Kia All Electric Cars 2021 A Complete Guide to Models and Features

The 2021 Kia all-electric lineup delivers impressive range, cutting-edge tech, and bold design across its EV models. From the versatile Kia Niro EV with 239 miles of range to the sleek Kia EV6 (arriving late 2021) boasting ultra-fast charging, Kia proves it’s a serious contender in the electric vehicle market. With standard driver-assist features, spacious interiors, and competitive pricing, these EVs offer exceptional value for eco-conscious drivers.

Key Takeaways

• Kia’s 2021 EVs offer impressive range and fast-charging capabilities.
• EV6 debuts with cutting-edge tech and 300+ mile range.
• Niro EV remains a practical, affordable choice for daily commutes.
• Regenerative braking enhances efficiency and driving comfort significantly.
• Advanced safety features standard across all 2021 electric models.
• Kia’s warranty covers EV batteries for 10 years/100,000 miles.
• Smart connectivity integrates seamlessly with Kia’s UVO infotainment system.

The Rise of Kia’s Electric Revolution: A 2021 Snapshot

Remember when electric cars were just a quirky side note in the auto industry? Fast forward to 2021, and they’re now a full-fledged movement—and Kia is right in the thick of it. If you’re thinking about going electric, Kia’s 2021 lineup might surprise you. Gone are the days of underpowered EVs with limited range and questionable styling. Kia has stepped up its game with vehicles that blend practicality, performance, and a touch of futuristic flair. Whether you’re a city commuter, a family driver, or someone just curious about the electric shift, Kia’s 2021 all-electric cars offer something refreshingly real.

But what makes these models stand out in a crowded EV market? It’s not just about zero emissions. It’s about how Kia has managed to pack in value, technology, and driving enjoyment without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into Kia’s 2021 all-electric offerings, unpack their features, compare their strengths and weaknesses, and help you decide which one—if any—might be your next ride. No hype, no sales pitch. Just honest talk about what these cars do well and where they could do better.

Kia’s 2021 All-Electric Lineup: The Models You Need to Know

1. Kia Niro EV: The Practical Everyday Electric

The Kia Niro EV is the workhorse of Kia’s electric fleet. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of EVs—versatile, reliable, and ready for daily life. Based on the hybrid Niro, the EV version ditches the gas engine for a 64 kWh battery and a 201-horsepower electric motor. It’s not a sports car, but it’s not trying to be. Instead, it delivers a smooth, quiet ride that’s perfect for urban driving and weekend getaways.

• Range: Up to 239 miles on a full charge (EPA-estimated).
• Charging: Supports DC fast charging (up to 100 kW), meaning you can get 80% charge in about 54 minutes.

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• Seating: Five passengers with decent cargo space (18.5 cu. ft. behind the rear seats).

What’s great? The Niro EV feels familiar. If you’ve driven a compact crossover before, you’ll feel right at home. The interior is roomy, the infotainment is intuitive, and the driving dynamics are predictable—no surprises. It’s also priced competitively, making it a solid choice for first-time EV buyers.

But it’s not perfect. The ride can feel a bit firm on rough roads, and while the range is solid, it’s not class-leading. If you’re doing long highway trips regularly, you’ll need to plan charging stops. Still, for city dwellers or suburban families, the Niro EV is a no-nonsense EV that gets the job done.

2. Kia Soul EV: The Quirky, Fun-to-Drive Option

Ah, the Kia Soul EV—the boxy, bold, and unapologetically fun cousin in the family. The 2021 Soul EV keeps the original’s iconic design but swaps the engine for a 64 kWh battery and a 201-hp motor. It’s the same power as the Niro EV, but the driving experience is totally different. The Soul feels more agile, more playful, like a go-kart with a roof.

• Range: Up to 243 miles (EPA).
• Charging: Same 100 kW DC fast charging as the Niro EV.
• Interior: Spacious cabin with a unique, tech-forward dashboard layout.

