Kia Electric Models Kelley Blue Book – Top Picks Revealed

Kia’s electric models dominate Kelley Blue Book’s top picks, earning high marks for innovation, value, and range. From the versatile EV6 to the spacious EV9, Kia’s EVs deliver cutting-edge tech and competitive pricing, making them standout choices in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market. Trusted KBB expert reviews confirm Kia’s leadership in affordable, high-performance electric mobility.

Key Takeaways

• Kia EV6: Top-rated for range, tech, and value in 2024.
• Kia Niro EV: Best budget-friendly pick with solid efficiency.
• Charging speed: Kia EVs lead with ultra-fast DC charging.
• Warranty coverage: Class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.
• KBB verdict: Kia offers best overall value among mass-market EVs.

Why Kia Electric Models Are Turning Heads in 2024

Let’s be honest: the electric vehicle (EV) market can feel like a maze. One day, Tesla dominates the headlines. The next, legacy automakers like Kia are stealing the spotlight with affordable, tech-packed electric models that actually make sense for everyday drivers. If you’ve been eyeing a Kia EV but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. That’s where Kelley Blue Book (KBB) comes in. As a trusted resource for vehicle valuations and expert reviews, KBB has become a go-to for buyers who want honest, data-driven insights—not just flashy ads.

Over the past few years, Kia has transformed from a “budget brand” into a serious EV contender. Their lineup now includes sleek sedans, spacious SUVs, and even a minivan (yes, really) that prove you don’t need to sacrifice practicality for zero-emission driving. In this guide, we’ll explore the top Kia electric models according to Kelley Blue Book, break down what makes them stand out, and share real-world tips to help you pick the right one for your lifestyle. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or a seasoned green driver, there’s something here for you.

How Kelley Blue Book Evaluates Kia Electric Cars

What Makes KBB Reviews Unique?

Before we dive into the models, let’s talk about why Kelley Blue Book is such a big deal in the EV world. KBB isn’t just about pricing. Their team of automotive experts tests vehicles in real-world conditions—not just on paper. They evaluate everything from driving range and charging speed to cabin comfort and tech features. Think of them as the “Consumer Reports” of the auto industry, but with a knack for explaining complex specs in plain English.

For EVs specifically, KBB focuses on three key areas:

• Value: How does the price compare to competitors with similar features?
• Real-World Range: Does the advertised miles-per-charge hold up in cold weather or highway driving?
• Ownership Experience: Are there quirks in charging, software, or maintenance that buyers should know about?

Fun fact: KBB’s 2023 “Best Electric SUV” award went to a Kia—proof that their electric models aren’t just good; they’re award-winning.

KBB’s Rating System: What the Numbers Mean

KBB uses a 1–10 scale for vehicle ratings, with 8+ considered “excellent.” Here’s how Kia’s electric models typically stack up:

• 9–10: Industry-leading in its class (e.g., Kia EV9)
• 7–8: Strong contender with minor trade-offs (e.g., Kia Niro EV)

<

• Below 7: Falls short in key areas (rare for recent Kia EVs)

Pro tip: Always check KBB’s “Expert Rating” and “Consumer Rating.” The latter reveals what real owners love—or hate—about their Kia EVs.

Top 3 Kia Electric Models Rated by Kelley Blue Book

1. Kia EV9: The Family-Friendly 3-Row Electric SUV

If you’ve ever tried to fit three kids, a dog, and a week’s worth of groceries into a compact EV, you’ll appreciate the Kia EV9. KBB calls it “a game-changer for large families,” praising its spacious interior, smooth ride, and surprising agility for a 7-seater. Here’s what stands out:

• Range: Up to 304 miles (RWD model) – enough for most road trips.
• Charging: 10–80% in ~24 minutes with a 350kW DC fast charger (ideal for highway stops).
• Tech: Dual 12.3-inch screens, over-the-air updates, and a “Digital Key” that lets you use your phone as a key.

The catch? The EV9’s third-row seats are best for kids or shorter adults. And while the base model starts at $54,900, the fully loaded GT-Line trim pushes $75,000—competitive but not “cheap.”

Real-world example: A KBB reviewer drove the EV9 from Seattle to Portland (150 miles) on a single charge, even with the AC running and three passengers. “No range anxiety here,” they wrote.

