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Most compact electric SUV lovers find it hard to choose between the Kia Niro and the Toyota bZ4X, and we understand them. Kia offers the Niro in standard hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and EV models. And the automaker has outdone itself with the 2023 Niro’s massive redesign.

Now, the unrated gem in Kia’s catalog is more affordable, practical, and no-nonsense, to the delight of fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly car lovers. A side-by-side comparison between the 2023 Kia Niro and the 2023 Toyota bZ4X shows that Kia might actually have a few advantages.

So, how does the 2023 Kia Niro EV stack against the 2023 Toyota bZ4X? Let’s dive in.

Pictured is the 2023 Kia Niro, one of the most fuel efficient car of 2022
2023 Kia Niro | Kia

The 2023 Kira Niro EV is more affordable than the 2023 Toyota bZ4X

The 2023 Niro EV has a more affordable starting price than the 2023 Toyota bZ4X. According to Kia’s website, the all-new 2023 Niro EV is available in two trims. The “Wind,” its base trim’s MSRP starts at $39,450. Meanwhile, the “Wave” trim is your other option, it starts at $44,450.

Conversely, as Edmunds reports, the all-new 2023 Toyota bZ4X’s MSRP ranges between $42,000 and $48,780. Toyota offers the 2023 bZ4X in four trim levels: the XLE, the XLE AWD, the Limited , and the Limited AWD with MSRPs of $42,000, $44,080, $46,700, and $48,780 respectively.

At a lower price tag than the bZ4X’s, the Niro EV offers owners unparalleled utility, convenience, and a delightful driving experience. 

The 2023 Niro EV has a longer range than the 2023 bZ4X

The environmentally friendly all-new Kia Niro EV has a decent range of 253 miles and quicker charging. Kia boasts that the 2023 Niro can replenish 10-80% of its charge in less than 45 minutes. 

Electrek details that both the Wind and Wave Niro EVs come standard with a 64.8 kWh battery powering an all-electric powertrain that makes 201 hp and has a 0-60 mph of 7.1 seconds.

But the Wave trim features multiple upgrades, including heated mirrors, advanced headlights, a power sunroof, and a Vehicle-to-load inverter that enables the owners to power off devices from the car’s battery. 

Toyota boasts that the 2023 bZ4X’s battery electric structure provides a solid foundation for enhanced driving performance, comfort, and stability. But its range still trails the Niro.

The 2023 bZ4X’s front-wheel drive versions are powered by a 71.4 kWh battery and have a range of between 242 and 252 miles. The 2023 bZ4X’s all-wheel drive versions are powered by a 72.8 kWh battery and have a range of between 222 and 228 miles.

The 2023 Niro EV beats the 2023 bZ4X in cargo space

Both electric vehicles boast plenty of cargo space. But the Niro’s EV’s 63.7 cu. ft. cargo volume after folding the second row dwarfs the 2023 bZ4X’s 56.1 cu. ft. cargo capacity.

The all-new Niro EV also comes standard with a power liftgate. Behind its rear seat, the 2023 Niro EV has 22.28 cu. ft of cargo room, making it one of the few subcompact electric SUVs with decent cargo space. 

The 2023 Niro EV has a better warranty than the 2023 bZ4X

Kia offers the family-friendly SUV a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty program comprising the following: a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty, a 5-year/100,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty, and a 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan. The 2023 Niro EV’s warranty coverage is far much fairer than the bZ4X’s 3-year/36,000 miles coverage.

Discernibly, the 2023 Niro EV is giving Toyota’s 2023 bZ4X a run for its money.  Considering the EV’s affordability, more extended range, bigger cargo space, and generous warranty coverage, it is a better bet than the bZ4X. 

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