Kia Electric Cars 2022 Top Models Reviewed and Rated

The 2022 Kia electric car lineup delivers exceptional value, blending cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and bold design across top models like the EV6 and Niro EV. With fast-charging capabilities, upscale interiors, and advanced driver aids, these EVs stand out in a competitive market. Kia’s 2022 electric vehicles prove that sustainability and performance can coexist without compromise.

Key Takeaways

• Kia EV6: Top-rated 2022 model with 300-mile range and ultra-fast charging.
• Niro EV: Budget-friendly option offering 239-mile range and spacious interior.
• Charging speed: EV6 charges 10-80% in 18 minutes with 800V architecture.
• Safety first: All models feature advanced driver aids and 5-star NCAP ratings.
• Tech-forward: Dual 12.3″ screens and OTA updates standard across 2022 lineup.
• Warranty advantage: 10-year/100,000-mile battery coverage beats most competitors.

Why Kia’s 2022 Electric Cars Are Turning Heads (And Why You Should Pay Attention)

Remember when electric cars were these futuristic, expensive toys that only tech billionaires could afford? Well, times have changed—and Kia electric cars 2022 are a big reason why. Kia didn’t just dip its toes into the EV market; it dove in headfirst with a lineup that’s practical, stylish, and surprisingly affordable. Whether you’re a city commuter tired of gas prices or a family looking for a spacious ride with zero emissions, Kia’s 2022 EV offerings have something for everyone.

What really stands out is how Kia managed to blend innovation with real-world usability. No flashy gimmicks here—just solid engineering, intuitive tech, and a focus on what drivers actually need. I’ve spent time with these cars, talked to owners, and dug into the specs, and one thing’s clear: Kia isn’t playing catch-up. It’s setting the pace. In this review, we’ll break down the top models, highlight what they do well, and point out where they could improve. No hype, just honest insights—like you’re getting advice from a friend who’s already done the research.

1. The 2022 Kia Niro EV: The Practical Choice for Everyday Drivers

What Makes the Niro EV a Standout?

If you’re looking for an electric car that doesn’t scream “look at me,” the 2022 Kia Niro EV is your match. It’s not the flashiest EV on the block, but that’s part of its charm. This compact SUV is designed for real life—commuting, errands, road trips, and everything in between. The 2022 model keeps the same reliable 64 kWh battery as before, delivering a solid 253 miles of range on a full charge (EPA estimate). That’s enough to handle a week of daily driving without a sweat.

Inside, the Niro EV feels surprisingly roomy. The front seats are supportive, and the backseat has enough legroom for adults (a rare find in this class). The cargo area? 18.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which expands to 53 cubic feet when you fold the seats down. Perfect for groceries, camping gear, or even a small dog crate. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. No learning curve here—just plug and play.

Real-World Performance and Charging

The Niro EV’s 201-horsepower motor won’t win any drag races, but it’s more than enough for daily driving. It accelerates smoothly, and the ride is comfortable, even on rough pavement. The regenerative braking system lets you adjust the intensity, so you can coast like a gas car or “one-pedal drive” for maximum efficiency. I tested this on a 100-mile round trip, and the car’s range estimate was spot-on. No “range anxiety” here.

Charging is straightforward. A Level 2 charger (240 volts) will fully recharge the battery in about 9.5 hours. Need a quick top-up? A DC fast charger can get you from 10% to 80% in 45 minutes. Pro tip: Use the Kia Connect app to precondition the battery while charging—it helps maintain efficiency in cold weather.

Where It Falls Short (And How to Work Around It)

The Niro EV isn’t perfect. The rearview camera quality is just okay, and the cabin materials, while decent, don’t feel as premium as some competitors. Also, the infotainment system can lag occasionally. But these are minor quirks, not dealbreakers. If you’re willing to compromise a bit on luxury for reliability and value, the Niro EV delivers.

• Best for: Daily commuters, urban drivers, and small families
• Key strengths: Great range, spacious interior, easy-to-use tech
• Watch out for: Mediocre rear camera, occasional infotainment lag

2. The 2022 Kia EV6: The Game-Changer with Style and Substance

First Impressions: A Car That Feels Like the Future

The 2022 Kia EV6 isn’t just another electric car—it’s a statement. From the sleek, coupe-like design to the futuristic interior, this SUV turns heads. But it’s not all style over substance. The EV6 is built on Hyundai-Kia’s new E-GMP platform, which means it’s engineered from the ground up for electric performance.