2. Kia EV6: The Sporty, Tech-Forward Crossover

The Kia EV6 is what happens when a carmaker merges performance with practicality. KBB gave it an 8.8/10, calling it “one of the most well-rounded EVs under $60,000.” Key highlights:

• Range: 310 miles (RWD) or 282 miles (AWD) – best-in-class for its size.
• Performance: The GT trim hits 60 mph in 3.4 seconds (yes, really).
• Charging: Uses the same 800V architecture as Hyundai and Porsche EVs, meaning faster charging than most rivals.

But it’s not perfect. The EV6’s sloping roofline cuts into rear headroom, and the minimalist interior (with few physical buttons) can frustrate tech-averse drivers.

Pro tip: If you live in a cold climate, opt for the AWD model. The dual motors provide better traction on snowy roads, and the heat pump (standard on higher trims) preserves battery range in winter.

3. Kia Niro EV: The Budget-Friendly City Driver

Not everyone needs a $70,000 SUV. For urban commuters or first-time EV buyers, the Kia Niro EV is a standout. Priced from $39,600, it’s one of the most affordable new EVs with a 253-mile range. KBB rates it 8.1/10, citing:

• Efficiency: 113 MPGe (city) – great for stop-and-go traffic.
• Size: Compact enough for tight parking spots but roomy inside.
• Warranty: Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty (longer than most rivals).

The trade-off? The Niro EV’s charging speed tops out at 85kW, so it’s not ideal for long road trips. But for daily commutes under 50 miles, it’s a steal.

Anecdote: A KBB tester in Chicago drove the Niro EV for a week, charging overnight at home. “I saved $120 on gas compared to my old SUV,” they noted.

What KBB’s Data Tells Us About Kia EV Ownership

Reliability: Do Kia Electric Cars Hold Up?

Here’s the good news: Kia’s EV reliability scores are above average. KBB’s 2023 dependability study ranked Kia 4th out of 32 brands, with electric models showing fewer issues than gas-powered ones. Common praises include:

• Minimal software bugs (unlike early Teslas).
• Durable battery systems (Kia offers free battery health checks for 10 years).
• Fewer recalls than competitors like Ford and Chevrolet.

But no car is flawless. Some Niro EV owners report glitches with the infotainment system, and the EV9’s large touchscreen can be distracting while driving. Always test-drive before buying.

Total Cost of Ownership: Beyond the Sticker Price

EVs aren’t just cheaper to fuel—they’re often cheaper to own long-term. Here’s how Kia’s electric models compare (based on KBB’s 5-year cost data):

• Maintenance: $1,200 (EV9) vs. $2,100 (Toyota Highlander Hybrid).
• Insurance: ~10% higher than gas cars (due to battery replacement costs).
• Depreciation: Kia EVs lose ~45% of value in 3 years (better than the industry average of 50%).

Money-saving tip: Check for federal/state EV tax credits. As of 2024, the EV6 and EV9 qualify for a $7,500 federal credit, dropping their effective price to $35,000 and $47,400, respectively.

Charging & Range: What KBB Testers Found in Real-World Use

How Far Can You Really Go on a Charge?

KBB’s testers found that most Kia EVs deliver close to their EPA-estimated range—but conditions matter. Here’s the reality:

• Highway driving: Expect 15–20% less range than city driving (due to higher speeds).
• Cold weather: Below 32°F, range drops by 30–40%. The EV6’s heat pump helps, but not fully.
• Fast charging: The EV9 and EV6 charge faster than the Niro EV, but all three beat the industry average.

Example: A KBB reviewer drove the EV6 from Denver to Boulder (30 miles) in -5°F weather. The car started with 282 miles of range but arrived with only 180 miles left. “Plan extra charging stops in winter,” they advised.

Charging Networks: Where and How to Power Up

Kia EVs use the CCS (Combined Charging System) standard, meaning they work with most public chargers. But KBB testers recommend:

• Home charging: A Level 2 charger (240V) adds ~25 miles of range per hour—ideal for overnight.
• Public networks: Use Electrify America (Kia’s partner) for reliable fast charging. Avoid older chargers with 50kW speeds.
• Road trips: The EV9’s 300+ mile range means fewer stops. Use the built-in navigation to find chargers.

