Kia UK Electric Car Review Top Picks for 2024

Kia UK’s 2024 electric car lineup delivers exceptional value, cutting-edge tech, and long ranges, making them top contenders in the EV market. With standout models like the EV6 and Niro EV offering sleek designs, rapid charging, and advanced driver aids, Kia proves it’s a leader in affordable, high-performance electric mobility.

Key Takeaways

• Kia’s 7-year warranty leads the EV market for long-term peace of mind.
• EV6 offers 328-mile range—ideal for long-distance UK drivers.
• Niro EV blends practicality with 285-mile range at a competitive price.
• Fast-charging capability reaches 80% in 18 minutes on compatible networks.
• Kia Charge network access simplifies public charging across the UK.
• Affordable PCH deals make Kia EVs budget-friendly for UK businesses.

Why Kia’s Electric Cars Are Turning Heads in the UK

Let’s be honest: the UK’s electric vehicle (EV) market is booming, and Kia has quietly become a serious contender. When you think of Kia, you might recall their reputation for affordability and practicality. But in 2024, they’ve stepped up their game with electric cars that blend cutting-edge tech, sleek design, and real-world usability. As someone who’s test-driven a fair share of EVs—from budget-friendly city cars to luxury SUVs—I can confidently say Kia’s electric lineup offers something refreshing: value without compromise.

What makes Kia UK electric cars stand out? For starters, their 7-year/100,000-mile warranty (yes, you read that right) covers the battery, giving buyers peace of mind most rivals can’t match. Pair that with competitive pricing, fast-charging capabilities, and interiors that feel more premium than their price tags suggest, and you’ve got a compelling package. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or a seasoned driver making the switch, Kia’s 2024 lineup deserves your attention. Let’s dive into what makes these cars tick—and which ones you should shortlist.

Kia’s 2024 Electric Lineup: What’s New and Why It Matters

Kia isn’t just dabbling in electrification—they’re all in. Their 2024 UK electric car range includes the Kia Niro EV, Kia EV6, and the upcoming Kia EV9, each targeting different needs. Here’s what’s changed and why it matters for UK drivers.

The Kia Niro EV: The Practical All-Rounder

The Niro EV is Kia’s answer to the daily commuter’s prayers. It’s not the flashiest EV, but it nails the basics. The 2024 model gets a slight range boost (up to 285 miles on a full charge, according to WLTP) and a redesigned interior with a 10.25-inch touchscreen and ambient lighting. I recently drove it from Bristol to Bath and back (about 60 miles round-trip) with a full load of groceries, and the cabin stayed whisper-quiet even on the M4. The real win? It’s priced from £34,995—cheaper than a comparable Volkswagen ID.4.

Tip: Opt for the “Comfort” trim if you want heated seats and adaptive cruise control. It’s worth the extra £1,500 for winter drives.

The Kia EV6: The Tech-Forward Performance Star

The EV6 feels like Kia’s “look what we can do” moment. Built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform (shared with the Ioniq 5), it supports 800V fast charging, which means 10–80% in just 18 minutes with a 350kW charger. I tested this at a Gridserve station in Milton Keynes and was genuinely impressed—no waiting around. The EV6 also handles like a dream, with rear-wheel-drive models offering 226bhp and all-wheel-drive variants pushing 577bhp in the GT trim. But here’s the catch: the GT costs over £60,000. Stick to the “Air” trim (£45,995) for 328 miles of range and a balanced driving experience.

Pro tip: Use Kia’s “i-Pedal” mode (regenerative braking) to one-pedal drive in traffic. It’s addictive once you get the hang of it.

The Kia EV9: The Family SUV Game-Changer (Coming Soon)

The EV9 is Kia’s bold move into the 7-seater EV SUV space. Think of it as a Tesla Model X alternative, but with more cargo space (up to 828 liters with seats folded) and a starting price of £64,995. Early reviews praise its “lounge-like” second-row seats and a 347-mile range (WLTP). While it’s not out yet, Kia UK has already opened pre-orders, and dealers tell me demand is high. If you’ve got a large family and need space without sacrificing EV credentials, keep an eye on this one.

