Kia Electric Car Niro 2018 Review Performance and Features Unveiled

The 2018 Kia Niro EV delivers an impressive blend of efficiency and practicality, offering a 239-mile range on a single charge—ideal for eco-conscious drivers seeking real-world usability. With 201 horsepower, a responsive electric motor, and a well-tuned chassis, it balances spirited performance with smooth, quiet comfort, making it a standout in the compact electric SUV segment.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient performance: Delivers 104 MPGe, ideal for daily commutes.
• Spacious interior: Offers ample cargo and passenger space for its class.
• Regenerative braking: Enhances battery life and driving smoothness.
• Advanced safety: Includes lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive cost with federal tax incentives available.
• User-friendly tech: Features intuitive infotainment and smartphone integration.

Why the 2018 Kia Electric Car Niro Stands Out in a Crowded Market

Let’s be honest: shopping for an electric car can feel like navigating a maze. You’ve got flashy Teslas, futuristic Polestars, and a growing list of budget-friendly options—but what if you want something that’s just right? That’s where the Kia Electric Car Niro 2018 enters the scene. It doesn’t scream for attention like some EVs, but it quietly delivers on what most of us actually need: practicality, efficiency, and a dash of style without breaking the bank.

I remember test-driving the 2018 Kia Niro EV for the first time. I wasn’t expecting much—just another compact crossover with a plug. But after a week behind the wheel, I was pleasantly surprised. It felt like Kia had listened to real-world drivers. The ride was smooth, the cabin was quiet, and the tech felt intuitive, not overwhelming. For someone who just wants to get from point A to B without range anxiety or a steep learning curve, the 2018 Niro EV is a breath of fresh air. Whether you’re a city dweller, a suburban commuter, or a weekend road-tripper, this car checks a lot of boxes. And in this review, I’ll walk you through exactly what makes the Kia Electric Car Niro 2018 worth a second look—no fluff, just real talk.

Design and Exterior: Practicality Meets Modern Flair

First Impressions: Clean, Confident, and Compact

The 2018 Kia Niro EV isn’t trying to be a spaceship or a luxury limo. It’s a compact crossover with clean lines and a no-nonsense stance. From the front, the signature “tiger nose” grille is still there, but it’s been adapted for electric efficiency—closed off to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics. The LED headlights give it a modern edge, and the blue accents (a subtle nod to its electric nature) add just the right amount of personality without going overboard.

At 171.5 inches long, it’s shorter than a Honda CR-V but longer than a Toyota Prius. That makes it perfect for tight city parking spots or squeezing into a crowded garage. I once parallel parked it between a delivery van and a Tesla Model 3—no sweat. The 17-inch alloy wheels (standard on the base model) look sharp and contribute to the car’s balanced proportions.

Functional Details That Matter

What really stands out are the small but thoughtful touches. The flush-mounted door handles reduce wind noise and improve aerodynamics. The rear spoiler isn’t just for looks—it helps manage airflow and boosts efficiency. And the charging port? It’s neatly integrated into the front grille, so you don’t have to awkwardly plug in the side like some EVs. A small win, but one that makes daily charging feel less like a chore.

One thing to note: the Niro EV shares its platform with the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, so it doesn’t have a “frunk” (front trunk). That means all your charging cables and accessories live in the rear cargo area. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you’re used to Teslas or the Ford Mustang Mach-E, you might miss that extra storage.

Color Options and Personalization

Kia offered the 2018 Niro EV in a range of colors that lean toward the sophisticated side: Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, and Runway Red are the standout choices. I went with the Runway Red—it’s vibrant without being loud, and it hides dirt surprisingly well. The interior is available in black or gray cloth or leather, depending on the trim. The black interior with blue stitching is a nice touch, echoing the EV theme without feeling gimmicky.

Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth, Efficient, and Surprising

Powertrain and Range: Real-World Numbers

The Kia Electric Car Niro 2018 packs a 201-horsepower electric motor powered by a 64 kWh lithium-ion battery. That translates to a range of **239 miles** on a full charge (EPA-estimated). In real-world driving—mixing city streets, highways, and a few hills—I averaged about 215 miles. That’s more than enough for most daily commutes (the average American drives under 40 miles a day), and it gives you breathing room for errands, school runs, or even a weekend trip.

One thing I appreciated: the Niro EV doesn’t suffer from “range anxiety” as much as smaller EVs. I once drove from Brooklyn to upstate New York (about 150 miles) with 40% battery left—plenty of cushion. And unlike some EVs that lose efficiency in cold weather, the Niro’s battery management system kept performance steady even during a chilly December week.