The Soul EV’s biggest win is its personality. It’s not trying to blend in. The upright design gives great visibility, and the high seating position makes you feel in control. Inside, the infotainment screen floats above the dash, and the digital gauge cluster is sharp and customizable. It’s also surprisingly practical—the boxy shape means more headroom and cargo space than most compact EVs.

The downside? The ride is a bit bouncy over bumps, and the steering, while light, lacks feedback. It’s also not available in all U.S. states (limited availability), which can be frustrating if you’re eyeing one. But if you want an EV with character, the Soul EV is a standout.

3. The Kia EV6: The Future Is Here (Almost)

Okay, technically the Kia EV6 launched in late 2021, but it’s worth mentioning because it’s a game-changer. Built on Hyundai-Kia’s new E-GMP electric platform, the EV6 isn’t just another EV—it’s a statement. With a sleek, coupe-SUV design, up to 320 miles of range, and blistering acceleration (0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds for the GT-Line AWD), it’s Kia’s first true performance electric.

• Range: 232 miles (base RWD) to 320 miles (RWD with 77.4 kWh battery).
• Charging: 800V architecture means 10-80% charge in just 18 minutes (on a 350 kW charger).
• Tech: Dual 12.3-inch screens, augmented reality HUD, and over-the-air updates.

The EV6 feels like the future. The interior is minimalist yet premium, with sustainable materials and a floating center console. The driving experience is refined—quiet, smooth, and planted. The fast charging capability is a real advantage for road trips. No more “charging anxiety” if you have access to a high-speed station.

But it’s not without flaws. The base model’s range is good but not exceptional, and the AWD versions eat into range (around 274 miles). The price tag is higher than the Niro or Soul, and the rear visibility is a bit limited due to the sloped roofline. Still, for early adopters and tech lovers, the EV6 is a glimpse into Kia’s electric future.

Performance and Driving Experience: How Do They Handle?

Acceleration and Power Delivery

All three Kia all electric cars 2021 models share a similar powertrain setup—single-motor RWD or dual-motor AWD (on the EV6)—but they feel very different behind the wheel. The Niro EV is the most “normal.” It’s not fast, but it’s responsive enough for city driving. The instant torque gives you a nice push off the line, and it handles highway merging with ease.

The Soul EV is the fun one. The lower center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery) makes it feel nimble. It’s not a track car, but it corners with confidence, and the steering is light but direct. It’s the kind of car you’ll enjoy driving even when you’re just running errands.

The EV6? That’s where things get serious. The AWD version has 320 horsepower and all-wheel drive, so it launches like a sports sedan. The power delivery is smooth and linear, and the car feels planted at high speeds. It’s also the only one with selectable drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow), so you can tailor the throttle response and steering weight.

Ride Comfort and Handling

The Niro EV’s suspension is tuned for comfort, but it’s a bit stiff over rough pavement. It’s not uncomfortable, but it’s not as plush as some competitors. The Soul EV is firmer—almost sporty—which can be jarring on potholed roads. But if you like a connected feel, you’ll appreciate it.

The EV6 strikes the best balance. The suspension is tuned for both comfort and control, and the adaptive dampers (on higher trims) help smooth out bumps. The low center of gravity also reduces body roll in corners. It’s the most “premium” feeling of the three.

Regenerative Braking: One-Pedal Driving?

All models offer adjustable regenerative braking via paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. You can set it to “coast” (minimal regen) or “one-pedal” (strong regen, where lifting off the gas slows the car dramatically). The Niro and Soul EV have three levels of regen, while the EV6 adds an “i-Pedal” mode for full one-pedal driving.

Tip: If you’re new to EVs, start with low regen to get used to the feel. Once you’re comfortable, try higher levels to maximize energy recovery and reduce brake wear.

