The 2022 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.
The 2022 Kia Niro EV is the all-electric version of the gasoline-powered Niro hybrid, and there is also a plug-in hybrid Niro as well (both are reviewed separately). A 64-kWh battery pack powers a front-mounted motor and provides an EPA-estimated range of 239 miles. However, the Niro EV went 285 miles on a single charge in Edmunds' real-world testing, which is one of the longest distances we've gotten from a reasonably priced EV.
Last year's Kia Niro EV came loaded with a long list of standard features, and thanks to updates for the 2022 model year, it comes with even more. Last year's optional 10.25-inch center touchscreen is now standard, so effectively you get the big touchscreen on every Niro EV now. It even comes bundled with a premium sound system and a navigation system. You're getting an impressively well-equipped EV even if you pick the base EX trim.
Overall we think highly of the Niro EV. Check out our test team's Expert Rating to learn more about how we rate its comfort, utility, efficiency and more.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Great
8.3
out of 10
We drove the 2022 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. 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.
It's 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.
2022 Kia Niro EV trim level differences
The 2022 Kia Niro EV is available in EX and EX Premium trims. The electric vehicle is powered by a 64-kWh battery pack and has an EPA-estimated driving range of 239 miles. The front-mounted motor is rated at 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. Feature highlights include:
Which Niro EV trim does Edmunds recommend?
The Kia Niro EV is available in two trim levels. The base EX trim comes with more than enough features to please the majority of buyers, and it's the trim we recommend.
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 7 years or 58,000 miles for this car.
EV Tax Credits & Rebates
$4,300
Available Rebates. Restrictions apply.
Restrictions:
Under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers taxpayers a Used Clean Vehicle Tax Credit equal to 30% of the sale price up to a maximum credit of $4,000 for the purchase of a used plug-in electric or hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. Beginning January 1, 2024, Clean Vehicle Tax Credits may be initiated and approved at the point of sale at participating dealerships registered with the IRS. Dealers will be responsible for submitting Clean Vehicle Tax Credit information to the IRS. Buyers are advised to obtain a copy of an IRS "time of sale" report, confirming it was submitted successfully by the dealer. Not every version of the vehicle models will necessarily qualify. Please check with the dealer/seller to determine the eligibility of your specific vehicle.
For the vehicle to qualify:
Price cannot exceed $25,000.
Need to verify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Must be at least two model years older than the current calendar year in which the vehicle was purchased.
Must be sold through a dealership, private sales not permitted.
Not have already been transferred after August 16, 2022, to a qualified buyer.
For individuals to qualify:
Must meet income eligibility, depending on modified adjusted gross income (AGI) and tax filing status.
Must not be the first owner of the qualifying vehicle.
Has not been allowed a credit under this section for any sale during the 3-year period ending on the date of the sale of such vehicle.
Purchased for personal use, not a business, corporation or for resale.
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.
The 2022 Kia Niro EV has a 5 years / 60,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
2 recalls 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.
Recall Number:
24V358000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
SC314
Manufactured from:
2021-07-21 to 2021-12-02
Number of vehicles affected:
2209
Defect Description:
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2022 Niro EV vehicles. The high voltage battery safety plug may overheat and melt, which can cause a loss of drive power or fire.
Defect Consequence:
A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash, and a fire increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:
Owners are advised not to charge their vehicle in a garage or any other covered structure until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will replace the safety plug, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 19, 2024. Kia's number for this recall is SC314.
The Niro EV is nimble, comfortable, practical, attractive, and a blast to drive. The screen doesn't stick up in front of the windshield as seems to be popular with many new cars. Instead, it is un-obtrusive and complimented by several convenient manual controls for things like volume and climate control. The leather-like upgraded seats are very comfortable and seem quite durable. The … interior space is great for how compact, overall, the car is. It feels like it has the form factor of a European family wagon/hatchback. Easy to park, responsive to drive, but with enough room for most of life's tasks. I couldn't recommend the car more highly. Oh, and don't forget, that Kia still offers a10 year/100,000-mile warranty even though their build quality has gone up immensely since the company was founded. It's hard for me to think of a better vehicle for the price.
no more gas bills!
5 out of 5 stars
Sean lavelle, 02/25/2022
2022 Kia Niro EV EX Premium 4dr SUV (electric DD)
We traded a chevy bolt ev on the Niro ev. Niro is our 3rd ev, nissan leaf being the 1st. We liked the bolt's sportiness but the front seats were uncomfortable, and the recalls were becoming annoying. We drove the mach-e, but didn't wait for a special order or want to go though the recall teething problems again. No rebates on the tesla. Checked out the Niro when a shipment came in, … and bought it the same day. We already had a level 2 charger at home from the Bolt ev. we've owned it 3 months and still happy!
Pay more for less
2 out of 5 stars
Ashburn Pops, 11/25/2021
2022 Kia Niro EV EX Premium 4dr SUV (electric DD)
Traded in our 2019 Kia Niro Hybrid for the 2022 premium. Kia has removed the memory seats in the new model and side warning lights that were on the previous model. Front collision/parking warning lights are included but side warnings (like navigating in a tight garage) can be added after market for about $600. No explanation from the dealer why these amenities were removed other than "it … was a corporate decision." Power trunk latch has still never been offered.
UPDATE: We've had this car for a little over a year. That's when we found out the Kia Connect "Ultimate" package that came with the car has been disconnected. No more remote start, no more remote locking, but if you're willing to pay $150 - 200 a year you can keep the services you bought with the car. After paying $40,000+ we thought Kia had enough of our money but they want an annuity after the sale.
Range problems with the Kia Niro 2022
2 out of 5 stars
Insancody, 01/25/2022
2022 Kia Niro EV EX 4dr SUV (electric DD)
When I bought the car last month and drove it home it had 277 miles of range on it. That was awesome, but after a week it dropped to 239 miles of range on a full charge in eco mode which to me still wasn't too bad, because that is what Kia Advertised in the first place. I just got to 3k miles and the range had dropped to 222 on a full charge. So in less than a months time my rang has … dropped 55 miles!!!! I think the update made it worse? I am taking it back to Kia so they can figure it out. It isn't cold where I live so that isn't a factor. I drive during the day so that isn't a factor. I use regenerative braking, keep air in my tires, everything I need to do to get the most range out of my car but I can. It's so frustrating really.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2022 Kia Niro EV, so we've included reviews for other years of the Niro EV since its last redesign.
Best Electric Cars Right Now | Ranking the Tesla Model Y, Porsche Taycan, Rivian R1T — More
Electric cars, or EVs, are all the rage these days. And with more and more automakers debuting new electric cars seemingly each week, it's safe to say that the electric revolution is beginning. But which EV is best? In this video, Ryan ZumMallen from Edmunds runs down our list of the very best electric vehicles and what makes each one great. From electric SUVs, like the VW… ID.4 and the Ford Mustang Mach E to electric sedans like Mercedes EQS to the Rivian R1T electric truck. There's also a few Tesla models throughout this list. This is our video for the Best Electric Cars Right Now.
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