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Some years, automakers refresh their models with minor updates, while others introduce complete redesigns. Well, for 2023, Kia is introducing a massively redesigned Niro, with substantial changes to its electric vehicle (EV), hybrid (HEV), and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models. How do these changes help the 2023 Kia Niro EV stack up against close competitors like the 2023 Chevy Bolt EUV? Here are four reasons why the 2023 Niro is a better pick than Chevy’s electric utility vehicle.

A white 2023 Kia Niro EV parked on a gravel/asphalt pavement near a lamppost
2023 Kia Niro EV | Kia America

The 2023 Kia Niro EV offers slightly superior horsepower

You’ll find that the Kia Niro EV offers greater horsepower than the Chevy Bolt EUV. With a single motor and a 64.8 kWh battery pack, this FWD model can generate 201 hp, more than the 139-hp HEV and 180-hp PHEV models.

It also generates one more hp than the 200-hp 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which is just one reason to opt for the new Kia Niro EV. This redesigned Niro EV also can hit 60 mph in 7.1 seconds and gets a respectable fuel economy of 113 MPGe.

Plus, in addition to being slightly more powerful than the Bolt EUV, the Niro EV has undergone an exterior redesign that makes it far more attractive than its predecessor. Two-tone body panels and distinctive lighting elements contribute to a fresher look than the 2022 version. And with more power at your fingertips, the 2023 Kia Niro EV will certainly help you make an impression in the city or on the highway.

Kia’s unbeatable warranty coverage

You won’t find complimentary maintenance as part of the Niro’s standard warranty coverage. But you will find yourself with one of the best warranties available. Kia offers limited coverage for five years or 60,000 miles (whichever comes first) and powertrain coverage for ten years /100,000 miles.

Compare this to the coverage Chevrolet offers Bolt EUV owners. While one complimentary maintenance visit is included, the limited warranty and powertrain warranty coverage is far less. You only get three years / 36,000 miles of limited warranty coverage and five years / 60,000 miles of powertrain coverage, as per Edmunds.

Chevrolet’s warranty coverage is in line with what most automakers offer. But for the best warranty coverage, you’re better served with a Kia. 

Greater cargo capacity

The Niro EV also sports quite a bit of space. It offers 41.5 inches of legroom in the front and 36.9 inches in the rear. And you’ll have 22.8 cubic feet of space behind the back row and 63.7 cubic feet with that row folded down.

While you’ll have a little more legroom in the front of the Bolt EUV, there’s no comparison when it comes to cargo space. Behind the back row of the Bolt EUV, there’s just 16.6 cubic feet of space and only 57.0 cubic feet with the back row folded down. 

Other competitors like the 2023 Nissan Leaf trail even further behind in legroom and cargo space. So if you envision using your new EV to take road trips or haul outdoor gear, the Niro EV has the space you need.

The 2023 Kia Niro EV has a longer range than the Chevy Bolt EUV

The 2023 Niro EV also sports a longer driving range than its predecessor. The 2022 version could only take you 239 miles on a single charge, while the 2023 model ups that to 253. While it’s still outpaced by some notable names, like the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus, its range is certainly admirable for a vehicle in this segment.

Its 253 miles of range is also slightly more than that of the Chevy Bolt EUV, which offers just 247 miles. It also outpaces other competitors like the Nissan Leaf. And while its range may not be enough to quell your range anxiety, it can charge to 80% capacity in about 45 minutes.

Between the growing network of public charging stations and a home system, the Niro EV should make an excellent daily driver for most people.

With a starting MSRP of $39,450, it may not fit everyone’s budget. And it is about $12,000 more than a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV. But between its superior power, warranty coverage, space, and range, not to mention a bevy of first-rate tech features, it’s worth the extra cost.

RELATED: 2023 Kia Niro: A Close Look at What We Know so Far

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