The base model (EV6 Light) has a 58 kWh battery and a single motor, offering 167 horsepower and 232 miles of range. But most buyers will opt for the EV6 Wind or GT-Line with the 77.4 kWh battery. These models deliver 225 horsepower (RWD) or 320 horsepower (AWD), with 310 miles of range for RWD and 274 miles for AWD. That’s class-leading, especially for the price.

Performance That Surprises (In the Best Way)

The EV6 feels fast—really fast. The AWD version hits 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds, which is quicker than many sports sedans. But it’s not just about speed. The handling is sharp, the steering is precise, and the ride is comfortable, even on bumpy roads. The regenerative braking system is one of the best in its class, with four levels of adjustment. I found myself using “i-Pedal” mode (maximum regen) most of the time—it’s like driving a video game, but in real life.

Charging? The EV6 is a standout here. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, it can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes on a 350 kW DC fast charger. That’s faster than most EVs on the road. Even on a standard 50 kW charger, you’re looking at about 70 minutes. Pro tip: Use Electrify America’s network for the best compatibility and speeds.

Tech and Comfort: Where the EV6 Shines

Inside, the EV6 feels like a luxury car. The “panoramic curved display” (two 12.3-inch screens under one glass panel) is gorgeous and intuitive. The seats are supportive, and the cabin is quiet, even at highway speeds. The ambient lighting and minimalist design make it feel upscale without being flashy.

One clever feature: the “vehicle-to-load” (V2L) system. It lets you power devices (like a laptop, camping gear, or even another EV) using the car’s battery. I used it to charge my phone during a road trip—game-changer.

• Best for: Tech-savvy drivers, road trippers, performance enthusiasts
• Key strengths: Fast charging, great range, cutting-edge tech
• Watch out for: AWD version’s slightly lower range, limited cargo space (24.4 cubic feet)

3. The Kia EV6 GT: The Performance Beast (With a Price Tag to Match)

When “Fast” Isn’t Fast Enough

Meet the 2022 Kia EV6 GT—the wild child of the EV6 lineup. With 576 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque, it’s the most powerful Kia ever made. It rockets from 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds, putting it in the same league as the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model Y Performance. But here’s the twist: it’s still practical. You can fit four adults, a week’s worth of luggage, and still leave tire marks at every stoplight.

The GT has a 77.4 kWh battery, but the range drops to 206 miles (EPA estimate) due to the performance focus. That’s not terrible, but it’s a trade-off. If you’re planning long road trips, the regular EV6 is a better choice. But if you want a daily driver that can also dominate a track day, the GT is hard to beat.

Handling That Rewards Enthusiasts

The GT isn’t just about straight-line speed. It has a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and a rear-biased AWD system that makes it feel agile and balanced. The steering is heavier and more direct, and the ride is firmer—but not harsh. I took it on a mountain road, and it handled like a sports car, not a crossover.

The interior gets sporty touches too: bucket seats, neon green stitching, and a unique steering wheel. The sound system is upgraded, and there’s a “Drift Mode” that sends more power to the rear wheels for, well, drifting. (Yes, really.)

The Reality Check: Cost and Practicality

Let’s be honest: the EV6 GT isn’t for everyone. It starts at $61,600, which is steep compared to the regular EV6. And while the performance is thrilling, it’s overkill for most daily drives. If you’re a car enthusiast or just want to show off, go for it. But if you’re prioritizing range and value, the GT-Line or Wind trims are smarter picks.

• Best for: Performance junkies, car enthusiasts, status seekers
• Key strengths: Insane acceleration, track-ready handling, head-turning looks
• Watch out for: High price, lower range, firm ride for daily commuting

4. Kia’s Charging Network and Real-World Ownership Experience

Charging Made Easy (Most of the Time)

One of the biggest concerns with EVs is charging. Kia’s 2022 models address this head-on. The Niro EV and EV6 come with free charging credits at Electrify America stations for three years (1,000 kWh for Niro, 1,000 kWh for EV6). That’s a great perk, but the real win is compatibility.

The EV6’s 800-volt system is future-proof. It works with most fast chargers, and it’s ready for the next generation of ultra-fast stations (up to 350 kW). The Niro EV, while slower, is still reliable. I tested both on a road trip from LA to San Diego, and the EV6 charged faster, but the Niro never left me stranded.

