2019 Kia Electric Cars A Complete Guide to Models and Features

The 2019 Kia electric car lineup delivers impressive range, cutting-edge tech, and bold styling, making it a top contender in the EV market. With models like the Niro EV and Soul EV offering up to 239 miles of range, advanced driver aids, and fast-charging capability, Kia proves electric driving can be practical and exciting. This guide breaks down every feature, trim, and innovation to help buyers choose their perfect 2019 Kia EV.

Key Takeaways

• 2019 Kia Niro EV: Offers 239-mile range, ideal for long commutes.
• Soul EV upgraded: Now with 243-mile range and modern tech features.
• Fast-charging capability: Both models charge to 80% in under an hour.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive MSRP with strong warranty coverage included.
• Advanced safety tech: Standard driver aids like AEB and lane-keeping assist.
• Spacious interiors: Maximize cargo and passenger comfort without sacrificing efficiency.

Why 2019 Was a Turning Point for Kia’s Electric Car Lineup

Let’s be honest—when you think of electric cars, Kia probably isn’t the first brand that pops into your head. Tesla? Sure. Nissan? Definitely. But Kia? Maybe not. Yet, 2019 was a quiet revolution for the South Korean automaker. It was the year Kia stepped up its game in the electric vehicle (EV) market, offering real competition with practical, stylish, and surprisingly well-equipped 2019 Kia electric cars.

I remember test driving the 2019 Kia Niro EV for the first time. I was skeptical—could a mainstream brand deliver a compelling EV without breaking the bank? Spoiler: it could. And it did. With improved range, modern tech, and a price tag that didn’t make me gasp, Kia proved it was serious about electrification. Whether you were a first-time EV buyer or a seasoned hybrid driver looking to go full electric, 2019 Kia models offered something refreshing: value without compromise.

Kia’s Electric Vision in 2019: More Than Just a Trend

By 2019, Kia had already dipped its toes into electrification with the Soul EV and Niro Plug-In Hybrid. But this year marked a shift—from experimentation to execution. Kia wasn’t just adding electric options; it was building a strategy around sustainable mobility. The company announced its “Plan S” initiative, aiming for 11 new EVs by 2025. The 2019 models weren’t just vehicles—they were stepping stones toward a greener future.

The Niro EV: Kia’s First True Mainstream Electric Crossover

The star of Kia’s 2019 electric lineup was the Niro EV. It wasn’t just a repurposed hybrid with a bigger battery—it was a dedicated electric vehicle built to compete with the Chevrolet Bolt, Nissan Leaf Plus, and Hyundai Kona Electric. And it did so with a blend of practicality and personality.

What made the Niro EV stand out? First, the range. With an EPA-estimated 239 miles on a full charge, it offered more than enough juice for daily commutes and weekend trips. I once drove mine from Portland to Bend (about 160 miles round trip), charged at a public station halfway, and still had 30% left when I got home. That’s peace of mind.

• Real-world range: Most owners reported 210–225 miles in mixed driving—slightly below EPA but still competitive.
• Fast charging: DC fast charging (50 kW) gave 80% charge in about 75 minutes. Not Tesla-level speed, but good for road trips.
• Regen braking: One-pedal driving mode made city traffic less tiring. A simple flick of the paddle shifter adjusted strength.

The Niro EV also came in two trims: EX and EX Premium. The base EX had heated seats, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 7-inch touchscreen. The Premium added ventilated seats, a premium Harman Kardon audio system, and a wireless phone charger. For under $39,000 (before incentives), it felt like a steal.

The Soul EV: A Quirky, Compact City Cruiser

If the Niro was the practical family choice, the Soul EV was the fun, funky city car. It kept the boxy, playful design of the gas-powered Soul but swapped the engine for a 64 kWh battery and a 201-horsepower electric motor.

Range? A solid 243 miles—yes, even better than the Niro EV! That was a big win for urban drivers who didn’t need SUV space but wanted range. I used mine for a week in Seattle, driving through hills, traffic, and rain. The Soul EV handled it all with surprising confidence.

• Charging: 7.2 kW onboard charger meant 9–10 hours on a Level 2 home charger. Perfect for overnight.
• Interior: Roomy for its size, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen (on higher trims), ambient lighting, and a “mood lamp” that pulsed with music.
• Driving experience: Zippy acceleration (0–60 mph in 7.5 seconds) and tight turning radius made it ideal for city parking.

But it wasn’t perfect. The Soul EV’s infotainment system was a bit laggy, and rear visibility was limited due to thick C-pillars. Still, for $33,950 (before incentives), it was hard to beat for urban dwellers.

Plug-In Hybrids: The Bridge to Full Electrification

Not ready to go fully electric? Kia offered two excellent plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in 2019: the Niro PHEV and the Optima PHEV. These weren’t just “electric when convenient”—they were designed to maximize electric-only driving.