Range, Charging, and Real-World Usability

EV range anxiety is real, but Kia’s 2024 models address it head-on. Let’s break down what matters for UK drivers.

How Far Can Kia Electric Cars Go?

Here’s a quick look at the official WLTP ranges:

• Niro EV: 285 miles
• EV6 (RWD): 328 miles
• EV6 (AWD): 314 miles
• EV9 (RWD): 347 miles

But WLTP figures are optimistic. In real-world UK driving (with hills, rain, and winter temps), expect about 15–20% less. My EV6 test drive in November (5°C, light rain) gave me 260 miles on a full charge—still enough for most commutes. The Niro EV’s smaller battery (64.8kWh) means more frequent charging, but it’s perfect for city dwellers who rarely drive beyond 100 miles.

Charging Speed and Network Compatibility

Kia’s EVs support both home charging and public networks. The EV6’s 800V system is a game-changer: at a 350kW charger, it adds 100 miles in 4.5 minutes. The Niro EV maxes out at 77kW (10–80% in 45 minutes), which is slower but still competitive. All Kia EVs use CCS2 connectors, so they work with most UK networks (Pod Point, BP Pulse, Gridserve). I’ve had zero issues charging at Tesco car parks or motorway services.

Tip: Use Kia’s “Kia Connect” app to locate chargers, check availability, and pay remotely. It’s saved me from “charger hunting” more than once.

Home Charging: What You Need to Know

Most UK drivers charge at home. A 7kW wallbox (cost: £700–£1,000, with OZEV grants covering £350) will fully charge the Niro EV in ~10 hours. The EV6’s larger battery (77.4kWh) takes ~12 hours. If you’re on a standard 3-pin plug, budget 24+ hours for a full charge—not practical for daily use. Pro tip: Install a wallbox before delivery. Kia partners with BP Pulse for hassle-free setup.

Interior, Tech, and Everyday Comfort

Kia’s interiors have come a long way. No more “cheap plastic” vibes—the 2024 EVs feel premium, with intuitive tech and clever storage.

Cabin Design and Materials

The EV6’s cabin is a standout. The curved 12.3-inch digital cluster and touchscreen look straight out of a luxury car, and the recycled fabric seats (made from plastic bottles) are comfy and eco-friendly. The Niro EV’s interior is more conservative but still feels modern, with a rotary gear selector and soft-touch surfaces. The EV9 ups the ante with “premium relaxation” seats and a panoramic sunroof.

Real talk: The EV6’s center console has a “floating” design that looks cool but eats knee space for taller drivers. Test-drive first!

Infotainment and Connectivity

All Kia EVs run on the latest UVO Connect system. Highlights include:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (finally!)
• Over-the-air software updates
• Built-in navigation with charging station routing
• Remote climate control via app (pre-heat/cool your car)

I used the app to pre-heat my Niro EV on a frosty morning, and it made a huge difference. The EV6 also adds augmented reality navigation—projecting turn-by-turn arrows onto a live camera feed. It’s gimmicky but fun.

Storage and Practicality

Kia nails practicality. The Niro EV has 475 liters of boot space (bigger than a Ford Focus) and a “frunk” (front trunk) for the charging cable. The EV6 offers 490 liters and a 52-liter frunk—perfect for strollers or golf bags. The EV9’s 7-seater layout means less boot space (333 liters), but you can fold seats flat for a van-like cargo area.

Safety, Warranty, and Ownership Perks

Kia’s reputation for safety and value shines in their EVs.

Euro NCAP Ratings and Safety Features

All 2024 Kia EVs have a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Standard safety tech includes:

• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
• Lane-keeping assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Adaptive cruise control

The EV6 and EV9 add a “Remote Smart Parking Assist” feature—use your phone to park the car from outside. It’s handy for tight spaces, though I’d still prefer manual control.

