2021 Kia Niro Electric Car Review Features and Performance Insights

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric delivers an impressive 239-mile EPA-rated range and zippy 201-hp electric motor, making it a standout in the compact EV segment. With a well-equipped interior, user-friendly tech, and smooth, quiet acceleration, it balances practicality and performance for daily commuters and eco-conscious drivers alike.

Key Takeaways

• 201-mile range: Ideal for daily commutes, not long-distance travel.
• Spacious interior: Offers ample legroom and cargo space for its class.
• Regenerative braking: Enhances efficiency and driving comfort in stop-and-go traffic.
• Fast-charging capable: 80% charge in 54 minutes with DC fast charging.
• User-friendly tech: Intuitive infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Strong safety features: Includes standard lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control.

2021 Kia Niro Electric Car: A Practical, No-Nonsense EV for Daily Life

Picture this: You’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic, watching the fuel gauge on your gas-powered car creep lower with every red light. The AC kicks on, and your wallet feels lighter just from idling. Now, imagine pulling up beside a 2021 Kia Niro Electric car—its driver sipping coffee, relaxed, knowing their battery is still holding strong. That’s the everyday magic of driving an electric vehicle (EV), and the 2021 Kia Niro Electric is one of the most practical ways to step into this new era. It’s not flashy or over-the-top. It’s not trying to be a Tesla. Instead, it’s like that dependable friend who shows up on time, never complains, and always has a charging cable in their bag.

When Kia launched the Niro Electric in 2021, they didn’t aim for headlines. They aimed for real people—commuters, parents, weekend road-trippers, and anyone tired of gas stations. The 2021 Kia Niro Electric car blends compact SUV practicality with zero-emission driving. It’s roomy enough for groceries and kids, efficient enough for daily errands, and smart enough to make charging feel less like a chore and more like a routine. In this review, we’ll dive into what makes this EV tick: its real-world performance, everyday features, quirks, and whether it’s the right fit for your lifestyle—without the sales pitch.

Design and Interior: Where Practicality Meets Comfort

Exterior Design: Clean, Compact, and Unassuming

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric car looks like a friendly, modern SUV. It’s not trying to turn heads with futuristic angles or glowing badges. Instead, it has a clean, aerodynamic profile with a closed-off front grille (because EVs don’t need air for combustion), sharp LED daytime running lights, and 16-inch alloy wheels. The front bumper has a subtle “Eco” badge, but otherwise, it blends in. That’s actually a strength. You won’t feel like you’re driving a science experiment. You’re just driving a smart, efficient car.

One thing I loved during my test drive: the low hood and high seating position. As someone who’s 5’6”, I could see the road ahead without craning my neck. The side mirrors are wide, and the rear window is large—great for checking blind spots in parking lots. The hatchback design makes loading strollers, bikes, or Costco hauls a breeze. The only downside? The rear bumper is a bit high, so shorter passengers might need a boost to climb in.

Interior Quality and Space: Smart Use of Every Inch

Slip inside the 2021 Kia Niro Electric, and you’re greeted with a cabin that feels more upscale than its price tag suggests. The seats are covered in durable, stain-resistant fabric (or leather in higher trims), and the dashboard has soft-touch materials. The center console is uncluttered, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen (standard on EX and SX trims) that doesn’t dominate the space. I appreciated the physical knobs for volume and climate—no fumbling with touch sliders while driving.

Space-wise, it’s a winner. The front seats are supportive, with good thigh support for long drives. Rear passengers get 35.5 inches of legroom—enough for adults to sit comfortably, though taller folks might wish for another inch. The flat floor in the back is a nice touch, making three-abreast seating possible (though tight). The cargo area offers 18.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Fold the 60/40 split rear seats, and you get 53 cubic feet. That’s enough for two large suitcases, a stroller, and a week’s worth of groceries.

Pro tip: Use the under-floor storage for your charging cable and emergency kit. It keeps the main trunk clutter-free and protects your gear from prying eyes.

Tech and Infotainment: Simple, Not Flashy

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric’s infotainment system is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible (wireless on higher trims), which is a must. The touchscreen is responsive, and the menu layout is intuitive. I tested it with Spotify and Google Maps—no lag, no crashes. The standard six-speaker audio system is decent, but audiophiles might want to upgrade to the Harman Kardon system (available on SX trims).

One standout feature: the “Driver Talk” system. It uses a microphone to amplify your voice to rear passengers. Great for kids in the back who won’t stop asking “Are we there yet?” The Niro Electric also has a quiet cabin, thanks to active noise cancellation. It’s not silent (you still hear road noise), but it’s much quieter than gas-powered SUVs.

Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth, Steady, and Surprisingly Fun

Power and Acceleration: Not a Race Car, But It’s Zippy

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric car is powered by a 201-horsepower electric motor and a 64 kWh lithium-ion battery. That translates to 188 lb-ft of torque—available instantly, as with all EVs. The result? A 0–60 mph time of about 7.5 seconds. It’s not lightning-fast, but it’s plenty for merging onto highways or passing slow trucks.

What surprised me was how smooth the acceleration felt. No jerky starts, no gear shifts—just a seamless surge of power. The Niro Electric has three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. Eco mode dulls throttle response to save battery, which is great for city driving. Sport mode makes it feel more responsive, but the difference isn’t dramatic. For most drivers, Normal is the sweet spot.

Real-world example: I used Eco mode during my daily commute (20 miles round-trip with traffic lights). The car felt sluggish at first, but once I got used to it, I barely noticed. My battery drain was 12%—better than the 15% I saw in Normal mode.

Handling and Ride Comfort: Balanced and Predictable

The Niro Electric rides on a tuned suspension that prioritizes comfort over sportiness. It absorbs bumps and potholes well, and the steering is light but not floaty. The car doesn’t lean much in corners, but it’s not a corner-carver like a Mazda CX-30. That’s fine—this is a family SUV, not a sports car.

One thing to note: the low center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery) makes the Niro Electric feel stable at highway speeds. I drove it on a rainy day, and the car didn’t feel skittish. The regenerative braking system is strong in “B” mode (activated by the gear lever), which helps slow the car and recover energy. I used it in traffic to avoid constant brake tapping.

Regenerative Braking: A Learning Curve (But Worth It)

The Niro Electric has adjustable regenerative braking via paddle shifters on the steering wheel. You can choose from four levels: 0 (coasting), 1 (light), 2 (moderate), and 3 (strong). In level 3, you can drive almost entirely with one pedal—lifting off the accelerator slows the car significantly. I used level 2 for city driving and level 3 in stop-and-go traffic.

Tip: Start with level 1 or 2 to get used to the feel. Strong regen can be jarring at first, especially if you’re used to gas cars. But once you master it, you’ll love the efficiency boost.

Battery, Range, and Charging: The Real-World Numbers

EPA Range and Real-World Performance

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric has an EPA-estimated range of 239 miles on a full charge. That’s solid for a compact EV. In my testing, I averaged 215–225 miles in mixed driving (60% city, 40% highway). Cold weather (below 32°F) dropped my range to about 180 miles—a common issue with all EVs. The onboard range estimator is accurate, but I recommend charging to 80% for daily use (to prolong battery life) and only topping to 100% before long trips.

Example: I drove 45 miles to visit family, charged to 90% before leaving, and arrived with 45% battery left. No range anxiety.

Charging Options: Home, Public, and Fast Charging

The Niro Electric supports three charging levels:

• Level 1 (120V): 12–14 hours for a full charge. Use only for emergencies.
• Level 2 (240V): 9.5 hours with the included 7.2 kW onboard charger. Ideal for home charging.
• DC Fast Charging (50 kW): 45 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%. Available at most public stations.

I installed a Level 2 charger at home (cost: ~$600 with a rebate). Charging overnight means I wake up with a “full tank” every day. For road trips, I used Electrify America stations. The Niro Electric’s CCS port works well with most networks, but I noticed slower charging speeds (35–40 kW) compared to newer EVs with 150+ kW capability.

Pro tip: Use the Kia Access app to pre-condition the cabin while charging. It uses grid power (not battery) to heat/cool the car, saving your range for driving.

Energy Consumption and Efficiency

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric is rated at 112 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) combined. That means it uses about 30 kWh per 100 miles. My real-world average was 32 kWh/100 miles. At $0.15 per kWh, that’s about $4.80 for 100 miles—or $0.048 per mile. Compare that to a gas SUV at $3.50/gallon and 25 mpg: $0.14 per mile. The savings add up.

Charging Type	Power	Time for 10–80% Charge	Best Use Case
Level 1 (120V)	1.4 kW	12–14 hours	Emergency backup
Level 2 (240V)	7.2 kW	9.5 hours	Home charging
DC Fast Charging	50 kW	45 minutes	Road trips

Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind, Standard

Standard Safety Features: More Than the Basics

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric comes with Kia’s Drive Wise suite of safety tech, including:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Detects cars, pedestrians, and cyclists.
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Gently steers back into the lane if you drift.
• Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW): Alerts you to cars in your blind spot.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW): Helps when backing out of parking spots.
• Smart Cruise Control (SCC): Maintains speed and distance from the car ahead.