Home Charging: What You Need to Know

Most owners will charge at home. For the Niro EV, a Level 2 charger (240V, 48A) is ideal. It’ll cost $500-$1,000 to install, but it’s worth it. The EV6 can handle higher amperage (70A), which cuts charging time to about 7 hours for a full charge. Pro tip: Install the charger in a dry, accessible spot—like a garage—to avoid weather issues.

Ownership Costs and Maintenance

EVs are cheaper to maintain than gas cars, and Kia’s 2022 models are no exception. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no exhaust systems. Just tires, brakes, and cabin air filters. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty is one of the best in the industry. I talked to a few owners, and the consensus? “It’s cheaper than my old SUV, and I never have to go to a gas station.”

One caveat: tire wear. The EV6’s low-profile tires wear faster, especially if you drive aggressively. Expect to replace them every 20,000-30,000 miles.

5. How Kia’s 2022 EVs Stack Up Against the Competition

Comparing the Niro EV to the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric

The Niro EV’s main rivals are the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. The Bolt EUV has a lower price ($27,200 after tax credits) and slightly better cargo space, but its 247-mile range and older design feel outdated. The Kona Electric has similar range (258 miles) and price, but the Niro’s interior is more spacious and refined. Verdict: The Niro EV wins for comfort and tech.

EV6 vs. Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E

The Tesla Model Y has a longer range (330 miles) and faster charging, but its interior is minimalist to the point of being spartan. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is sportier, but its infotainment system is clunky. The EV6 strikes the best balance: great range, fast charging, and a premium feel. It’s also $5,000-$10,000 cheaper than comparable trims.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Model	Range (EPA)	0-60 mph	Fast Charging (10-80%)	Starting Price
Kia Niro EV	253 miles	7.5 sec	45 min	$39,090
Kia EV6 (RWD)	310 miles	7.2 sec	18 min	$40,900
Kia EV6 GT	206 miles	3.4 sec	18 min	$61,600
Tesla Model Y	330 miles	4.8 sec	25 min	$53,490
Ford Mustang Mach-E	305 miles	4.8 sec	38 min	$43,895

Final Verdict: Which Kia Electric Car 2022 Should You Buy?

After driving all these models, I’ve got a clear favorite for each type of buyer. If you want a practical, no-nonsense EV for daily life, the 2022 Kia Niro EV is a no-brainer. It’s affordable, reliable, and packed with value. For tech lovers and road trippers, the Kia EV6 is the star. Its fast charging, great range, and futuristic design make it a standout. And if you’re a performance enthusiast with deep pockets, the EV6 GT delivers thrills you won’t find in any other Kia.

But here’s the real takeaway: Kia’s 2022 electric cars aren’t just good—they’re changing the game. They prove that EVs can be affordable, practical, and exciting all at once. Whether you’re new to electric cars or a seasoned EV owner, these models deserve a spot on your shortlist. So, what are you waiting for? Take one for a test drive—you might just fall in love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Kia electric cars 2022 models available?

The 2022 lineup features the Kia EV6, a sleek crossover with up to 310 miles of range, and the Niro EV, a practical choice offering 253 miles. Both models combine cutting-edge tech with Kia’s signature value.

How does the Kia EV6 2022 compare to other electric SUVs?

The Kia EV6 stands out with ultra-fast 800V charging (10-80% in 18 minutes) and a spacious, tech-forward interior. Its competitive pricing and 5-star safety rating make it a top contender in the electric SUV segment.

What is the range of Kia electric cars 2022 models?

The 2022 Kia EV6 delivers up to 310 miles, while the Niro EV offers 253 miles on a single charge. Both support Level 2 and DC fast charging for convenient daily use.

Are 2022 Kia electric cars eligible for tax credits?

Yes, both the EV6 and Niro EV qualify for the full $7,500 federal tax credit at launch, though eligibility may vary based on income and battery sourcing requirements.

Do 2022 Kia EVs come with warranty coverage?

Kia backs its electric cars with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty, including dedicated battery protection for added peace of mind.

What tech features do 2022 Kia electric cars offer?

Highlights include a curved dual-screen dashboard, augmented reality HUD, and advanced driver aids like Highway Driving Assist. The EV6 also features vehicle-to-load (V2L) charging for powering external devices.