Kia Electric Cars 2021 UK Review Top Models and Deals

The Kia electric cars 2021 UK lineup delivers impressive value, combining long-range efficiency, cutting-edge tech, and Kia’s industry-leading 7-year warranty. Top models like the e-Niro and Soul EV offer practicality and performance, with deals making them even more appealing for eco-conscious drivers. Discover why Kia is a standout choice in the UK’s growing EV market.

Key Takeaways

• Kia e-Niro: Top choice for range and practicality in 2021 UK market.
• Kia Soul EV: Stylish, compact, and perfect for urban commuting needs.
• Long warranties: All models include 7-year/100,000-mile peace-of-mind coverage.
• Fast charging: 80% charge in under an hour with rapid chargers.
• Competitive deals: Low APR and PCP offers make ownership affordable.
• Expanding network: Kia’s UK charging partnerships boost convenience.

The Rise of Kia Electric Cars in the UK: A Game-Changer for 2021

Let’s be honest—electric cars still feel a little futuristic to most of us. But in 2021, that future arrived in the UK, and Kia was right in the thick of it. As someone who once drove a petrol hatchback and thought, “I’ll never switch to electric,” I’ve had a serious change of heart. The Kia electric cars 2021 UK lineup didn’t just make the transition easier—it made it exciting. With sleek designs, solid range, and surprisingly affordable pricing, Kia proved it wasn’t just keeping up with the EV revolution; it was leading it.

What stood out to me wasn’t just the tech or the zero-emission badge. It was the real-world usability. I remember chatting with a friend who bought a Kia e-Niro after her daily commute doubled due to remote work. “I thought I’d hate charging,” she said, “but now I plug it in at night like my phone.” That’s the kind of seamless experience Kia delivered in 2021. Whether you’re a city dweller, a family needing space, or a long-distance driver, Kia’s electric offerings were designed to fit your life—not the other way around.

Why 2021 Was a Turning Point for Kia’s Electric Lineup

2021 wasn’t just another year for Kia—it was a statement. The UK government’s push for greener transport, rising fuel prices, and growing public awareness of climate change all created the perfect storm for electric adoption. Kia, already known for reliability and value, stepped up with a focused, well-executed electric strategy. They didn’t just slap a battery on an old model; they rethought what an EV could be.

Government Incentives and Market Readiness

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: cost. Many of us worry that EVs are out of reach. But in 2021, the UK government’s Plug-in Car Grant (PICG) helped ease the burden. Buyers could get up to £2,500 off eligible electric cars, and Kia’s models—like the e-Niro and Soul EV—qualified. Combine that with lower running costs (no fuel, fewer moving parts, tax breaks), and suddenly, going electric made serious financial sense.

Plus, charging infrastructure was improving. I remember driving through Milton Keynes and seeing more public chargers than petrol stations. Apps like Zap-Map made finding chargers easier, and Kia even partnered with charging networks to offer discounted rates. It wasn’t perfect, but it was getting there—and Kia was part of the solution.

Kia’s “Plan S” Strategy: More Than Just Hype

Kia’s global “Plan S” strategy, launched in 2020, aimed to have 11 new EVs by 2026. In 2021, the UK saw the first wave of that vision. The focus? Real cars for real people, not just tech showcases. They prioritized:

• Affordability: Competitive pricing without cutting corners.
• Range: Real-world usable miles—not just lab numbers.
• Reliability: Kia’s famous 7-year/100,000-mile warranty carried over to EVs.
• Design: Cars that looked good, not like science experiments.

As a dad who needs to fit a buggy, groceries, and two kids, I appreciated that Kia didn’t assume all EV buyers were tech-savvy urbanites. They built cars for everyone.

Top Kia Electric Car Models in the UK (2021)

So, what were the stars of Kia’s 2021 electric lineup? Let’s break down the top models that made waves in the UK market—each with its own personality and purpose.

Kia e-Niro: The All-Rounder That Stole the Show

If I had to pick one word for the e-Niro, it’d be versatile. This compact SUV was everywhere in 2021—and for good reason. It offered:

• Range: Up to 282 miles (WLTP) with the 64kWh battery—more than enough for most UK drivers.
• Space: 451L boot (bigger than a Ford Focus), fold-flat rear seats, and a flat floor.
• Tech: 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia’s UVO Connect system.
• Price: From £32,445 after the PICG—competitive for its class.

My mate Sarah, who does school runs and weekend trips to the Lake District, loves hers. “I’ve driven from Manchester to Edinburgh on one charge,” she told me. “And the kids haven’t complained once.” That’s the kind of real-world performance that wins hearts.

Downside? The base 39kWh model (201-mile range) felt a bit short for longer trips, and some found the infotainment a tad slow. But the 64kWh version? Near-perfect.

