Just touch the accelerator to go when the traffic starts moving. The regenerative braking is adjustable but there is an Auto Regen setting that works great to slow the car when the traffic ahead slows. On the Premium model, the cooled seats are another feature we have really enjoyed during the summer months. I also like the option of the real time tire pressure display. With normal driving, charging has only been needed about once a week on a Level 2 charger. While the car is not self driving, it comes very close on roads with well marked lanes. It takes care of all the normal driving and you just need to take over for any unusual circumstances. It would be nice to have an automated tailgate but it is easy to operate the manual gate with one hand. Overall, the Niro EV is a car that does a lot for the driver and quickly spoils you with the advantages of electric driving.
Astonishingly cheap if you buy at the right time
5 out of 5 starsDrake, 11/16/2020
2020 Kia Niro EV EX 4dr SUV (electric DD)
After incentives and hard negotiating (following several hours of research, incl calling dealers in 3 states), I leased a 2020 EX for $700 down and $148.30/month. This is after the $5,000 EV incentive from NJ (Plus NJ has no sales tax on EVs, which is normally part of the down payment) and lease-end incentives from Kia. Unlike Tesla, the $7,500 federal tax incentive is still baked into … the lease for Kia. You have to be nuts not to go EV in NJ with all the incentives, and this and the Kona (not quite as practical as the Niro) are the only real choices for value, performance and style.
Great EV solution for the real world
5 out of 5 starsolliedawg, 06/25/2019
2019 Kia Niro EV EX Premium 4dr SUV (electric DD)
We drove the Nissan Leaf Plus (dubbed "fuddy-duddy" with a chintzy interior by the spouse, although we liked the size and driving dynamics), the Chevy Bolt Premier (fun to drive, but the styrofoam dashboard and the ass-killing seats...what was GM thinking), the i3 (fun and completely impractical and overpriced)...you get the picture. The Kia Niro EV in the EX Premium trim hits all the … right notes: comfortable seats, logical layout, tons of safety features, excellent range for everyday driving (ignore the MPG on this review -- n/a to this car), reasonable storage space, and look at that warranty. Don't buy any EV, just lease it. We're extremely pleased with our choice.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 Kia Niro EV, so we've included reviews for other years of the Niro EV since its last redesign.
2021 Niro EV Features & Specs
EX
| 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 |
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
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