2023 Kia Niro EV: Kia’s Most Affordable EV
Lately, we have had quite a bit of wheel time in new products from the South Korean Kia brand. From their big, 3-row family hauler in the 2023 Telluride, to their smaller Sportage crossover that just received a total remodel, and most everything in between. We have even sampled their second-quickest vehicle in their first dedicated EV, the EV6 GT-Line earlier this summer. With each Kia that has come into the garage, we have found a lot to like and have considered the brand strongly as a replacement for our two aging vehicles.
NEED TO KNOW
- The Niro EV is Kia’s most affordable electric vehicle and offers the longest range in its price tier.
- FWD-only configuration is a meaningful limitation for buyers who need AWD capability.
- Despite a short test drive, the writer found enough to recommend it as a solid entry-level EV.
- It competes favorably against similarly priced rivals while carrying Kia’s strong warranty.
The build quality, technology, and pricing really make the entire lineup appealing to most in middle-class America and this 2023 Kia Niro EV makes a compelling first electric vehicle for many buyers. Since this is built upon the same platform as the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, this Niro EV borrows heavily from its internal combustion brethren in design. This is a more conventional EV than the other option in Kia’s lineup: the spaceship-looking EV6.
Under the hood, Kia gives you just as much “frunk” storage as you would find in their dedicated EV with a small plastic storage pod big enough for the charge cord and not much more. Underneath that plastic storage pod are the bits that make this EV move. No, it is not an engine, but a single electric motor making 201 horsepower and good for an estimated 253 miles of all-electric range. No AWD in this EV, for that you would have to stop up to the EV6, but this FWD EV does the best it can with the Kumho Solus tires.
Underneath the vehicle, Kia has buried the 64.8kWh battery capable of 100 kWh DC fast charging that can add up to 100 miles of range in 30 minutes, according to the manufacturer.
This EV was loaned to us for a quick afternoon drive courtesy of our friends at Peltier Kia here in Tyler, TX. If you are in the East Texas area and are in the market for a new vehicle, check out their inventory here: https://www.peltierkiatyler.com
2023 Kia Niro EV Specs:
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2023 Kia Niro EV
PROS
- 253 miles of EPA-rated range makes it one of the most practical affordable EVs available
- 201 hp and front-wheel drive deliver smooth, confident everyday performance
- Strong technology package for the price, including modern infotainment and driver assistance features
- Compelling entry point into the Kia EV lineup at an accessible price
CONS
- Front-wheel drive only — no AWD option for buyers in regions with harsh winters
- Limited seat time (a quick afternoon drive) means impressions are preliminary rather than fully formed