2023 Kia Niro EV Wave: The Brand’s Compact EV Wears A New Design

Highlight: The hatchback-like Niro EV has a driving range that exceeds 250 miles.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $47,765 (Base Wind Model: $40,875)

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: airbags; a tire mobility kit and monitoring system; ABS; an electronic stability control system; a hill-start assist control system; an electronic parking brake; low anchors and tethers for children; a blind spot collision warning system; rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist; a lane keeping assist system; a lane following assist system; a lane departure warning system; a driver attention warning system; a high beam assist system; an intelligent speed limit assist system; a navigation-based smart cruise control system; a rear view camera; and a highway driving assist system

Standard Equipment (Wave): 16-inch alloy wheels; a 10.25-inch touchscreen display system; a 10.25-inch color TFT supervision cluster display; privacy glass; a power tailgate; solar control and tinted windows; rain-sensing wipers; a single muffler exhaust system; a heated windshield; body-color outside door handles; heated folding outside mirrors; LED daytime running lights; a rear spoiler with an LED stop lamp; driver and front seat back pockets; combination began leather and cloth seats; 60/40 split-folding rear seats; a 10-way adjustable driver seat with 2-way lunar support; a 6-way manual adjustable passenger seat; a vegan leather-wrapped steering wheel; heated front seats (3-levels); a dual climate air conditioning system; push button start; a one speed transmission; front door pockets; mood lighting; and a tilt and telescoping steering column

Standard Equipment (Wind): a power sunroof with sunshade and LED interior lighting; LED positioning and fog lamps; heated power folding and adjustable out mirrors; laminated front windows; satin chrome accent outside door handles; a chrome coated skid plate; gloss black detailing; a electrochromic day and night rear-view mirror; a sun-visor with a vanity mirror; aluminum pedals; vegan only perforated leather seats; a 10-way power adjustable passenger seat with 2-way lumbar support; remote smart park assist; ventilated front seats; an integrated memory system; an external amp (subwoofer); a vehicle-to-load inverter; and a power passenger window

Options: heat pump; heated rear seats; and a light gray interior color package

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 4-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system with AM/FM/HD radio

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Apple/Android Connectivity: Standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles

Electric Battery Warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles

Horsepower: 204-hp

Towing: 1,653 lbs

Standard Fuel Mileage:

113e-city/113e-hwy

What’s New: For 2023, Kia has introduced the second generation of its diverse Niro family, which again includes the Niro EV, an all-electric model. As with its hybrid and plug-in-hybrid counterparts, the Niro EV receives a new look inside and out.

Why:

A 253-mile driving range

A more stylish and youthful design

One of the best warranties in the industry

An-all electric vehicle

Qualifies for a $7,500 EV lease to reduce payment

A peppy engine, offering significant more power than the hybrid model

Side profile looks like a BMW’s i3 with the optional black c-pillar trim

A modern interior layout

Roomier than outgoing model

Charging outlets attached to the front seats

A larger and easy-to-use infotainment screen

A radar activated cruise control system

A remote park smart assist system

A power lift gate

A battery heater

A high-quality audio system

Heated and ventilated front seats available

Heated rear seats available

Vegan leather trim

A high level of safety driving aids

Brake hold feature

A heads up display system

Qualifies for $7,500 lease reduction incentive on EV

One of the best warranties in the segment

Also a plug-in and a hybrid are available

But:

Controversial fascia

No oversized panoramic sunroof

No all-wheel drive configuration

Verdict: The second-generation Niro is all-new, inside and out. The compact crossover has evolved from being a station wagon to more of a sporty looking hatchback, especially for those who opt for the BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle). Earlier this year, we spent time behind the wheel of the Niro hybrid. Like the Niro hybrid we reviewed, the BEV model was also roomy, offered a high-level of content and safety driving aids. However, it outshined the hybrid, offering more horsepower and the ability to charge smaller electric items such as an electric bike or and electric frying pan.

In fact, the Niro BEV, which is all-electric, pumps out a respectable 204-horsepower. Moreover, the Niro EV had a driving range of 253 miles, according to fueleconomy.gov, making it very competitive. In fact, its range outstrips some of the premium luxury brands. With the all-new Niro EV, one will rarely have to worry about range anxiety.

Furthermore, this year’s model is available in two trims: the Wind and the Wave. We reviewed the higher end Wave trim which included such features as a power sunroof, an upgraded Harmon audio system, a high driving assist system and a heated steering wheel.

Lastly, as of January, the Niro EV now qualifies for a $7,500 credit for those who lease the vehicle. Thus, this helps lower the price point of the vehicle, making it competitive. So, for those who are in the market for an affordable EV, the Niro would be high on our shopping list.

Competition: Chevrolet Bolt and Nissan Leaf