2019 Kia Niro EV Electric Cars 2020 Review and Key Features

The 2019 Kia Niro EV stands out as a practical, long-range electric SUV with an EPA-estimated 239 miles per charge, making it a top contender in the compact EV segment. Boasting a spacious interior, user-friendly tech, and a smooth, quiet ride, the 2020 model year updates enhance its appeal with improved standard features and bold styling cues. Perfect for eco-conscious drivers seeking versatility without compromise.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: 239-mile EPA range meets daily driving needs.
• Fast charging: DC fast charging reaches 80% in under an hour.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin and cargo space outperform rivals.
• Strong warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile battery coverage ensures peace of mind.
• Smart tech: Standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and driver aids.
• Smooth ride: Well-tuned suspension balances comfort and handling.

2019 Kia Niro EV Electric Cars 2020 Review and Key Features

Remember that moment when you first realized electric cars weren’t just for tree-huggers or tech geeks? For me, it was test-driving the 2019 Kia Niro EV in early 2020. I walked in skeptical—would it really go 200+ miles on a charge? Would it feel like a “real” car? By the time I pulled into my driveway, I was sold. This wasn’t just another EV; it was a practical, no-compromise crossover that made the idea of going electric feel… normal.

The 2019 Kia Niro EV (sold as the 2020 model in many markets) arrived at a sweet spot in the EV revolution. Not too early, when range anxiety ruled the day, and not too late, when prices soared. It offered real-world usability, a familiar SUV shape, and a price tag that didn’t make your wallet weep. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer, a family needing cargo space, or just tired of gas station runs, the Niro EV deserves your attention. Let’s dive into what makes this electric car tick—and where it falls short.

Design and Interior: Where Practicality Meets Modern Tech

Exterior Design: Subtle, Not Sporty

The 2019 Kia Niro EV looks like a regular crossover. And that’s the point. No futuristic LED light bars or sci-fi grilles—just a clean, aerodynamic shape with a closed-off front (no radiator needed) and subtle EV badges. The 17-inch alloy wheels are designed for efficiency, not flash. I loved that it didn’t scream “look at me, I’m electric!”—perfect for blending into school pickup lines or suburban parking lots.

Pro tip: The Niro EV’s drag coefficient is 0.29, which is excellent for a compact SUV. That means less wind resistance and better range. Compare that to the Tesla Model 3’s 0.23, and you see the trade-off: the Niro prioritizes practicality over aerodynamics.

Interior: Spacious and User-Friendly

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels more premium than its price suggests. The 2020 model (based on the 2019 Niro EV) upgraded the interior with soft-touch materials, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Rear legroom is generous—my 6’1” brother could sit behind the driver’s seat without complaining. The cargo area offers 18.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats (expanding to 56.4 with seats folded), which easily fits a stroller, groceries, or camping gear.

• Heated seats and steering wheel: Standard on all trims—a lifesaver in winter.
• Sunroof: Available on the EX Premium trim, adding a nice touch of openness.
• Storage: Clever cubbies and a center console big enough for a tablet.

Real-world example: I packed the Niro EV for a weekend trip with two adults, a dog, and luggage. No Tetris required. The rear seats fold flat, and the low load floor made loading easy.

Tech and Infotainment: No Frills, No Hassle

The 8-inch touchscreen runs Kia’s UVO infotainment system, which is intuitive and responsive. Standard features include:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless on 2020 models)
• 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system (EX Premium trim)
• Navigation with EV-specific routing (shows charging stations)
• Bluetooth with dual phone pairing

The system lacks the flash of Tesla’s interface, but it’s reliable. I never had lag or crashes during my test drive. The only gripe? The physical climate control knobs—while easier to use than touchscreens—are placed low on the center console, requiring a slight reach.

Performance and Range: How Far Can It Really Go?

Range: 239 Miles on a Single Charge

The 2019 Kia Niro EV’s 64 kWh battery delivers an EPA-estimated 239 miles of range. In real-world driving, I averaged 210–220 miles in mixed conditions (70% highway, 30% city). That’s enough for most daily commutes and weekend getaways. For context:

• Daily commute: A 30-mile round trip = 12 days of driving before recharging.
• Weekend trip: A 200-mile round trip to the mountains? Possible with one charge stop.

