Kia Electric Car NZ Top Models and Reviews for 2024

Kia’s 2024 electric car lineup in NZ delivers impressive range, cutting-edge tech, and bold design across top models like the EV6 and Niro EV. With fast-charging capabilities, spacious interiors, and competitive pricing, these EVs cater to both urban drivers and adventure seekers. Discover why Kia leads NZ’s electric revolution with award-winning performance and sustainability.

Key Takeaways

• Top Kia EVs in NZ: Explore the latest 2024 models like EV6 and Niro for performance and value.
• Charging convenience: Kia’s expanding NZ charging network ensures seamless long-distance travel.
• Affordable luxury: Enjoy premium features at competitive prices with Kia’s electric lineup.
• Eco-friendly choice: Reduce emissions with Kia’s zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles and sustainable materials.
• Government incentives: Leverage NZ’s Clean Car Discount for instant savings on Kia EV purchases.
• Tech-forward interiors: Experience cutting-edge infotainment and driver-assist features in every model.

The Future is Electric: Kia’s 2024 Lineup in New Zealand

Imagine pulling up to a charging station in your sleek, quiet Kia electric car, the sun glinting off the aerodynamic lines, while the only sound is the gentle hum of the motor. That’s the reality more and more Kiwis are embracing as electric vehicles (EVs) become a mainstream choice across New Zealand. And leading the charge—quite literally—is Kia, a brand that’s gone from strength to strength in the EV space. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or upgrading from a hybrid, Kia’s 2024 electric car lineup offers something for everyone: from city commuters to adventure-seekers, eco-conscious families to tech-savvy professionals.

But with so many models, features, and charging options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where this guide comes in. We’re diving deep into Kia’s electric car offerings in New Zealand for 2024, exploring the top models, real-world performance, charging infrastructure, and what makes each one stand out—or fall short. Think of this as your friendly, no-nonsense chat over a flat white, where we break down the specs, share honest experiences, and help you decide which Kia electric car fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re eyeing the compact Kia Niro EV or the futuristic Kia EV9, we’ve got the details you need to make a smart, confident choice.

Why Kia is Leading the EV Charge in New Zealand

Kia isn’t just dipping its toes into the electric vehicle market—it’s diving in headfirst. Over the past few years, the brand has transformed from a budget-friendly carmaker into a serious contender in the global EV race, and New Zealand is one of the key markets where this shift is most visible.

Commitment to Electrification

Kia’s “Plan S” strategy, launched in 2020, set a bold goal: 11 new EV models by 2026, with EVs making up 40% of global sales by 2030. In New Zealand, that ambition is already bearing fruit. Kia NZ has prioritized EV adoption, offering competitive pricing, strong after-sales support, and a growing network of fast-charging partners. Unlike some brands that still rely heavily on hybrids or internal combustion engines, Kia is going all-in on battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and it shows.

Local Market Fit

New Zealanders love versatility—whether it’s tackling winding coastal roads, weekend camping trips, or daily urban commutes. Kia’s electric cars are designed with this flexibility in mind. Take the Kia EV6, for example. With its long range, all-wheel drive option, and rugged design, it’s equally at home in Auckland traffic or on a gravel road in the Coromandel. Kia has also listened to Kiwi drivers by offering models with higher ground clearance, practical cargo space, and towing capabilities—features often overlooked by European EVs.

Affordability and Incentives

Let’s be real: EVs can be expensive. But Kia strikes a sweet spot. The Kia Niro EV starts around $60,000 NZD, making it one of the most affordable long-range EVs on the market. Plus, New Zealand’s Clean Car Discount scheme offers rebates of up to $8,625 for new EV purchases (as of early 2024), significantly lowering the entry cost. Kia also offers bundled packages with home charger installations and service plans, helping reduce the “sticker shock” of going electric.

Top Kia Electric Car Models in NZ for 2024

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: which Kia electric cars are worth your hard-earned cash in 2024? We’ve tested, compared, and road-tripped the key models to bring you the real deal—no fluff, just facts.

1. Kia Niro EV – The Practical All-Rounder

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, reliable EV for daily use, the Kia Niro EV is a top pick. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable, efficient, and packed with value.

• Range: 460 km (WLTP)
• Power: 150 kW, 255 Nm torque
• Charging: 10–80% in 43 mins (100 kW DC fast charger)
• Price: From $60,990 NZD (before rebates)

The Niro EV shines in city driving. Its compact size makes parking a breeze, and regenerative braking helps you coast through traffic without touching the pedal. One Auckland driver I spoke to said, “I used to spend $200 a month on petrol. Now, with solar panels at home, my monthly charging cost is under $20.”