Charging and Range: What You Need to Know

Real-World Range vs. EPA Estimates

EPA range numbers are a good starting point, but real-world range depends on driving style, weather, and terrain. Here’s a breakdown:

• Niro EV: Expect 200-220 miles in mixed driving. Highway speeds (70+ mph) can cut range by 15-20%.
• Soul EV: Slightly better efficiency—220-230 miles in real-world use. The boxy shape helps with aerodynamics at speed.
• EV6: The RWD 77.4 kWh model delivers ~300 miles in mixed driving. AWD versions drop to ~250-270 miles.

Pro tip: Use Kia’s UVO Link app to monitor battery usage and plan charging stops. It shows energy consumption by driving mode (city, highway, etc.) and even estimates range based on your current driving habits.

Charging Options and Times

All models come with a Level 1 (120V) charger for home use, but it’s slow—about 4 miles of range per hour. For practicality, invest in a Level 2 (240V) home charger (~$500-$700 installed). It adds 20-30 miles of range per hour, so a full charge takes 8-10 hours (Niro/Soul) or 10-12 hours (EV6 with 77.4 kWh battery).

For DC fast charging:

• Niro EV/Soul EV: 10-80% in ~50-60 minutes (100 kW max).
• EV6: 10-80% in ~18 minutes (350 kW max)—but only at compatible chargers (like Electrify America).

Note: Not all DC chargers are created equal. Some “fast” chargers only deliver 50 kW, which can double charging time. Use apps like PlugShare or A Better Routeplanner to find high-speed stations.

Charging Costs and Incentives

Electricity is cheaper than gas, but costs vary by region. On average, charging at home costs $0.12-$0.20 per kWh. For a full charge:

• Niro EV: ~$7.70 (64 kWh × $0.12).
• EV6 (77.4 kWh): ~$9.30.

Federal tax credits (up to $7,500) may apply, depending on your tax liability. Some states offer additional rebates (e.g., California’s $2,000 Clean Fuel Reward).

Interior, Tech, and Practicality: Living with a Kia EV

Infotainment and Connectivity

All 2021 Kia EVs use the same 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It’s responsive, with crisp graphics and intuitive menus. Standard features include:

• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (wireless on EV6).
• Navigation with EV-specific routing (shows charging stations and estimated battery level).
• Voice commands for climate, navigation, and media.

The EV6 ups the game with dual 12.3-inch screens (one for gauges, one for infotainment) and an augmented reality HUD. The HUD projects navigation arrows onto the road, which feels like something out of a sci-fi movie.

Minor gripe: The physical climate controls are replaced by touch-sensitive buttons on the center console. They’re not backlit well at night, so you’ll need to memorize their positions.

Space and Cargo

The Niro EV has the most usable cargo space (18.5 cu. ft. behind rear seats, 53 cu. ft. with seats folded). The Soul EV is close (18.8 cu. ft. behind seats), but the boxy shape makes it easier to load bulky items. The EV6 has 20 cu. ft. behind the rear seats, but the sloped roofline limits tall cargo.

Passenger space is good across the board. The Niro and Soul have generous legroom, while the EV6 feels more like a midsize SUV inside—plenty of room for adults up front, but rear legroom is decent, not exceptional.

Everyday Practicality

All models have keyless entry, push-button start, and a hands-free power liftgate (on higher trims). The EV6 adds a “vehicle-to-load” (V2L) feature—you can power small appliances or tools using the car’s battery. It’s great for camping or emergencies.

Tip: If you live in a cold climate, pre-condition the cabin while the car is plugged in. It warms the cabin using grid power, not the battery, which preserves range.

Value and Ownership: Is a Kia EV Right for You?

Pricing and Trim Levels

Here’s a quick price guide (MSRP, before incentives):

• Niro EV: $39,090 (EX) to $44,650 (EX Premium).
• Soul EV: $33,990 (EX) to $38,500 (EX Premium)—but availability is limited.
• EV6: $40,900 (Wind RWD) to $55,900 (GT-Line AWD).