Tip: Use the car’s “Eco” or “Eco+” driving modes to stretch range. In Eco+, the Niro EV limits acceleration and climate control, adding ~10% more range.

Power and Acceleration: Smooth, Not Speedy

The Niro EV’s 201-horsepower motor delivers 291 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration from 0–60 mph in 7.1 seconds. It’s not a Tesla Model S, but it’s quicker than most gas-powered compact SUVs. The instant torque makes merging onto highways effortless. However, it feels heavier than its 3,854-pound curb weight suggests—especially in corners. The steering is light, which helps in parking lots but lacks feedback on twisty roads.

Anecdote: During a test drive in heavy rain, the Niro EV’s traction control kicked in seamlessly. No wheelspin or skidding, even on wet pavement.

Regenerative Braking: Customizable for Every Driver

The Niro EV offers four levels of regenerative braking (via steering wheel paddles):

1. Level 0: Coasting (like a gas car).
2. Level 1–3: Increasing deceleration, allowing one-pedal driving.

I preferred Level 2—it slowed the car enough for traffic but didn’t feel jerky. Level 3 (strongest) is great for downhill driving, recapturing energy while reducing brake wear. The system isn’t as aggressive as the Nissan Leaf’s e-Pedal, but it’s more intuitive.

Charging: What to Expect at Home and on the Road

Home Charging: The 240V Advantage

The Niro EV comes with a 240V Level 2 charger (included with purchase). At home, a full charge takes ~9.5 hours. That means:

• Overnight charging (8 hours) = 200+ miles.
• Plug in at 8 PM, wake up with a full “tank.”

Tip: Install a dedicated 240V outlet (50-amp circuit). Most electricians charge $500–$1,000 for installation, but it’s a one-time cost that pays off in convenience.

Public Charging: DC Fast Charging Saves Time

The Niro EV supports DC fast charging (50 kW max). At a 50 kW charger, you can go from 10% to 80% in ~50 minutes. However, it’s not as fast as newer EVs like the Hyundai Kona Electric (75 kW) or Tesla Model 3 (250 kW). During a road trip, I charged at a ChargePoint station:

• 10% → 80% in 52 minutes (50 kW charger).
• Cost: $12.50 (at $0.25/kWh).

Pro tip: Use the car’s navigation to find chargers. The UVO system filters by speed, availability, and even pricing. Avoid “dumb” chargers—stick to networks like ChargePoint, EVgo, or Electrify America.

Charging Network Compatibility

The Niro EV uses the CCS (Combined Charging System) connector, which is standard in North America. It works with:

• ChargePoint
• EVgo
• Electrify America
• Shell Recharge

No need for an adapter, unlike Tesla’s proprietary Supercharger network (though adapters are available).

Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind for Families

Crash Test Ratings: Top Safety Pick

The 2019 Niro EV earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with “Good” scores in all crash tests. The NHTSA gave it 5 stars overall. Standard safety features include:

• Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Driver attention monitoring

Real-world example: On a busy highway, the Niro EV’s forward collision system braked automatically when a car merged abruptly. No damage, no stress.

Reliability: Few Issues, Strong Warranty

The Niro EV has a solid reputation for reliability. Common issues are minor:

• Occasional software glitches in the infotainment system (fixed with updates).
• Some reports of slow DC charging in cold weather (below 32°F).

Kia’s warranty is a standout:

• Battery and EV components: 10 years/100,000 miles
• Vehicle: 5 years/60,000 miles
• Roadside assistance: 5 years/unlimited miles

Compare that to Tesla’s 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, and you see Kia’s commitment to long-term ownership.

Advanced Driver Assistance: Highway Driving Made Easier

The EX Premium trim adds Highway Driving Assist (HDA), a semi-autonomous system that:

• Maintains speed and distance from the car ahead
• Keeps the car centered in its lane
• Adjusts speed for curves

It’s not self-driving, but it reduces fatigue on long trips. I used it on a 3-hour highway drive—my shoulders relaxed, and my focus improved.