Kia Soul EV: The Quirky, Urban-Focused Contender

Not everyone wants an SUV. Enter the Soul EV—a funky, boxy hatchback that turned heads in cities. It was the perfect antidote to the “all EVs look the same” problem. Highlights:

• Range: 280 miles (64kWh battery)—surprisingly good for its size.
• Style: Bold colors, two-tone roof, and a retro-futuristic vibe.
• City-friendly: Compact (4.1m long), great visibility, and easy parking.
• Price: From £33,745 after PICG—slightly pricier than the e-Niro but unique.

I drove one through London for a weekend, and it was a blast. The upright seating made it feel spacious, and the instant torque was perfect for zipping through traffic. Plus, the sound system (with mood lighting!) made rush hour feel almost fun.

Trade-off? Less boot space (303L) and rear legroom than the e-Niro. Best for singles, couples, or small families.

Kia EV6: The Game-Changer (Late 2021 Launch)

Okay, the EV6 technically launched in late 2021, but it was the buzz of the year. Built on Kia’s new E-GMP platform (shared with Hyundai Ioniq 5), it was a quantum leap:

• Range: Up to 328 miles (77.4kWh battery)—best in class.
• Charging: 10-80% in 18 minutes with 350kW ultra-rapid chargers.
• Design: Sleek, low-slung crossover with a futuristic interior (dual 12.3-inch screens).
• Performance: GT model hits 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds (if you can afford it).

My first test drive left me stunned. The cabin felt like a spaceship, and the regenerative braking (with paddle shifters!) made one-pedal driving effortless. It was pricey (from £40,945), but for tech lovers and early adopters, it was worth it.

Note: The EV6 wasn’t widely available until 2022, but its late-2021 debut set the stage for Kia’s next-gen EVs.

Real-World Performance: What UK Drivers Actually Experienced

Specs are great, but what about real life? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty—charging, range, and day-to-day usability.

Range Anxiety: Myth vs. Reality

I’ll admit it: I was skeptical. “280 miles? That’s in perfect conditions, right?” But after talking to owners and doing my own tests, I found that:

• e-Niro 64kWh: 250-260 miles in mixed UK driving (motorways, hills, cold weather).
• Soul EV: 240-250 miles—slightly less efficient due to shape.
• EV6: 290+ miles on a charge (with careful driving).

Winter range dropped by 15-20%, but pre-conditioning (warming the cabin while charging) helped. My tip? Always charge to 80% for daily use—it’s faster and better for battery health.

Charging: Where, How, and How Much?

Home charging was a no-brainer for most. A 7kW home charger (costing £500-£1,000 with grants) added 25-30 miles per hour. Overnight, you’d wake up with a full battery.

For public charging:

• Fast (22kW AC): 2-3 hours for 80%—great for shopping trips.
• Rapid (50kW DC): 40-50 minutes—ideal for motorway stops.
• Ultra-rapid (150kW+ DC): 18-25 minutes (EV6 only).

I once got stuck near Birmingham with 10% battery. Found a 50kW charger in a Tesco car park—had a coffee, charged to 70%, and was on my way. No drama.

Pro tip: Use apps like Zap-Map or PlugShare to check charger availability. And avoid “charging deserts” in rural areas.

Maintenance and Running Costs

Here’s the kicker: EVs are cheaper to run. Kia’s warranty covered the battery for 7 years/100,000 miles—no degradation worries. Annual costs for a typical UK driver:

• Electricity: £500-£800 (depending on home vs. public charging).
• Maintenance: £100-£150 (no oil changes, fewer parts).
• Tax: Zero road tax (VED).
• Insurance: Slightly higher than ICE cars (but dropping as EVs become common).

My e-Niro owner friend said her annual costs were £1,200—half what she spent on her old diesel SUV. “It’s like getting a free car,” she joked.

Deals, Incentives, and How to Get the Best Value in 2021

Let’s talk money. How could you make the switch to a Kia EV without breaking the bank?

Government Grants and Tax Breaks

The UK’s Plug-in Car Grant (PICG) shaved £2,500 off eligible models (e-Niro, Soul EV, EV6). But that wasn’t all:

• Company car tax: 1% Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) rate in 2021—huge savings for business users.
• Home charger grant: £350 off a 7kW charger (OZEV grant).
• Exemptions: No congestion charge in London, no ULEZ fees.

A friend of mine, a company director, saved £4,000 in BIK tax by switching to an e-Niro. “My accountant called it a ‘no-brainer,’” he said.

Kia’s Own Offers and Financing

Kia UK didn’t just rely on government help. In 2021, they offered:

• 0% APR financing: On select models (e.g., e-Niro 39kWh).
• Free charging credits: Up to £500 with BP Pulse or other networks.
• Trade-in bonuses: Extra £1,000 for old diesel/petrol cars.
• Leasing deals: From £299/month (e.g., Soul EV).

I helped my sister lease a Soul EV for £329/month (with £3,000 deposit). She got free charging credits and a home charger—total value over £1,000.

Buying Used: The Smart Move?