The Niro PHEV had a 26-mile all-electric range, perfect for short commutes. Once the battery ran out, the gas engine kicked in seamlessly. I drove mine for a month with a 15-mile daily commute—ran it purely on electricity and saved a ton on gas.

• Total range: 560 miles (combined electric and gas).
• MPG: 46 mpg when using gas after battery depletion.
• Charging: 2.5 hours on a Level 2 charger (3.3 kW).

The Optima PHEV was the sedan option—more luxurious, with a 29-mile electric range and a smoother ride. It had leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a quieter cabin than the Niro. Ideal for professionals who wanted efficiency without sacrificing comfort.

Tip: If you have a short commute (under 25 miles), a PHEV can feel almost like a full EV. Just remember to charge regularly—otherwise, you’re just driving a heavier hybrid.

Technology and Features: What Made 2019 Kia EVs Stand Out

Kia didn’t just throw batteries into existing models. In 2019, they packed their EVs with tech that rivaled premium brands—without the premium price.

Infotainment and Connectivity

All 2019 Kia electric cars came standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. That meant seamless smartphone integration—no more fumbling with Bluetooth or outdated nav systems. The 7-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreens were bright, responsive, and easy to read in sunlight.

The UVO Link app (Kia’s connected car platform) let you remotely start the car, check charging status, and even precondition the cabin. I used it on cold mornings to warm up the car while still in bed. Total game-changer.

• Remote charging start/stop—handy when you forget to plug in.
• Charging station locator—integrated into navigation, with real-time availability (where available).
• Voice commands—worked well for calls, music, and climate control.

One gripe? The voice assistant wasn’t as smart as Google Assistant or Siri. But it got the job done.

Safety Tech: Kia’s Drive Wise Suite

Kia’s Drive Wise suite was standard on most 2019 EVs. It included:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)—braked automatically if a pedestrian or car was detected.
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)—gentle steering nudges to keep you in lane.
• Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW)—alerts when changing lanes.
• Smart Cruise Control (SCC)—maintained speed and distance from the car ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.

I tested the SCC on a 3-hour drive to the coast. It handled traffic like a pro—slowing down, speeding up, and even stopping smoothly. Not quite Tesla Autopilot, but impressive for a $35K car.

Pro tip: Use SCC on long drives to reduce fatigue. Just keep your hands on the wheel—it’s not self-driving!

Comfort and Convenience

Kia didn’t skimp on creature comforts. The Niro EV and Soul EV offered:

• Heated and ventilated front seats (EX Premium trim)—great for hot summers and cold winters.
• Power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support—saved my back on long drives.
• Dual-zone automatic climate control—kept everyone happy.
• Sunroof (optional)—let in natural light and fresh air.

The Soul EV’s “mood lamp” was a fun touch—it synced with music and could pulse to the beat. Not essential, but it made my evening drives feel like a mini concert.

Charging and Range: What You Need to Know

One of the biggest concerns for new EV buyers? Charging. Let’s break down how 2019 Kia electric cars handled it.

Home Charging: The Daily Driver’s Best Friend

Most 2019 Kia EVs came with a Level 1 charger (120V) in the trunk. But seriously—don’t rely on it. Charging a Niro EV from 0 to 100% on a Level 1 took 50+ hours. That’s not practical.

Instead, install a Level 2 charger (240V) at home. It cut charging time to 9–10 hours for the Niro EV and Soul EV, and 2.5 hours for the PHEVs. Cost? Around $500–$1,000 for equipment and installation. Many states offered rebates—check your local utility company.

Tip: Use a timer to charge overnight. Electricity is cheaper, and the car will be ready by morning.

Public Charging: On-the-Go Options

For road trips, DC fast charging was key. The Niro EV and Soul EV supported 50 kW charging, adding 60–70 miles of range in 30 minutes. Not as fast as Tesla’s 150+ kW, but enough for a coffee break.

• Charging networks: Kia partnered with ChargePoint and EVgo. UVO Link showed nearby stations.
• Cost: $0.25–$0.45 per kWh. A full charge cost about $15–$20.
• Compatibility: CCS (Combined Charging System) port—standard in North America.

I used ChargePoint on a trip to Bend. Found a station at a grocery store, charged while I shopped, and was back on the road in 45 minutes. Easy.

Range Anxiety: Real or Myth?

With 239–243 miles of range, the Niro EV and Soul EV were well above the average U.S. daily drive (37 miles). Even with cold weather reducing range by 15–20%, most owners didn’t face “range anxiety.”

But here’s a tip: precondition the battery before driving in cold weather. Plug in while the car is still warm—it keeps the battery at an optimal temperature, improving range and charging speed.

Cost and Incentives: Is a 2019 Kia EV Worth It?