The Niro EV is the best value for most buyers. It’s well-equipped even in the base trim (heated front seats, adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist). The EV6 is pricier, but you’re paying for cutting-edge tech and faster charging.

Warranty and Reliability

Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (including the battery) is one of the best in the industry. The battery is also covered for 8 years/100,000 miles (or 70% capacity retention, whichever comes first).

Real-world reliability? Early reports are positive. The Niro EV has been on the market longer, and owners report few issues. The EV6 is too new for long-term data, but the E-GMP platform is shared with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which has a strong reliability record.

Total Cost of Ownership

EVs cost less to maintain than gas cars. No oil changes, no spark plugs, and fewer moving parts mean lower repair bills. Kia’s 3-year/36,000-mile complimentary maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations, etc.) adds even more value.

Over 5 years, a Kia EV could save you $5,000-$8,000 in fuel and maintenance vs. a comparable gas car (based on 12,000 miles/year and $3.50/gallon gas).

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy a Kia All Electric Car in 2021?

So, after all this, what’s the verdict? The Kia all electric cars 2021 lineup isn’t about chasing headlines. It’s about offering real, usable EVs for real people. The Niro EV is the no-brainer choice for families and daily drivers. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable, efficient, and affordable. The Soul EV is for those who want a little fun with their practicality—perfect if you love standing out from the crowd. And the EV6? That’s for the tech-forward, early adopters who want to be part of the future, today.

No car is perfect, and Kia’s EVs have their quirks. The Niro’s ride is a bit firm, the Soul’s availability is spotty, and the EV6’s rear visibility takes some getting used to. But if you’re looking for value, reliability, and a smooth transition to electric, Kia delivers. They’ve taken the fear out of going electric—no range panic, no tech overwhelm. Just solid cars that happen to run on batteries.

And here’s the best part: Kia is just getting started. With the EV6, they’ve shown what’s possible. If this is their 2021 lineup, imagine what 2025 will look like. So whether you’re ready to buy now or just curious about the electric shift, Kia’s 2021 EVs are worth a closer look. Take one for a test drive. You might just find that going electric feels a lot more natural than you thought.

Model	Range (EPA)	Max DC Charging	Starting Price	Best For
Kia Niro EV	239 miles	100 kW	$39,090	Families, city drivers
Kia Soul EV	243 miles	100 kW	$33,990	Urban drivers, fun seekers
Kia EV6 (RWD 77.4 kWh)	320 miles	350 kW	$40,900	Tech lovers, road trippers

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kia all electric cars were available in 2021?

In 2021, Kia offered the Kia Niro EV and the Kia Soul EV as its primary all-electric models. Both vehicles catered to eco-conscious drivers with practical range and modern features.

How far can the 2021 Kia Niro EV travel on a single charge?

The 2021 Kia Niro EV delivers an EPA-estimated range of **239 miles** on a full charge. This makes it a strong contender for daily commutes and longer road trips alike.

Does the 2021 Kia Soul EV support fast charging?

Yes, the 2021 Kia Soul EV supports DC fast charging, allowing it to reach **80% battery capacity in about 54 minutes** using a 100kW charger. This feature enhances convenience for on-the-go charging.

What are the key safety features in Kia’s 2021 all-electric cars?

Kia’s 2021 electric models come standard with advanced driver aids like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. These features ensure safety without compromising the electric driving experience.

Can the 2021 Kia Niro EV tow a trailer?

The 2021 Kia Niro EV has a towing capacity of up to **2,866 lbs** when properly equipped. However, towing may reduce its overall range due to increased energy consumption.

Are there tax incentives for buying a Kia all-electric car in 2021?

Yes, buyers of 2021 Kia all-electric cars like the Niro EV or Soul EV may qualify for a **federal tax credit of up to $7,500**, depending on income and local regulations. State-specific incentives could provide additional savings.