Kia Electric Car 2018 Price Review and Buying Guide

The 2018 Kia electric car lineup delivers exceptional value, with the Kia Niro EV starting at an affordable $36,490, making it one of the most budget-friendly long-range EVs on the market. Packed with 239 miles of range and a robust warranty, Kia undercuts rivals while offering premium features, proving you don’t need to overspend for cutting-edge electric performance.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable pricing: 2018 Kia electric cars start under $30K, great for budget-conscious buyers.
• Tax credits apply: Federal incentives can reduce cost by up to $7,500.
• Low maintenance: Fewer moving parts mean lower long-term ownership costs.
• Range varies: Choose trims with 150+ miles for daily commuting ease.
• Resale value: Kia EVs hold value better than most rivals in 2018.

Why the 2018 Kia Electric Car Deserves Your Attention

Remember when electric cars were rare, expensive, and often looked like they were designed in a lab? Fast forward to 2018, and things had changed dramatically. Kia, a brand once known for affordable gas-powered cars, stepped boldly into the electric vehicle (EV) market with a clear message: electric mobility should be practical, affordable, and accessible. That year, Kia introduced the 2018 Niro EV and refreshed the Soul EV, two models that brought real-world usability to the EV conversation. If you’re hunting for a used electric car today, understanding the Kia electric car 2018 price isn’t just about numbers—it’s about value, innovation, and how far EVs have come in just a few years.

Back then, many buyers were still on the fence about EVs. Charging infrastructure was spotty, range anxiety was real, and the upfront cost of a new electric car often felt like a leap of faith. But Kia’s 2018 offerings aimed to ease those fears. With competitive pricing, decent range, and the brand’s legendary reliability, these cars weren’t just for early adopters—they were for everyday drivers. Whether you were a city commuter tired of gas prices or a suburban parent looking for a greener school run, Kia had something for you. And today, as used EVs flood the market, the 2018 models are more relevant than ever. Let’s dive into what made these cars stand out and how their pricing still holds up.

Kia’s 2018 Electric Lineup: The Niro EV and Soul EV

The 2018 Kia Niro EV: A Practical Crossover

The 2018 Kia Niro EV was a game-changer for Kia. It wasn’t just an electric version of a gas car—it was designed from the ground up to be electric, with a sleek, modern look and a focus on real-world usability. Unlike some EVs that prioritized style over substance, the Niro EV offered a roomy interior, a smooth ride, and a range that made daily commutes and weekend trips stress-free.

With an EPA-estimated 239 miles on a full charge, the Niro EV was one of the most practical electric crossovers of its time. That range beat out the Chevrolet Bolt (238 miles) and was far ahead of the Nissan Leaf (151 miles). For most drivers, that meant a week of city driving without a single charge. I remember a friend who owned a 2018 Niro EV and used it for a 60-mile round trip to work. He charged it twice a week and never worried about running out of juice.

The Niro EV came in two trims: EX and EX Premium. The base EX included key features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, heated front seats, and a 7-inch touchscreen. The EX Premium added luxuries like leather seats, a sunroof, and a premium audio system. Both trims came with Kia’s 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty—a big selling point for buyers nervous about long-term reliability.

The 2018 Kia Soul EV: The Quirky Urban Commuter

If the Niro EV was the practical family car, the 2018 Kia Soul EV was the fun, funky urban runabout. It kept the boxy, retro look of the gas-powered Soul but added electric power for a zippy, nimble driving experience. With 109 miles of range, it wasn’t meant for long road trips, but for city dwellers, it was perfect.

The Soul EV was ideal for short commutes, grocery runs, and parking in tight spots. Its upright design gave drivers great visibility, and the instant torque made it feel lively in stop-and-go traffic. I once drove a Soul EV in downtown Chicago, and it handled the chaos of city streets like a champ. The tight turning radius made U-turns easy, and the compact size made parallel parking a breeze.

The Soul EV came in two trims: Base and Plus. The Base trim had a 30-kWh battery, while the Plus got a 32-kWh pack for slightly better range. Both included features like navigation, a rearview camera, and heated seats. The Plus added LED lighting and a sunroof. While it lacked the range of the Niro EV, the Soul EV’s charm and affordability made it a favorite among urban drivers.

2018 Kia Electric Car Price Breakdown: What You Paid (and What You Get Now)

Original MSRP and Trim Levels

When the 2018 Niro EV and Soul EV launched, their prices were competitive with other EVs of the time. Here’s a look at the original MSRP for each model:

Model	Trim	Original MSRP	Key Features
2018 Kia Niro EV	EX	$38,500	Heated seats, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 7-inch screen
2018 Kia Niro EV	EX Premium	$44,500	Leather seats, sunroof, premium audio, wireless charging
2018 Kia Soul EV	Base	$33,950	30-kWh battery, navigation, rearview camera, heated seats
2018 Kia Soul EV	Plus	$35,950	32-kWh battery, LED lighting, sunroof

At launch, these prices put the Niro EV in line with the Chevrolet Bolt and Hyundai Ioniq Electric, while the Soul EV was slightly cheaper than the Nissan Leaf. Kia also offered state and federal incentives, which could knock thousands off the price. For example, the federal EV tax credit of $7,500 brought the Niro EV EX down to $31,000—a great deal for a 239-mile range EV.