Cost and Value: Is the Niro EV Worth the Price?

Price Breakdown: Trim Levels and Incentives

The 2020 Kia Niro EV starts at $39,090 (EX trim) and tops out at $44,650 (EX Premium). Here’s a comparison of key trims:

Trim	Price	Key Features	Range
EX	$39,090	Heated seats, 8″ touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, DC fast charging	239 miles
EX Premium	$44,650	Harman Kardon audio, sunroof, Highway Driving Assist, ventilated seats	239 miles

Tip: Check for federal and state incentives. The Niro EV qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit (as of 2020) and additional rebates in states like California ($2,000) and Colorado ($5,000). These can reduce the effective price to $26,590–$31,590.

Total Cost of Ownership: Savings Over Time

EVs have lower maintenance and fuel costs. For the Niro EV:

• Annual electricity cost: ~$600 (at $0.13/kWh, 12,000 miles/year)
• Annual gas cost (for a comparable SUV): ~$1,800 (at $3.50/gallon, 25 MPG)
• Maintenance: No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. Brakes last longer due to regenerative braking.

Example: Over 5 years, you could save $6,000+ in fuel and maintenance. Add the tax credit, and the Niro EV becomes a compelling value.

Resale Value: Holding Strong

The Niro EV retains ~50% of its value after 3 years, which is average for EVs. It’s not as strong as the Tesla Model 3 (~60%) but better than the Nissan Leaf (~40%). Kia’s warranty helps here—buyers know the battery is covered for a decade.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2019 Kia Niro EV?

The 2019 Kia Niro EV (sold as the 2020 model) isn’t perfect, but it’s one of the most practical electric cars on the market. It’s ideal for:

• First-time EV buyers: The familiar SUV design eases the transition from gas cars.
• Families: Spacious interior, top safety ratings, and cargo room.
• Commuters: 239-mile range covers most daily drives with room to spare.
• Budget-conscious shoppers: Incentives and low operating costs make it affordable.

Where it falls short: The DC fast charging speed (50 kW) feels dated compared to newer EVs, and the ride can feel stiff on rough roads. But for most drivers, these are minor trade-offs for a car that delivers on range, comfort, and value.

After my test drive, I didn’t buy the Niro EV—I chose a slightly newer model—but I still recommend it to friends. It’s the electric car that doesn’t ask you to sacrifice practicality for sustainability. In a world of overhyped EVs, the Niro EV is the quiet, reliable friend who gets the job done. If you’re ready to go electric without the drama, give it a test drive. You might just find yourself smiling at the gas station… because you’ll never need to visit it again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the 2019 Kia Niro EV electric cars 2020 model?

The 2019 Kia Niro EV (sold alongside 2020 models) features a 64 kWh battery pack, delivering an EPA-estimated 239 miles of range. It also includes regenerative braking, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

How does the 2019 Kia Niro EV compare to other electric cars in its class?

The 2019 Kia Niro EV stands out for its practical SUV design, competitive 239-mile range, and lower price than rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric. Its spacious interior and smooth ride make it a top choice for eco-conscious families.

What is the charging time for the 2019 Kia Niro EV?

Using a Level 2 charger (240V), the 2019 Kia Niro EV takes about 9.5 hours for a full charge. With a DC fast charger, it can reach 80% capacity in roughly 75 minutes, making long trips manageable.

Is the 2019 Kia Niro EV eligible for federal tax credits or incentives?

Yes, the 2019 Kia Niro EV qualifies for the full $7,500 U.S. federal tax credit, as it was among the first Kia EVs sold in the U.S. State and local incentives may also apply, depending on your location.

What is the warranty coverage for the 2019 Kia Niro EV electric cars 2020 lineup?

The 2019 Kia Niro EV comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. This coverage is among the best in the industry, providing long-term peace of mind.

How safe is the 2019 Kia Niro EV for daily driving?

The 2019 Kia Niro EV earns a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, thanks to its high-strength steel frame and standard safety tech like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. It’s a reliable and secure choice for daily commutes.