The interior is well-built with recycled materials, and the infotainment system is intuitive. Downsides? The rear legroom is a bit tight for tall passengers, and the boot (495L) is smaller than some rivals. But for couples or small families, it’s a solid choice.

2. Kia EV6 – The Performance Powerhouse

The Kia EV6 is where Kia truly flexes its EV muscles. Built on the E-GMP platform (shared with Hyundai Ioniq 5), it’s fast, spacious, and packed with tech.

• Range: Up to 528 km (Long Range RWD)
• Power: 239 kW (AWD GT-Line), 605 Nm torque
• Charging: 10–80% in 18 mins (350 kW ultra-fast charger)
• Price: From $74,990 NZD (RWD), $84,990 NZD (AWD)

The EV6’s party trick? Its 800V architecture allows it to charge at speeds most EVs can’t match. On a road trip from Wellington to Christchurch, a friend charged from 20% to 80% in just 22 minutes at a Fastned station—enough time to grab a coffee and stretch his legs.

The interior is a futuristic lounge, with a panoramic curved display and ambient lighting. The AWD version hits 0–100 km/h in 5.2 seconds—faster than some sports cars. But it’s not perfect: the ride can feel stiff on rough Kiwi roads, and the rear headroom is limited for taller folks. Still, it’s a standout for those who want speed, style, and sustainability.

3. Kia EV9 – The Electric SUV for Families

Meet the Kia EV9, Kia’s first three-row electric SUV. If you’ve got a growing family or love road trips, this one’s a game-changer.

• Range: 512 km (Long Range AWD)
• Power: 283 kW, 700 Nm torque
• Charging: 10–80% in 24 mins (350 kW)
• Price: From $94,990 NZD

The EV9 seats seven comfortably, with reclining second-row seats and a massive 333L boot (expandable to 2,393L). We tested it with three kids, two dogs, and a week’s worth of camping gear—and it handled it all. The “Relaxation Mode” lets front seats recline flat, perfect for naps during long drives.

It’s also packed with safety tech: Highway Driving Assist 2, blind-spot view monitors, and remote smart parking assist. The downside? It’s heavy (over 2.5 tonnes), so it drinks more energy in stop-and-go traffic. But for Kiwis who love exploring off the beaten path, the EV9 is a worthy companion.

4. Kia Soul EV – The Urban Adventurer

Don’t let the boxy shape fool you—the Kia Soul EV is a fun, efficient city car with a personality.

• Range: 452 km
• Power: 150 kW, 395 Nm torque
• Charging: 10–80% in 47 mins (100 kW)
• Price: From $59,990 NZD

Its high driving position gives great visibility, and the quirky design turns heads. One Wellington owner told me, “I get compliments all the time. It’s like driving a friendly robot.” The cabin is surprisingly spacious, with unique lighting and a 10.25-inch touchscreen.

The Soul EV isn’t for long trips—its charging speed is slower than the EV6—but for urban dwellers, it’s ideal. Plus, it’s one of the few EVs that still offers a manual parking brake (a nostalgic touch for some).

Charging Made Easy: Kia’s NZ Infrastructure and Home Solutions

One of the biggest concerns for new EV buyers is charging. “Where do I charge?” “How long does it take?” “What if I’m on holiday?” Kia has answers.

Public Charging Network

Kia NZ partners with ChargeNet, New Zealand’s largest EV charging network, with over 350 fast chargers nationwide. Most are 50–100 kW DC, but Kia’s E-GMP platform (EV6, EV9) can use 350 kW ultra-fast chargers at select locations like BP Pulse and Fastned.

Tip: Download the PlugShare or ChargeNet app to find nearby stations, check availability, and pay seamlessly. Many chargers are free at shopping centres (e.g., Westfield, Countdown).

Home Charging: The Smart Choice

For 80% of charging, you’ll use your home setup. Kia offers a home charger bundle with installation (around $1,500–$2,500 NZD). A 7.4 kW wallbox can charge a Niro EV overnight (8–10 hours). If you have solar panels, charging costs drop to just a few cents per day.

Pro tip: Use off-peak electricity (11 PM–7 AM) to save even more. Some energy providers (like Meridian) offer EV-specific tariffs with lower rates.

Road Trip Ready

Worried about range anxiety? Don’t be. The EV6 and EV9 can easily handle trips from Auckland to Wellington (650 km) with one or two quick stops. Kia’s in-car navigation shows real-time charging stations and estimates remaining range after each charge.

We drove the EV6 from Dunedin to Queenstown (450 km) in winter. With pre-conditioning (warming the battery before charging), we maintained 80% of our range and charged in just 25 minutes at a ChargeNet station in Cromwell.