Used Market Prices in 2024: A Smart Buy?

Fast forward to 2024, and the Kia electric car 2018 price in the used market is even more compelling. Thanks to depreciation (a normal part of car ownership), you can now find these models at a fraction of their original cost. Here’s what to expect:

• 2018 Kia Niro EV: $15,000–$20,000, depending on trim and condition. High-mileage models (over 50,000 miles) can go as low as $12,000.
• 2018 Kia Soul EV: $10,000–$15,000. The Plus trim with the 32-kWh battery is worth the extra $1,000–$2,000.

For example, a 2018 Niro EV EX Premium with 35,000 miles and a clean history might cost $18,500. That’s a $26,000 savings from its original price—a massive drop that makes it a fantastic value. Just remember to check the battery health. EVs lose some range over time, but most 2018 Kias still retain 85–90% of their original range.

Cost of Ownership: Fuel, Maintenance, and Incentives

One of the biggest perks of buying a used EV is the low cost of ownership. Here’s how the 2018 Kia electric cars stack up:

• Fuel: Charging costs about $0.12–$0.15 per kWh. For the Niro EV (64 kWh battery), a full charge costs $7.68–$9.60. Compare that to a gas SUV averaging 25 MPG and $3.50/gallon: $14 for the same 239-mile range.
• Maintenance: No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. Just tire rotations, brake checks (regenerative braking reduces wear), and cabin air filters. Expect to spend $500–$700/year, half of what you’d pay for a gas car.
• Insurance: Slightly higher than gas cars (due to battery replacement costs), but still competitive. A 2018 Niro EV averages $1,200–$1,500/year.

Tip: Check if your state offers used EV incentives. Some places give rebates or tax credits for used EV purchases—another way to save.

Performance and Range: Real-World Driving Experience

Acceleration, Handling, and Comfort

The 2018 Kia electric cars weren’t built to win drag races, but they delivered smooth, responsive performance that felt great in daily driving. The Niro EV’s 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque made merging onto highways easy, while the Soul EV’s 109 horsepower was perfect for city streets. Both had a single-speed transmission, which meant no gear shifts—just seamless power delivery.

Handling was a strong point. The Niro EV’s higher ride height gave it a stable, confident feel on the highway, while the Soul EV’s compact size made it agile in tight spaces. I once took a Niro EV on a twisty mountain road in Colorado, and it handled the curves better than I expected. The low center of gravity (thanks to the battery pack) reduced body roll, and the steering was precise.

Comfort-wise, both models had supportive seats and a quiet cabin. The Niro EV’s suspension absorbed bumps well, making it great for long drives. The Soul EV was a bit firmer, but that’s typical for a smaller car. Road noise was minimal, especially at city speeds.

Range and Charging: What You Need to Know

Range is the big question for any EV buyer. Here’s how the 2018 Kia models performed in real-world conditions:

• Niro EV: EPA-rated 239 miles. In mixed driving (60% city, 40% highway), expect 210–220 miles. Cold weather reduces range by 20–30%, so plan for 150–170 miles in winter.
• Soul EV: EPA-rated 109 miles (Base) or 111 miles (Plus). Real-world range is closer to 90–100 miles. Ideal for daily commutes under 50 miles.

Charging was straightforward. Both models supported Level 2 charging (240 volts), which gave a full charge in 9–11 hours (Niro EV) or 5–7 hours (Soul EV). DC fast charging was available, adding 80% charge in about 30 minutes. I found a 2018 Niro EV at a dealership that still had the original charging cable and adapter—a nice bonus.

Tip: Use apps like PlugShare to find charging stations. Many 2018 Kias have built-in navigation with charging station locations.

Interior, Tech, and Safety: Features That Matter

Interior Space and Practicality

Kia didn’t skimp on interior quality, even in 2018. The Niro EV had a spacious cabin with room for five adults and 18.5 cubic feet of cargo space (expandable to 53 cubic feet with seats folded). The Soul EV was tighter—18.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats—but still fit groceries and a stroller.

Both models had intuitive layouts. The Niro EV’s dashboard had a clean design with physical buttons for climate and audio, which I loved. The Soul EV’s quirky interior (with round vents and a floating center screen) was fun and functional. Materials were a mix of hard plastics and soft-touch surfaces—nothing luxurious, but durable and easy to clean.

Tech and Connectivity: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and More

In 2018, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were still relatively new, but Kia included them in both EVs. This was a huge selling point, as it let drivers use their favorite apps (like Spotify or Google Maps) without buying a new infotainment system. The 7-inch touchscreen in the Niro EV was responsive, and the Soul EV’s 8-inch screen had crisp graphics.

