Kia has been working to improve its reputation as well as the performance of all of its vehicles. Now that it’s becoming more reliable on the road, Kia is seeing success with some of its lineup, including vehicles like the Kia Niro. 

MotorTrend reports that the Niro will be offering more with its EV model, but the price will remain the same as before. What’s new with this model and how well does it perform? Let’s see what MotorTrend thinks about the EV version of the Niro.

What’s new for the 2021 Kia Niro EV?

There are some sweet new changes with this model of the Kia Niro EV, but don’t expect them to include any performance improvements or design elements with either the interior or exterior of the crossover SUV. In fact, as MotorTrend reports, it looks and drives just like the 2020 model. So, what’s the difference between the two versions?

This year’s model kept things to a minimum. What you get are more standard features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now come standard using the wireless version instead of the wired connection it had in the previous model. Both offer specific benefits to its own respective group of users. You also get a standard rear-occupant alert, and remote start function so that you can pre-heat or pre-cool the vehicle before driving. 

The list goes on, though. The Kia Niro EV also offers the new DriveWise driver’s assistance package. This will gain you a leading vehicle departure alert, which will detect the movements of the car in front of you. It also offers navigation-based adaptive cruise control, and the Level 2 driving assist. 

How much does the Kia Niro EV cost, and what features do you get?

If you’re looking at the base model, the Kia Niro EX, you can expect to pay $39,000 for the all-electric version, according to U.S. News. The EX version is only one of two Niro models that offer the all-electric powertrain. This particular model gets you heated front seats, cloth upholstery, wireless device charging, electronic stability control, integrated turn signal mirrors, and daytime running lights. 

The EX Premium comes in at $44,600 and is the other Niro model offering not just an all-electric version, but also a plug-in hybrid powertrain. With this model, you can expect heated and ventilated front seating, rear parking sensors, synthetic leather upholstery, and a heated steering wheel. 

How well does the Kia Niro EV perform?

The Kia Niro EV is powered by an electric motor that can produce 201 hp and 291 lb-ft of torque. This model, like other EVs, gives power to the accelerator pedal instantly, while other non-EV versions build it up and then release it. 

When it comes to driving range, the Kia Niro EV has one of the best in the class with an estimated 239 miles. The biggest drawback, however, is the charging time. For a Level 2 charging system, which is often used at home, it can take around 10 hours to fully charge the vehicle. If you can get to a Level 3 charger, that time drops to an hour or so.

MotorTrend also remarked that the Kia Niro EV handled pretty well for an electric vehicle. The same can be said for its direct, responsive steering. It just made for an all-around fun drive, especially when you compare it to the Niros with the hybrid powertrains. 

All in all, the Kia Niro EV is offering more this year, even though it’s not improving its driving dynamics or its overall performance. What it is doing is giving you more features standard, which will help tremendously with how much you end up spending on your EV.