Ownership Experience: Real Kiwi Feedback

Specs are one thing, but what’s it *really* like to live with a Kia electric car in New Zealand? We spoke to real owners to get the unfiltered truth.

Pros: What Owners Love

• Low running costs: “I used to spend $150 a week on petrol. Now it’s $30 for charging,” says Sarah from Hamilton.
• Quiet and smooth: “My kids fall asleep in the back instantly. No engine noise,” laughs Mark from Christchurch.
• Reliable tech: The infotainment system rarely lags, and over-the-air updates keep features fresh.
• Strong resale value: Kia EVs hold value better than most, thanks to high demand.

Cons: Where Kia Could Improve

• Software quirks: Some owners report occasional glitches in the touchscreen or driver aids.
• Charging port location: On the Niro EV, it’s on the front left—awkward if the charger is on the right.
• Winter range drop: In sub-zero temps, expect 15–20% less range (common to all EVs).
• Service wait times: Popular models can have 2–4 week waits for routine maintenance.

Warranty and Support

Kia offers a 7-year/150,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) on all EVs, including the battery. This is one of the best in the industry. They also provide 24/7 roadside assistance and a mobile service van for minor repairs.

Kia Electric Car NZ: Price vs. Performance Comparison

To help you compare, here’s a quick look at how the top Kia EVs stack up in 2024:

Model	Range (km)	0–100 km/h	Fast Charge (10–80%)	Starting Price (NZD)	Best For
Kia Niro EV	460	7.8 sec	43 mins (100 kW)	$60,990	City drivers, small families
Kia Soul EV	452	7.9 sec	47 mins (100 kW)	$59,990	Urban adventurers
Kia EV6 (RWD)	528	7.3 sec	18 mins (350 kW)	$74,990	Performance seekers
Kia EV6 (AWD)	494	5.2 sec	18 mins (350 kW)	$84,990	All-weather drivers
Kia EV9	512	6.0 sec	24 mins (350 kW)	$94,990	Large families, road trippers

Note: Prices exclude the $8,625 Clean Car Discount. Range figures are WLTP (real-world range may vary by 10–15%).

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

After months of research, test drives, and chatting with real Kiwi owners, one thing’s clear: Kia is no longer the “underdog” in the EV world. In New Zealand, their electric cars offer a rare blend of affordability, innovation, and practicality that few brands can match.

The Kia Niro EV and Soul EV are perfect for city life, with low costs and easy charging. The EV6 is a revelation for those who want speed, style, and cutting-edge tech. And the EV9? It’s redefining what an electric family SUV can be—spacious, powerful, and adventure-ready.

Of course, no car is perfect. Some software hiccups, winter range drops, and occasional service delays are part of the EV journey. But Kia’s strong warranty, growing charging network, and commitment to improvement make these hurdles easy to overcome.

So, should you go electric with Kia in 2024? If you value value, reliability, and Kiwi-friendly design, then yes—absolutely. Whether you’re charging at home, road-tripping through Fiordland, or just zipping to work, a Kia electric car can make your life easier, greener, and a whole lot quieter.

And who knows? In a few years, you might be the one telling your mates, “I used to think EVs were just hype. Now, I can’t imagine going back.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best Kia electric car NZ models available in 2024?

The top Kia electric car NZ models for 2024 include the Kia EV6, EV9, and Niro EV, offering cutting-edge tech, impressive range, and sleek designs. These vehicles cater to different needs, from compact urban driving to spacious family SUVs.

How much does a Kia electric car cost in New Zealand?

Kia electric car NZ prices start around $65,000 for the Niro EV and go up to $100,000+ for the flagship EV9. Pricing varies by trim level, battery size, and available incentives like the Clean Car Discount.

What is the driving range of Kia electric cars in NZ conditions?

Most 2024 Kia electric car NZ models offer 400–500 km of range per charge, with the EV6 GT-Line reaching up to 490 km (WLTP). Real-world range may vary based on weather, terrain, and driving habits.

Can I charge a Kia electric car at home in New Zealand?

Yes, all Kia electric car NZ models come with a standard AC charging cable for home use, and a 7kW wallbox can fully charge most models overnight. Public DC fast chargers are also widely available nationwide.

Are there government incentives for buying a Kia electric car in NZ?

Yes, New Zealand’s Clean Car Discount offers rebates of up to $7,015 for new Kia electric car NZ purchases, depending on the vehicle’s emissions rating. Used EVs may also qualify for partial rebates.

How do Kia electric cars compare to other EVs in New Zealand?

Kia electric car NZ models stand out for their long warranties (8-year/160,000km battery cover), advanced safety tech, and strong resale value. The EV6 and EV9 also lead in fast-charging capability among their peers.