Kia Best Electric Cars Top Models Reviewed for 2024

Kia’s 2024 electric lineup delivers exceptional value, cutting-edge tech, and bold designs, with standout models like the EV6 and EV9 leading the charge. From the sporty, efficient EV6 to the spacious, family-friendly EV9, Kia offers an EV for every need, backed by impressive range, fast charging, and industry-leading warranties.

Key Takeaways

• Kia EV6: Top pick for range and fast charging in 2024.
• Affordable options: Kia Niro EV delivers value with solid efficiency.
• Spacious interiors: EV9 excels in family-friendly, three-row comfort.
• Cutting-edge tech: All models feature advanced driver-assist systems.
• Long warranties: Kia’s 10-year/100k-mile battery coverage leads the industry.
• Sustainability focus: Eco-conscious materials used across new EV lineups.

Why Kia Is Leading the Charge in Affordable Electric Vehicles

Let’s be honest: going electric can feel overwhelming. Between charging anxiety, sticker shock, and the sheer number of options, picking your first (or next) electric car is no small task. But if there’s one brand that’s making the transition feel not just possible but downright exciting, it’s Kia. Over the past few years, Kia has quietly but confidently transformed from a value-focused automaker into a serious contender in the electric vehicle (EV) space. Their lineup now includes some of the most compelling, tech-forward, and wallet-friendly EVs on the market.

I remember test-driving my first Kia EV a few years back. I was skeptical—how could a brand known for budget-friendly sedans compete with Tesla or even Hyundai’s premium EVs? But within minutes, I was won over. The ride was smooth, the tech was intuitive, and the price tag didn’t make my eyes water. Fast forward to 2024, and Kia’s electric lineup has matured into a family of vehicles that cater to a wide range of needs—from city commuters to adventure-seeking families. Whether you’re looking for range, style, or value, Kia best electric cars are no longer a hidden gem; they’re a top pick for savvy EV shoppers.

What Makes Kia Electric Cars Stand Out?

Balanced Value Without Sacrificing Quality

One of the biggest reasons Kia best electric cars are gaining traction is their sweet spot between affordability and premium features. While brands like Tesla and Lucid aim for the luxury end, Kia delivers a well-rounded package that doesn’t force you to compromise. Take the Kia EV6: it offers a futuristic design, 300+ miles of range, and ultra-fast charging—all while starting under $43,000 (before incentives). That’s not just competitive; it’s disruptive.

Compare that to a Tesla Model Y, which starts around $45,000 but often creeps up with add-ons. Kia includes more standard features—like a heated steering wheel, wireless Apple CarPlay, and advanced driver aids—right out of the box. It’s like getting the “premium” package without the premium price.

Reliability and Warranty That Eases Anxiety

Let’s talk about peace of mind. Buying an EV is a big commitment, and reliability matters. Kia backs its electric vehicles with one of the best warranties in the industry: a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, including the battery and electric motor. That’s not just marketing fluff—it’s a real safety net for buyers worried about long-term ownership costs.

For example, I know a family in Austin who leased a Kia Niro EV three years ago. They drove it hard—18,000 miles a year—and never had a single issue. When they returned it, the dealership praised them for the car’s condition. That kind of real-world reliability builds trust, and Kia has earned it.

Design That Turns Heads

Gone are the days when “affordable” meant “bland.” Kia’s design language, led by the “Opposites United” philosophy, blends sharp lines, bold lighting signatures, and aerodynamic profiles. The EV6, for instance, looks like it’s from 2030—not 2024. Its “Digital Tiger Face” front end and boomerang-shaped LED lights give it a futuristic edge, while the interior feels spacious and high-tech.

Even the more practical Kia EV9, a three-row SUV, manages to look sleek and modern. It’s proof that practicality and style don’t have to be mutually exclusive. If you’re tired of EVs that all look like futuristic jellybeans, Kia offers a refreshing alternative.

Top Kia Electric Cars for 2024: In-Depth Reviews

Kia EV6: The All-Rounder That Does It All

The Kia EV6 is arguably the brand’s flagship EV, and for good reason. Built on the same E-GMP platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, it delivers impressive performance, range, and charging speed. Available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, the EV6 offers something for everyone.

• Range: Up to 310 miles (RWD, 77.4 kWh battery)
• Charging: 10-80% in 18 minutes on a 350 kW DC fast charger
• Power: Up to 576 hp in the GT trim (0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds)
• Price: Starts at $42,600 (Wind trim, RWD)

What makes the EV6 special is its versatility. The RWD version is perfect for daily commutes and road trips, while the AWD models add extra grip and towing capacity (up to 2,300 lbs). The GT trim, with its track-focused suspension and massive power, is a legitimate performance EV—though it’s best suited for enthusiasts.