Acceleration and Handling: More Fun Than You’d Think

With 291 lb-ft of torque, the Niro EV zips from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.8 seconds. That’s not Tesla-fast, but it’s more than enough for merging onto highways or darting through traffic. The power delivery is smooth and linear—no jerky throttle response. I found myself using the “Eco” mode most of the time, but switching to “Sport” mode (via a button on the center console) gave a noticeable boost in responsiveness, perfect for overtaking slower trucks.

The handling is where the Niro really shines. It’s not a sports car, but the low center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery) makes it feel planted and stable. The steering is light but precise, and the suspension soaks up bumps well. On a rainy day, I took a sharp turn on a wet highway—no skidding, no drama. The regenerative braking system also adds to the driving experience. You can adjust it via steering-wheel paddles, from light coasting to one-pedal driving. I used the highest setting in city traffic, which let me glide to stops without touching the brake pedal. It took a few days to get used to, but once I did, it felt natural.

Charging Options: Flexibility Matters

Here’s where the 2018 Niro EV really wins points. It supports both Level 2 (240V) and DC fast charging. On a Level 2 charger, a full charge takes about 9.5 hours—perfect for overnight charging at home. But if you’re on the go, the DC fast charger can juice up the battery from 10% to 80% in just **45 minutes**. I used this once at a shopping mall while grabbing lunch. By the time I was done, the car had gained about 150 miles of range.

Pro tip: Use the Kia app to pre-condition the cabin while the car is plugged in. In winter, this means you step into a warm car instead of shivering while the heater warms up. In summer, it cools the interior before you get in. A small luxury, but one that makes a big difference in comfort.

Interior and Comfort: A Smart, Spacious Cabin

Seating and Space: Roomier Than It Looks

Don’t let the compact exterior fool you—the Niro EV’s interior is surprisingly roomy. Front seats are supportive and offer good visibility. I’m 6 feet tall, and I had plenty of head and legroom. The rear seats are a bit tighter, but two average-sized adults can sit comfortably for short trips. Three adults? Possible, but not ideal for long drives.

The rear seats fold flat in a 60/40 split, expanding the cargo space from 18.5 cubic feet (with seats up) to **53 cubic feet** (seats down). I fit a full-size suitcase, a stroller, and a week’s worth of groceries without a problem. The cargo floor is adjustable—raise it for a flat loading surface or lower it for more depth. A thoughtful touch for weekend adventures.

Materials and Build Quality: Solid, Not Luxe

The cabin uses a mix of soft-touch plastics, fabric, and a few hard plastics (mostly on lower door panels). It’s not as plush as a BMW or Volvo, but it’s well put together. I didn’t notice any creaks or rattles after 5,000 miles of driving. The seats are covered in durable cloth on the base model, with leather available on higher trims. The leather is nice but not buttery-soft—think “practical luxury,” not “first-class lounge.”

One standout feature: the panoramic sunroof (available on higher trims). It floods the cabin with natural light and makes the interior feel more open. But be warned—on hot summer days, it can turn the car into a greenhouse unless you use the retractable shade.

Tech and Infotainment: Intuitive and Up-to-Date

The 2018 Niro EV comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system (7-inch on base models). It runs Kia’s UVO system, which is clean, responsive, and easy to navigate. I connected my iPhone via Apple CarPlay (standard) and used Spotify, Waze, and phone calls seamlessly. Android Auto? Not in 2018, but Kia added it in later models—something to keep in mind if you’re an Android user.

The digital instrument cluster (on higher trims) is a nice upgrade. It shows speed, battery level, and navigation directions in a crisp, modern layout. The standard analog gauges are functional but feel a bit dated. Audio quality from the standard 6-speaker system is decent—clear vocals, but bass is lacking. The optional 8-speaker Harman Kardon system (available on EX and higher trims) is worth the upgrade if you’re an audiophile.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind Built In

Standard and Optional Safety Features

The 2018 Kia Niro EV earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, thanks to strong crash test results and a suite of standard safety tech. Every model comes with:

• Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Driver attention monitor (alerts you if you’re drowsy)
• Rearview camera (standard)
• Blind-spot monitoring (on EX and higher trims)
• Rear cross-traffic alert (on EX and higher)

The automatic emergency braking system worked flawlessly during my test. Once, a cyclist swerved in front of me at an intersection. The car beeped, flashed a warning, and braked before I could react. Saved me from a potential accident—and a lawsuit.

Adaptive Cruise Control: A Game-Changer for Highways

Available on the top-tier SX trim, adaptive cruise control (ACC) with stop-and-go capability made long drives much less stressful. I used it on a 200-mile trip and barely touched the pedals. The system keeps a safe distance from the car ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic. It’s not as refined as Tesla’s Autopilot, but it’s reliable and easy to use.