Other tech features included:

• Wireless charging (Niro EV EX Premium)
• Kia’s UVO infotainment system with voice commands
• Remote start via smartphone app (Niro EV)
• Automatic climate control

One minor gripe: The Soul EV’s base trim didn’t have a rearview camera, which was surprising in 2018. Always get the Plus trim or a higher-level package if possible.

Safety: Standard and Optional Features

Safety was a priority for Kia. Both EVs came with:

• Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning and lane keep assist
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

The Niro EV EX Premium added adaptive cruise control, which was rare in this price range. The Soul EV didn’t have adaptive cruise, but its compact size and excellent visibility made it easy to drive safely in traffic.

Both models earned 5-star ratings from the NHTSA, and the Niro EV was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. That’s peace of mind for any buyer.

Buying Tips: How to Score a Great Deal on a 2018 Kia Electric Car

Where to Look: Dealerships, Private Sellers, and Auctions

The best place to start is a certified pre-owned (CPO) program. Dealerships like Carmax or local Kia dealers often have 2018 EVs with warranties, vehicle history reports, and professional inspections. A CPO Niro EV might cost $1,000–$2,000 more than a private sale, but it’s worth it for the added peace of mind.

Private sellers can offer lower prices, but do your homework. Ask for maintenance records, check the battery’s state of health (using an OBD2 scanner or a mechanic), and take a test drive. I once bought a 2018 Soul EV from a private seller who had all the service records—and a charging station installed at home. That told me they took good care of the car.

Auctions (like Copart or Manheim) can have great deals, but they’re riskier. Many auction EVs have accident damage, so stick to “clean title” vehicles.

What to Check Before Buying

Here’s a checklist to avoid surprises:

• Battery health: Look for a battery capacity of 85% or higher. Use a tool like LeafSpy (for Kia EVs) to check.
• Charging equipment: Does it come with the original cable? Are the connectors clean?
• Service history: Were the 12V battery and cabin air filter replaced?
• Tires: EVs are heavier, so tires wear faster. Check for uneven wear.
• Software updates: Make sure the infotainment system is up to date.

Tip: Take the car on a test drive that includes highway speeds and hills. This will stress the battery and reveal any issues.

Negotiating the Price: What to Offer

Don’t be afraid to negotiate. A fair offer for a 2018 Niro EV EX with 40,000 miles might be $16,000 (if listed at $18,000). For a Soul EV Plus with 30,000 miles, try $12,500 (if listed at $14,500). Use comparable listings on sites like Autotrader or CarGurus to back up your offer.

If the seller won’t budge, ask for extras: a free charging cable, a year of free oil changes (for the 12V battery system), or a prepaid charging card.

Final Thoughts: Is a 2018 Kia Electric Car Right for You?

The Kia electric car 2018 price makes these models some of the best values in the used EV market. The Niro EV is perfect for families or anyone who wants a reliable, long-range EV for daily driving. The Soul EV is ideal for city dwellers who need a fun, affordable runabout. Both offer Kia’s legendary reliability, a strong safety record, and features that still hold up today.

Yes, they have some limitations. The Soul EV’s range is short by modern standards, and the Niro EV’s infotainment system feels dated compared to newer EVs. But for the price, they’re hard to beat. And with charging infrastructure better than ever, range anxiety is less of an issue than it was in 2018.

If you’re considering a used EV, the 2018 Kia models deserve a spot on your shortlist. They’re not flashy, but they’re practical, affordable, and backed by Kia’s excellent warranty. Whether you’re switching to electric for the first time or adding a second car to your garage, these Kias prove that going green doesn’t have to break the bank. So take one for a test drive—you might just fall in love with the quiet hum of electric power and the freedom of never visiting a gas station again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting price of the 2018 Kia electric car?

The 2018 Kia Soul EV, Kia’s primary electric model that year, had a starting MSRP of around $33,950 before federal and state incentives. Pricing varied slightly by trim level and region.

How does the 2018 Kia electric car price compare to competitors?

The 2018 Kia Soul EV was competitively priced against rivals like the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV, offering a lower entry cost than the Bolt but with a slightly shorter range than some competitors in its class.

Are there tax credits or incentives for the 2018 Kia electric car?

Yes, buyers of the 2018 Kia Soul EV were eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, with additional state and local incentives available depending on location, which could significantly reduce the effective Kia electric car 2018 price.

What features justify the 2018 Kia Soul EV’s price?

The 2018 Kia Soul EV offered a 111-mile range, DC fast-charging capability, a user-friendly infotainment system, and Kia’s strong warranty, making its price reasonable for buyers prioritizing affordability and practicality in a compact EV.

Can I find a used 2018 Kia electric car at a lower price?

Yes, used 2018 Kia Soul EVs are available at a reduced price, typically ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 depending on condition, mileage, and remaining battery warranty. Always check for battery health and service history.

Does the 2018 Kia electric car price include charging equipment?

The purchase price did not include a home charging station, but Kia offered a Level 2 charger as an optional add-on. Some dealerships provided promotional packages with charging incentives or installation assistance.