Quick Facts
- Original starting price: $40,265 (including $1,175 destination fee)
- Class: EV – Compact Crossover
- Competitors: Hyundai Kona Electric, Chevrolet Bolt EV, Nissan Leaf
- KBB.com Fair Purchase Price
Introduction
The 2021 Kia Niro EV is a well-equipped, all-electric compact crossover SUV. With a range of 239 miles, the Niro sits neatly in the upper third of the growing class occupied by the Hyundai Kona Electric, Chevrolet Bolt EV, and Nissan Leaf. Designed to meet EV buyers at the intersection of performance, efficiency, and convenience, the Niro EV offers a practical option that ranks high on style and reliable functionality.
Kia set a goal to meet buyers wherever they are on the road to electrification, using the Niro to move them along the path efficiently. Launched in 2019, the battery-powered Kia Niro EV joined the small, feature-packed SUV’s lineup. The 5-seater is a 1-stop shop for eco-friendly drives with hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and now electric options available in the same body style.
Kia CPO Warranty Program Highlights
- Comprehensive Platinum Warranty: 1 year/12,000 miles
- Limited Powertrain Warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles
- Roadside Assistance: 10 years/Unlimited Miles
Learn more about Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Kia
Key Competitors
KBB Review Highlights
With a long-range battery capable of 239 miles on a single charge, the 2021 Kia Niro EV has a modern crossover vibe. Holding its own in a class with the Chevrolet Bolt EV, the Nissan Leaf, and its corporate relative, the Hyundai Kona Electric, and the Niro EV is a cute, 2-row 5-seater with an eye on style and logical space configuration.
This model’s design is fresh, spacious, and modern, yet familiar, calling to mind the gas-powered crossovers in the same segment. With flexible, comfortable seating and soft-touch plastics, it does not scream, “I’m electric.” Instead, it subtly marks the brand’s pivot to elevated design and more streamlined functions. The car’s above-average height, black roof rails, and gently sloping body all point in the hatchback direction, but the Niro gets classified as a crossover SUV. Kia uses the second-row space well and packs it with features like wide-opening doors, easy-access LATCH anchors, and 60/40 folding rear seats.
With two trim models, the EX and EX Premium, the nicely equipped Niro EV has wired smartphone integration and a comprehensive safety suite, even in its base tier. Both trims are front-wheel-drive only and powered by an electric motor that delivers 201 horsepower and 291 lb.-ft of torque, getting juice from a Lithium-ion battery pack. The entry-level Niro EV has an 8-inch touchscreen, a 6-speaker audio system, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, heated outside mirrors, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The EX Premium uses a larger, 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless charging capabilities, additional speakers, and amped-up safety and convenience features, including a new navigation-based Smart Cruise Control and Highway Driving Assist.
Due to the weight of the battery pack and the low center of gravity, the 2021 Niro EV feels solid and stable while driving. The covered nose hints at its EV status, and the long-range battery is plenty to reduce the waves of range anxiety of the prior editions. Overall, the quiet, emission-free experience is nimble, athletic, and outright fun, offering drivers an elevated everyday experience in a neat, well-tuned package.
See Kelley Blue Book’s Expert Review of the 2021 Niro EV
If you’re ready to shop, see certified pre-owned 2021 Kia Niro EV models