One standout feature is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system. Using an adapter, you can power devices like laptops, mini-fridges, or even a small campsite. I used it during a tailgate party last summer—powered a projector and sound system from the car. It’s a game-changer for outdoor lovers.

The only downside? The ride can feel a bit firm on rough roads, especially in the GT trim. But for most drivers, the trade-off in handling and responsiveness is worth it.

Kia EV9: The Electric SUV for Families

If you need space, the Kia EV9 is the brand’s first three-row electric SUV—and it’s a revelation. It’s not just a stretched version of the EV6; it’s a reimagined family hauler with a focus on comfort, tech, and practicality.

• Range: Up to 304 miles (RWD, 99.8 kWh battery)
• Charging: 10-80% in ~25 minutes (350 kW charger)
• Seating: 7 passengers (6 in GT-Line and GT-Line AWD with second-row captain’s chairs)
• Price: Starts at $54,900 (Light trim, RWD)

The EV9 shines in everyday usability. The second-row seats are roomy, and the third row is actually usable for adults (a rarity in three-row SUVs). The interior is packed with features: a 12.3-inch touchscreen, dual sunroofs, and even a “Relaxation Mode” that reclines the front seats and plays ambient sounds.

One of my favorite features? The reconfigurable center console. It can slide forward to create more legroom or back for storage. It’s perfect for parents who need to pass snacks or toys between rows. The cargo space is generous too: 20.2 cu ft behind the third row, 43.5 cu ft with it folded.

The only caveat: the EV9 is heavy (over 5,000 lbs), which affects agility in city driving. But on highways and open roads, it’s smooth and quiet—ideal for family road trips.

Kia Niro EV: The Budget-Friendly Commuter

Not everyone needs a high-performance EV or a three-row SUV. For city dwellers and budget-conscious buyers, the Kia Niro EV is a standout. It’s compact, efficient, and surprisingly well-equipped.

• Range: 253 miles (64.8 kWh battery)
• Charging: 10-80% in ~43 minutes (100 kW max)
• Power: 201 hp, 291 lb-ft torque
• Price: Starts at $39,600 (Wind trim)

The Niro EV excels in urban environments. Its small footprint makes parking a breeze, and the 253-mile range is more than enough for most commutes. The interior is surprisingly upscale, with soft-touch materials and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with standard navigation.

One practical perk: the heat pump system. Unlike many EVs, the Niro EV uses a heat pump instead of resistive heating, which helps preserve range in cold weather. In winter tests, it retained 85% of its range at 20°F—a big win for northern drivers.

The downside? The charging speed is slower than the EV6 or EV9. If you plan to do a lot of highway driving, you might spend more time at charging stations. But for city life, it’s a near-perfect fit.

Charging and Range: Real-World Performance

How Fast Can You Recharge?

Charging speed is a major factor in EV ownership. Kia best electric cars leverage the E-GMP platform, which supports 800-volt architecture—a big deal. This allows for ultra-fast charging, especially on DC fast chargers.

Here’s a real-world example: I took the EV6 on a 200-mile road trip. I started with 80% charge and stopped at a 350 kW Electrify America station. In 18 minutes, I gained 150 miles of range. That’s faster than refueling a gas car. The EV9 is slightly slower (25 minutes for 10-80%), but still impressive for its size.

Tip: Use apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint to find fast chargers. Many Kia EVs come with free charging credits at Electrify America for 3 years—a nice perk.

Range in Different Conditions

EV range isn’t static. It depends on speed, temperature, terrain, and driving style. Kia EVs perform well in real-world tests, but here’s what to expect:

• Highway driving (70+ mph): Expect 10-15% less range than EPA estimates
• Cold weather (below 32°F): Range drops 20-30%, but heat pumps help (Niro EV, EV9)
• Hills and mountainous terrain: Regenerative braking helps, but uphill climbs drain the battery faster

For example, the EV6 RWD with 310-mile range might give you ~270 miles on a highway trip. The Niro EV’s 253-mile rating is more conservative, so it’s less affected by speed.

Home Charging: What You Need to Know

Most EV owners charge at home. Kia includes a Level 1 charger (120V) with every EV, but a Level 2 charger (240V) is strongly recommended. It cuts charging time from ~50 hours to ~7-10 hours for a full charge.

Tip: Check with your utility company for rebates. Many offer discounts on home charger installations or lower electricity rates during off-peak hours (e.g., 9 PM–6 AM).

Safety, Tech, and Driver Assistance

Advanced Driver Aids That Work

Kia doesn’t cut corners on safety. All its EVs come with Kia Drive Wise, a suite of driver assistance features. Standard across the lineup:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
• Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Highway Driving Assist (HDA)
• Blind-Spot View Monitor (in higher trims)

The Highway Driving Assist is a standout. On long drives, it keeps the car centered in the lane and maintains a set speed, even around curves. I used it on I-95 last month—it reduced driver fatigue significantly. The system isn’t “hands-free,” but it’s one of the best Level 2 systems I’ve tried.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Kia’s infotainment system is intuitive and responsive. The 12.3-inch touchscreen (standard on EV6 and EV9) has crisp graphics and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Niro EV has a 10.25-inch screen, which is still great.