Let’s talk money. The 2019 Kia electric cars were priced to compete.

Upfront Cost and Trim Levels

Here’s a quick breakdown of MSRPs (before incentives):

Model	Trim	MSRP	All-Electric Range	Key Features
Kia Niro EV	EX	$38,500	239 miles	Heated seats, Apple CarPlay, 7″ screen
Kia Niro EV	EX Premium	$44,000	239 miles	Ventilated seats, Harman Kardon, sunroof
Kia Soul EV	Base	$33,950	243 miles	10.25″ screen, mood lamp, Android Auto
Kia Soul EV	Premium	$38,950	243 miles	Heated steering wheel, wireless charger
Kia Niro PHEV	EX	$28,500	26 miles (electric)	560-mile total range, 46 mpg
Kia Optima PHEV	Premium	$35,500	29 miles (electric)	Leather, panoramic sunroof, premium audio

Federal and State Incentives

The U.S. federal tax credit for EVs was $7,500 in 2019. But it phased out for Kia after Q2 2020—so 2019 buyers got the full amount. Many states added their own incentives:

• California: $2,000 rebate (CVRP program).
• New York: $2,000 rebate.
• Colorado: $5,000 tax credit.

With incentives, the Niro EV could cost as little as $26,000 in some states. That’s less than a loaded Honda CR-V.

Note: Used 2019 models (2023–2024) still offer great value, often priced $10,000–$15,000 below new.

Ownership Experience: Real-World Pros and Cons

After driving multiple 2019 Kia EVs, here’s what stood out—both good and bad.

What We Loved

• Reliability: Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (including battery) gave peace of mind.
• Low running costs: Electricity was cheaper than gas. Maintenance was minimal—no oil changes, fewer moving parts.
• Quiet ride: EVs are silent at low speeds. Made city driving peaceful.
• Resale value: Kia EVs held value better than many competitors.

Where They Could Improve

• Infotainment lag: The Soul EV’s screen sometimes froze. A software update helped, but not fixed.
• Limited fast charging speed: 50 kW was fine for daily use, but slower than 100+ kW competitors.
• Rear seat space: The Niro EV’s back seat was tight for tall passengers.
• Charging port location: Some found the front-left port awkward when parking.

One owner I spoke with said: “I love my Niro EV, but I wish the fast charging was faster. I can’t do a cross-country trip without planning every stop.” Fair point.

The Verdict: Should You Consider a 2019 Kia Electric Car?

So, are 2019 Kia electric cars worth it? Absolutely—if you match the right model to your lifestyle.

The Niro EV is perfect for families who want space, range, and tech without breaking the bank. The Soul EV is ideal for city dwellers who want fun and efficiency in a compact package. And the plug-in hybrids are great for those not ready to go fully electric.

Yes, they’re not as flashy as Tesla or as fast-charging as newer models. But they offer real-world value—something often missing in the EV market. Kia didn’t try to reinvent the wheel in 2019. Instead, they built solid, dependable electric cars that just… worked.

If you’re shopping for a used EV today, a 2019 Kia is a smart choice. With strong reliability, decent range, and a price tag that’s now more affordable, it’s a testament to how far EVs have come—and how Kia helped pave the way.

So go ahead. Take one for a spin. You might just be surprised by how much you like it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What 2019 Kia electric cars are available?

The 2019 Kia electric car lineup includes the Niro EV and the Soul EV, both offering fully electric powertrains. These models cater to different preferences, with the Niro EV emphasizing efficiency and the Soul EV focusing on urban practicality.

How far can the 2019 Kia Niro EV go on a single charge?

The 2019 Kia Niro EV delivers an EPA-estimated range of 239 miles per charge, making it ideal for daily commutes and longer trips. Its 64 kWh battery supports fast charging, adding 100 miles in about 30 minutes with a DC fast charger.

Does the 2019 Kia Soul EV have enough range for city driving?

Yes, the 2019 Kia Soul EV offers a 111-mile EPA-estimated range, perfect for urban errands and short commutes. While not as long-range as the Niro EV, it’s well-suited for city dwellers needing reliable electric mobility.

Are 2019 Kia electric cars eligible for federal tax credits?

Yes, both the 2019 Kia Niro EV and Soul EV qualify for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit. State-specific incentives may also apply, depending on your location.

What safety features come standard on 2019 Kia electric cars?

2019 Kia electric cars include advanced safety tech like Forward Collision Avoidance, Lane Keeping Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. Higher trims add Blind-Spot Monitoring and Smart Cruise Control for enhanced peace of mind.

How does the 2019 Kia Niro EV compare to other electric SUVs?

The 2019 Kia Niro EV stands out with its 239-mile range, spacious interior, and value-packed features. It competes closely with the Hyundai Kona Electric but offers more cargo space and a smoother ride quality.