One caveat: the lane-keeping assist can feel a bit aggressive. It gently nudges the car back into the lane if you drift, but it sometimes overcorrects on curvy roads. I turned it off on winding backroads and used it only on highways.

Cost, Value, and Ownership: Is It Worth the Price?

Pricing and Trim Levels: What You Get for Your Money

The 2018 Kia Niro EV launched with two trims: the base **EX** (starting at $38,500) and the top-tier **SX** ($44,000). Both qualify for the federal EV tax credit of $7,500 (at the time), bringing the effective price down to $31,000 and $36,500, respectively. Add state incentives (like California’s $2,000 rebate), and the value proposition gets even stronger.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what each trim offers:

Trim	Key Features	Price (Before Incentives)
EX	8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, cloth seats, 17-inch wheels, DC fast charging, blind-spot monitoring	$38,500
SX	Leather seats, panoramic sunroof, Harman Kardon audio, heated/ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera	$44,000

For most buyers, the EX trim is the sweet spot. It includes all the essential EV features without the premium price tag. The SX adds luxury touches but pushes the car into near-luxury territory.

Maintenance and Reliability: Low Costs, High Confidence

One of the biggest perks of owning the Kia Electric Car Niro 2018 is the low maintenance cost. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no transmission fluid—just tire rotations, brake inspections, and cabin air filter changes. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (including the battery) is one of the best in the industry. I’ve heard stories of Niro owners hitting 150,000 miles with no major issues.

Charging at home? A typical overnight charge costs about $6–$8 (depending on local electricity rates). That’s less than half the cost of a gas-powered car for the same distance. And if you have solar panels, you can drive nearly for free.

Resale Value and Market Perception

EVs from 2018 are starting to hit the used market, and the Niro EV holds its value better than most. On average, a 2018 model with 40,000 miles sells for about $22,000–$25,000—a 40–50% depreciation rate, which is solid for an EV of that era. It’s not a Tesla in terms of resale, but it’s far more predictable than some early EVs that lost value quickly.

The Verdict: Who Should Consider the 2018 Kia Niro EV?

After spending weeks with the Kia Electric Car Niro 2018, I can confidently say it’s one of the most underrated EVs of its time. It’s not flashy, not the fastest, and not the most tech-heavy—but it’s reliable, practical, and thoughtfully designed. If you’re a first-time EV buyer, this car eases you into electric driving without overwhelming you. If you’re downsizing from a larger SUV, you’ll appreciate the cargo space and smooth ride. And if you’re just tired of gas prices? The Niro EV saves you money every time you charge.

Is it perfect? No. The infotainment lacks Android Auto, the cabin isn’t luxury-grade, and the fast-charging network (though growing) still has gaps. But for what it is—a well-rounded, no-nonsense electric crossover—the 2018 Niro EV delivers where it counts. It’s the kind of car that grows on you. At first, you might overlook it. But after a few weeks, you realize it’s doing everything you need, quietly and efficiently.

So if you’re in the market for a used EV that won’t break the bank, offers real-world range, and comes with Kia’s stellar warranty, the 2018 Kia Electric Car Niro deserves a spot on your shortlist. It’s not the future of driving—it’s the present, done right.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the Kia Electric Car Niro 2018?

The 2018 Kia Niro EV offers an EPA-estimated range of 239 miles on a full charge, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and short road trips. This range is competitive for its class and era of electric vehicles.

How fast does the 2018 Kia Niro EV charge?

The 2018 Kia Electric Car Niro supports DC fast charging, reaching 80% charge in about 75 minutes. With a Level 2 charger, it takes roughly 9.5 hours to fully recharge the battery.

What are the standout features of the 2018 Kia Niro EV?

The 2018 Kia Electric Car Niro includes advanced tech like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. Its spacious interior and cargo room also set it apart from rivals.

Is the Kia Niro 2018 a reliable electric car?

Yes, the 2018 Kia Niro EV is praised for its reliability, backed by Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Owners report minimal issues, thanks to its well-tested battery and drivetrain.

How does the 2018 Kia Niro EV perform in terms of power?

The 2018 Niro EV delivers 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque, offering smooth, responsive acceleration ideal for city and highway driving. Its electric motor ensures quiet, efficient performance.

Does the 2018 Kia Niro EV have regenerative braking?

Yes, the 2018 Kia Electric Car Niro features adjustable regenerative braking, allowing drivers to maximize efficiency and even enable one-pedal driving in certain modes. This system helps recover energy while slowing the vehicle.