By late 2021, the first wave of Kia EVs hit the used market. A 2019-2020 e-Niro with 20,000 miles could be had for £25,000—£10,000 less than new. And the 7-year warranty meant peace of mind.

Tip: Check battery health reports (Kia dealers provide them). Avoid cars with rapid DC charging abuse (look for high “kWh charged” stats).

Kia vs. the Competition: How Did They Stack Up?

Kia wasn’t alone in the 2021 EV race. Let’s see how they fared against rivals.

Kia e-Niro vs. Hyundai Kona Electric

Sister cars, but different vibes. The Kona had similar range (259 miles) and price (£32,000). But the e-Niro won on:

• Space: 150L bigger boot.
• Comfort: Softer ride, quieter cabin.
• Warranty: Kia’s 7-year vs. Hyundai’s 5-year.

My neighbor chose the e-Niro over the Kona for his growing family. “I need the space,” he said.

Kia Soul EV vs. Nissan Leaf

The Leaf was the UK’s best-selling EV for years, but the Soul EV offered more:

• Range: 280 vs. 239 miles (Leaf e+).
• Style: The Leaf looked dated; the Soul turned heads.
• Tech: Better infotainment and connectivity.

But the Leaf had more charging stations (thanks to Nissan’s CHAdeMO network). A toss-up, but the Soul felt more modern.

Kia EV6 vs. Tesla Model Y

The EV6 was a bold move—going head-to-head with Tesla. While the Model Y had more brand hype, the EV6 offered:

• Charging speed: Faster DC charging (350kW vs. 250kW).
• Warranty: 7 years vs. Tesla’s 4/5 years.
• Price: £40k vs. £55k for a comparable Model Y.

For UK buyers who wanted cutting-edge tech without the Tesla premium, the EV6 was a winner.

The Verdict: Were Kia’s 2021 EVs Worth It?

After months of research, test drives, and talking to real owners, my answer is a resounding yes. The Kia electric cars 2021 UK lineup delivered on every front: practicality, value, and innovation. The e-Niro became the default choice for families, the Soul EV charmed city drivers, and the EV6 showed Kia could compete with the best in the world.

Were there flaws? Sure. The infotainment could be snappier, some charging networks were unreliable, and winter range drops were real. But Kia’s strengths far outweighed the weaknesses. Their 7-year warranty alone was a game-changer—no other brand offered that kind of confidence.

Looking back, 2021 was the year Kia proved EVs weren’t just for early adopters. They were for everyone—from budget-conscious buyers to tech enthusiasts. And with the EV6 paving the way for a new generation, Kia’s electric future looks brighter than ever.

If you’re on the fence, take the leap. Whether you’re saving money on fuel, reducing your carbon footprint, or just enjoying a smoother drive, a Kia EV in 2021 was one of the best decisions you could make. As my friend Sarah put it: “I’ll never go back to petrol.” And honestly? Neither will I.

Model	Battery (kWh)	Range (WLTP)	0-60mph	Price (after PICG)
Kia e-Niro 39kWh	39	201 miles	7.8s	£30,445
Kia e-Niro 64kWh	64	282 miles	7.5s	£32,445
Kia Soul EV	64	280 miles	7.9s	£33,745
Kia EV6 (Standard)	77.4	328 miles	5.2s	£40,945
Kia EV6 GT	77.4	316 miles	3.5s	£61,445

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best Kia electric cars available in the UK in 2021?

The top Kia electric cars in the UK for 2021 include the **Kia e-Niro** and **Kia Soul EV**, both praised for their long ranges, practicality, and value. The e-Niro, in particular, stands out with up to 282 miles of range (WLTP) and a well-equipped interior.

How does the Kia e-Niro 2021 compare to other electric cars in its price range?

The 2021 Kia e-Niro competes strongly with rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Nissan Leaf, offering more cargo space and a longer range at a similar price point. Its 7-year warranty also gives it an edge over many competitors in the UK market.

Are there any deals or incentives for Kia electric cars in the UK?

Yes, UK buyers can benefit from the Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG), which reduces the upfront cost of eligible Kia electric cars like the e-Niro and Soul EV. Dealerships often offer additional discounts, low-rate financing, or free home charger installations.

What is the charging time for Kia electric cars 2021 models?

The Kia e-Niro and Soul EV can charge from 10% to 80% in about 45-50 minutes using a 100kW rapid charger. A full charge at home (7.2kW AC) takes around 9-10 hours, ideal for overnight charging.

Do Kia electric cars 2021 come with a warranty in the UK?

All Kia electric cars in the UK come with a **7-year/100,000-mile warranty**, covering the battery and electric drivetrain. This industry-leading warranty ensures peace of mind for long-term ownership.

Is the Kia Soul EV 2021 a practical family car in the UK?

Yes, the 2021 Kia Soul EV offers ample interior space, a 315-liter boot, and a 280-mile range (WLTP), making it a practical choice for families. Its compact SUV design and smooth ride also suit urban and rural driving.