The 7-Year Warranty: A Game-Changer

Kia’s warranty covers the entire car (not just the battery) for 7 years or 100,000 miles. Most rivals offer 3–5 years. This is huge for UK drivers, where average annual mileage is ~7,500. If your battery degrades below 70% within the warranty, Kia will replace it. No questions asked.

Tip: Keep your service records up to date. Kia requires annual servicing (even for EVs) to maintain the warranty.

Ownership Costs and Incentives

EVs are cheaper to run than ICE cars, and Kia’s no exception. Here’s a quick cost comparison (based on 10,000 miles/year):

• Fuel: ~£1,200/year (electricity at £0.28/kWh)
• Maintenance: ~£200/year (no oil changes, fewer moving parts)
• Tax: £0 (VED exempt until 2025)

Plus, Kia UK offers “Kia Charge”—a free 1-year subscription to over 30,000 chargers across Europe. You’ll save £100–£200 in charging fees.

Which Kia Electric Car Is Right for You?

Choosing the right EV depends on your needs. Here’s a data table to help:

Model	Price (from)	Range (WLTP)	Charging (10-80%)	Best For
Niro EV	£34,995	285 miles	45 mins (77kW)	City drivers, budget buyers
EV6 (RWD)	£45,995	328 miles	18 mins (350kW)	Tech lovers, performance seekers
EV6 (AWD)	£52,495	314 miles	18 mins (350kW)	All-weather driving, extra power
EV9 (RWD)	£64,995	347 miles	24 mins (350kW)	Large families, SUV enthusiasts

For city commuters: The Niro EV is a no-brainer. It’s affordable, efficient, and easy to park. I’d recommend the “Comfort” trim for heated seats and a better sound system.

For tech and speed: The EV6 is Kia’s flagship. The 800V charging is a lifesaver on road trips, and the interior feels like a Tesla for £10k less. Skip the GT trim unless you need 577bhp.

For families: The EV9 is the only 7-seater EV in its price range. It’s not cheap, but it’s a smarter buy than a £100k+ Tesla Model X. Pre-order now to secure early delivery.

The Final Verdict: Should You Go Kia?

Kia’s 2024 electric cars aren’t just good—they’re redefining what value means in the EV market. The Niro EV proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for a capable electric car. The EV6 delivers premium tech and performance at a mid-range price. And the EV9? It’s a bold statement that Kia can compete with the luxury brands.

Are there drawbacks? The Niro EV’s charging speed lags behind the EV6, and the EV9’s size makes it tricky for narrow UK streets. But these are minor trade-offs for the warranty, reliability, and overall package. If you’re in the market for an EV in 2024, test-drive a Kia. You might just walk out with one.

As someone who’s driven everything from a Nissan Leaf to a Porsche Taycan, I can say this: Kia’s electric cars feel like the future, today. And with the UK’s charging network expanding every month, there’s never been a better time to switch. So, what are you waiting for? Your next electric car might just be a Kia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best Kia UK electric car models for 2024?

The top picks for 2024 include the Kia EV6, Niro EV, and the all-new EV9. These models stand out for their range, tech features, and value, making them strong contenders in the UK electric car market.

How does the Kia EV6 compare to other electric cars in the UK?

The Kia EV6 offers a competitive range (up to 328 miles), ultra-fast charging, and a premium interior. It rivals models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford Mustang Mach-E, often praised for its sporty handling and cutting-edge design.

Are Kia UK electric cars eligible for government grants?

Yes, most new Kia electric cars, including the Niro EV and EV6, qualify for the UK’s Plug-in Car Grant (PICG), reducing the purchase price. Check the official government website for the latest eligibility criteria and grant amounts.

What is the average charging time for a Kia electric car?

With a 350kW fast charger, the Kia EV6 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes. Using a home 7kW charger, a full charge typically takes 7-12 hours, depending on the model and battery size.

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

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

How much does it cost to run a Kia electric car in the UK?

Running costs are significantly lower than petrol/diesel cars, with average electricity costs of £5-10 for a full charge (depending on rates). Kia UK electric cars also benefit from zero road tax and reduced maintenance expenses.