Pro tip: Download the Kia Connect app. It shows real-time charger availability and lets you pre-heat the cabin while charging (saving battery).

How to Choose the Right Kia Electric Model for You

Ask Yourself These 5 Questions

Before you sign on the dotted line, ask:

1. How much range do I need? If you drive <25 miles/day, the Niro EV is sufficient. For road trips, go EV9 or EV6.
2. How many passengers? The EV9 seats 7; the EV6 and Niro EV seat 5 (with less legroom).
3. What’s my budget? The Niro EV is the cheapest. The EV9 is a luxury SUV with a price to match.
4. Do I have home charging? If not, prioritize fast-charging capability (EV9/EV6 over Niro EV).
5. What’s my climate? Cold-weather drivers should consider AWD and heat pump options.

Test Drive Checklist: What to Look For

KBB recommends testing these features:

• Regenerative braking: Can you adjust the intensity? (The EV6 has a “i-Pedal” mode for one-pedal driving.)
• Infotainment: Is the touchscreen responsive? Are menus intuitive?
• Ride comfort: Do you feel every bump (EV6) or is it smooth (EV9)?
• Visibility: The Niro EV’s high seating position helps in traffic.

Real-world tip: Take a test drive during rush hour. You’ll learn more about real-world range and charging anxiety than any brochure.

Kia Electric Models: KBB Data Snapshot

Here’s a quick look at how Kia’s top EVs compare, based on KBB’s 2024 ratings:

Model	KBB Rating	Range (mi)	Starting Price	Best For	Key Limitation
EV9	9.2/10	304	$54,900	Families, road trips	Expensive options
EV6	8.8/10	310	$42,600	Performance, tech lovers	Small rear headroom
Niro EV	8.1/10	253	$39,600	City drivers, budget buyers	Slow charging

Note: Prices before tax credits. Range varies by trim and conditions.

The Bottom Line: Should You Buy a Kia EV?

Let’s cut to the chase: Kia’s electric models are among the best values in the EV market. They’re not perfect—no car is—but they strike an impressive balance between price, range, and features. The Kelley Blue Book team consistently ranks them above rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4, and for good reason: Kia listens to real drivers, not just engineers.

If you’re still on the fence, here’s the takeaway:

• Choose the EV9 if you need space, luxury, and long-range capability.
• Pick the EV6 if you want sporty performance and cutting-edge tech.
• Go with the Niro EV if you want an affordable, reliable city car.

And remember: the best EV for you is the one that fits your life, not the one with the longest spec sheet. So grab the keys, take a test drive, and see how a Kia electric car feels on your daily commute. With KBB’s data and these tips, you’ll be ready to make a smart, confident choice—no buyer’s remorse required. After all, the future of driving isn’t just electric. It’s Kia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Kia electric models according to Kelley Blue Book?

Kelley Blue Book highlights the Kia EV6 and Niro EV as top picks for their range, tech, and value. Both models consistently earn high ratings for performance and practicality in their segments.

How does the Kia EV6 compare to other electric cars in its price range?

The Kia EV6 stands out with a 300+ mile range, ultra-fast charging, and a premium interior. Kelley Blue Book praises it for offering luxury-level features at a competitive price point.

What is the average range of Kia electric models listed in Kelley Blue Book?

Most Kia electric models, like the EV6 (310 miles) and Niro EV (253 miles), offer ranges above 250 miles per charge. Exact numbers vary by trim and driving conditions, per Kelley Blue Book testing.

Are Kia electric cars reliable, based on Kelley Blue Book reviews?

Yes, Kia electric models score well in reliability thanks to strong warranties and solid build quality. KBB notes their 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty adds extra peace of mind.

Which Kia electric car is best for families, per Kelley Blue Book?

The Kia EV6 is a top family choice with spacious seating, advanced safety tech, and ample cargo space. KBB also recommends the Niro EV for its compact size and user-friendly features.

Where can I find pricing and deals on Kia electric models in Kelley Blue Book?

KBB provides up-to-date fair purchase prices, lease deals, and incentives for Kia electric cars. Their “Kia Electric Models Kelley Blue Book” guide includes local pricing and expert negotiation tips.