One underrated feature: the Kia Connect app. It lets you remotely start the car, check charge status, pre-condition the cabin, and even locate the vehicle. During a snowstorm in Chicago, I used it to warm up the EV6 from my apartment. No more scraping ice off the windshield!

Safety Ratings: What the Experts Say

The EV6 and Niro EV have earned Top Safety Pick+ awards from the IIHS. The EV9 is too new for full ratings, but it shares the same safety tech and structure. All models include eight airbags, a 360-degree camera, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Ownership Experience: Cost, Maintenance, and Resale

Total Cost of Ownership

EVs have lower maintenance costs than gas cars—no oil changes, fewer moving parts, and regenerative braking reduces wear on pads. Kia EVs take this further with:

• Free maintenance for 3 years/36,000 miles (varies by model)
• Lower electricity costs (~$0.12/kWh vs. $3.50/gallon gas)
• Tax credits: Up to $7,500 federal (check eligibility)

For example, a Kia EV6 driven 15,000 miles/year might cost ~$600 in electricity vs. ~$2,100 in gas for a comparable SUV. Over 5 years, that’s $7,500 saved—plus the tax credit.

Resale Value: A Growing Strength

Kia EVs are holding their value better than expected. The EV6, for instance, retains ~65% of its value after 3 years (per iSeeCars). That’s close to Tesla and better than many gas SUVs. The strong warranty and growing demand for EVs help.

Tip: Keep service records and avoid excessive modifications. A well-maintained EV9 or EV6 will attract buyers when it’s time to sell.

Community and Support

Kia has a growing network of EV-certified dealers. Many offer EV-specific service bays and loaner cars. Online forums and Facebook groups (like “Kia EV6 Owners”) are active and helpful for troubleshooting.

Which Kia Electric Car Is Right for You?

Choosing the right EV depends on your lifestyle. Here’s a quick guide:

Model	Best For	Key Strengths	Consider If…
Kia EV6	Tech-savvy drivers, road trippers	Fast charging, V2L, sporty handling	You want a blend of performance and practicality
Kia EV9	Families, road trip lovers	Three rows, luxury features, spacious cabin	You need room for 6-7 people and gear
Kia Niro EV	City dwellers, budget buyers	Low price, compact size, heat pump	You drive mostly in the city and want low running costs

Still unsure? Test drive all three. The EV6 feels sporty, the EV9 luxurious, and the Niro EV nimble. Kia best electric cars aren’t just about specs—they’re about how they fit into your life.

As someone who’s driven all three, I can say this: Kia isn’t just keeping up with the EV revolution—they’re shaping it. With smart design, real-world range, and a focus on value, they’ve made going electric not just possible, but enjoyable. Whether you’re buying your first EV or upgrading from a gas car, Kia offers a compelling choice. And with more models on the horizon (including the upcoming EV4), the future looks bright—and fully charged.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best Kia electric cars available in 2024?

The Kia EV6, Niro EV, and upcoming EV9 are the top Kia electric cars for 2024, offering cutting-edge tech, impressive ranges (up to 310 miles), and fast-charging capabilities. Each model caters to different needs, from compact efficiency to family-friendly SUV space.

How does the Kia EV6 compare to other Kia best electric cars?

The EV6 stands out with its 800V fast-charging system (10-80% in 18 minutes) and sporty GT trim (576 hp), while the Niro EV provides a more affordable entry point with 253 miles of range. Both share Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.

What is the range of Kia’s longest-range electric car?

The 2024 Kia EV6 Long Range RWD delivers up to 310 miles on a single charge, making it the top choice for drivers prioritizing distance. The upcoming 3-row EV9 follows closely with an estimated 300-mile range.

Are Kia electric cars eligible for the US federal tax credit in 2024?

Yes, the 2024 Kia Niro EV qualifies for the full $7,500 tax credit, while the EV6 (assembled in North America) may offer partial credits depending on battery sourcing. Always verify current eligibility with the IRS before purchase.

Which Kia best electric car is most affordable for families?

The 2024 Kia Niro EV ($39,600 starting MSRP) offers the best value with 253 miles of range, standard safety tech, and roomy rear seats. The larger EV9 (from $54,900) adds three rows but at a higher price point.

What charging speeds do Kia electric cars support?

Kia’s best electric cars feature ultra-fast charging: The EV6 supports 240kW DC fast charging (10-80% in 18 minutes), while the Niro EV maxes out at 85kW (43 minutes for 10-80%). All models include 11kW Level 2 home charging capability.