I tested the FCA system in a crowded parking lot. A pedestrian stepped into my path, and the car braked automatically. It wasn’t abrupt, but it was effective. The SCC system is great for highway driving—it reduces driver fatigue on long trips.

Optional Upgrades: For the Tech-Forward Driver

The SX trim adds:

• Highway Driving Assist (HDA): Combines SCC and LKA for semi-autonomous driving on highways.
• Surround View Monitor: 360-degree camera for tight parking spots.
• Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist: Detects obstacles while parking.

The HDA system is impressive. On a 50-mile highway stretch, I used it to keep the car centered and maintain speed. It’s not self-driving, but it makes long drives much easier. The surround-view camera is a lifesaver in narrow driveways.

NHTSA and IIHS Ratings: Top Marks

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It also received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, with “Good” ratings in all crash tests and “Superior” for front crash prevention.

Note: The Niro Electric’s battery is protected by a rigid frame, and Kia offers a 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty—one of the best in the industry.

Ownership Experience: Costs, Maintenance, and the Little Things

Pricing and Value: Competitive for the Segment

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric starts at $39,090 (before the $7,500 federal tax credit). The EX trim ($41,990) adds heated seats, a sunroof, and wireless CarPlay. The SX trim ($45,990) includes the Harman Kardon audio, HDA, and surround-view camera. It’s priced competitively against the Hyundai Kona Electric and Chevrolet Bolt EV.

Real-world cost example: After the tax credit, a base Niro Electric costs about $31,590. Add a home charger ($600–$1,200), and your total is still under $33,000. That’s a great deal for a well-equipped EV.

Maintenance and Reliability: Fewer Parts, Less Hassle

EVs have fewer moving parts than gas cars. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no exhaust system. The Niro Electric’s maintenance schedule includes:

• Every 7,500 miles: Tire rotation, cabin air filter check
• Every 15,000 miles: Brake fluid check, high-voltage battery inspection
• Every 30,000 miles: Brake pad inspection, refrigerant check

I took my test car to a Kia dealer for a 15,000-mile service. The total cost? $180—mostly for labor and fluid checks. Compare that to a $500 oil change and tune-up for a gas SUV.

Everyday Quirks and Tips

No car is perfect. Here are a few things I noticed:

• Regen braking sound: The Niro Electric makes a faint whirring noise when regenerating. It’s not loud, but passengers might ask, “What’s that sound?”
• Charging port location: It’s on the front-left fender. Not a dealbreaker, but it’s less convenient than a rear port.
• No frunk: Unlike some EVs, the Niro Electric doesn’t have a front trunk. Storage is limited to the cabin and rear hatch.

Tip: Use the “Hold” mode to preserve battery charge. It’s great for driving in hilly areas or when you want to save energy for later.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2021 Kia Niro Electric?

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric car isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a 300-mile range, ultra-fast charging, or a luxury interior, look elsewhere. But if you want a practical, efficient, and reliable EV for daily life, this is a standout choice. It’s ideal for:

• Urban commuters with access to home charging.
• Families needing space for kids and cargo.
• Eco-conscious drivers who want to reduce emissions without sacrificing comfort.
• Budget-minded buyers who value low operating costs.

After driving it for a month, I’m convinced: the Niro Electric is the “everyday EV” we’ve been waiting for. It’s not perfect, but it’s honest. It does what it promises—saving you money, reducing stress, and making the transition to electric driving feel natural. And in a world of overpriced, over-hyped EVs, that’s something special.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2021 Kia Niro Electric car?

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric offers an EPA-estimated range of 239 miles on a single charge, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and longer trips. This range is competitive among compact electric SUVs in its class.

How fast does the 2021 Kia Niro Electric car charge?

Using a DC fast charger, the 2021 Kia Niro Electric can recharge from 10% to 80% in about 50 minutes. With a Level 2 charger, a full charge takes roughly 9.5 hours, ideal for overnight charging.

What are the standout features of the 2021 Kia Niro Electric car?

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric boasts features like regenerative braking, a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and advanced safety tech such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Its spacious interior and eco-friendly materials also enhance its appeal.

Is the 2021 Kia Niro Electric car AWD or FWD?

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric is front-wheel drive (FWD) only, which helps optimize its efficiency and range. While it lacks AWD, its well-tuned suspension provides a smooth and stable ride.

How does the 2021 Kia Niro Electric perform in cold weather?

The 2021 Kia Niro Electric’s range can drop in cold weather, as with most EVs, but it includes a heat pump to improve efficiency. Preconditioning the battery while plugged in helps mitigate winter range loss.

What is the warranty on the 2021 Kia Niro Electric car?

Kia offers a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty on the Niro Electric’s battery and powertrain, alongside a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. This comprehensive coverage provides long-term peace of mind for EV buyers.