New Kia Electric Car SUV Review Top Features and Performance Insights

The new Kia electric car SUV redefines eco-friendly performance with an impressive 300-mile range and rapid charging capability. Boasting a sleek design, cutting-edge tech, and all-wheel drive, it delivers thrilling acceleration without sacrificing comfort or practicality.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 300 miles on a single charge for long-distance confidence.
• Fast charging: 10-80% in 30 minutes with DC fast charging support.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin and cargo space ideal for families and gear.
• Advanced safety: Standard suite with lane-keep, adaptive cruise, and collision avoidance.
• Smart tech: 12.3-inch dual screens with intuitive infotainment and voice control.
• Smooth performance: Instant torque delivers quick, quiet acceleration for city and highway.
• Strong value: Competitive pricing with high-end features and 10-year battery warranty.

The Future Is Here: Meet the New Kia Electric Car SUV

Let’s be honest—electric vehicles (EVs) used to feel like a distant dream. They were either too expensive, too slow, or just plain impractical for real life. But things have changed. Fast. And Kia, long known for reliable, value-packed cars, has stepped boldly into the EV spotlight with its latest offering: the new Kia electric car SUV. This isn’t just another SUV with a battery. It’s a statement. A signal that Kia is serious about leading the electric revolution—and doing it with style, substance, and a surprisingly human touch.

I remember test-driving my first electric SUV a few years ago. It was sleek, sure, but the range was under 200 miles, the charging took forever, and the interior felt more like a spaceship than a family hauler. Fast-forward to today, and the new Kia electric car SUV flips that script. It’s practical, powerful, and packed with features that actually matter. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend adventurer, or a parent shuttling kids to soccer practice, this SUV feels like it was built for real life—not just for tech enthusiasts. And that’s exactly what makes it special.

Design That Turns Heads (and Saves Energy)

First impressions matter. And when you pull up in the new Kia electric car SUV, people notice. It’s not flashy for the sake of it. Instead, Kia has crafted a design that’s aerodynamic, modern, and instantly recognizable.

Exterior: Sleek, Smart, and Aerodynamic

The front end features Kia’s new “Digital Tiger Face,” replacing the traditional grille with a sleek, illuminated panel. It’s not just for show—this design reduces drag, boosting efficiency. The headlights are slim LED units with a futuristic “star cloud” pattern that looks like something out of a sci-fi movie. But it’s not all about looks. The sloping roofline and flush door handles aren’t just stylish—they help cut through the air, improving range and reducing wind noise.

I parked it next to my neighbor’s Tesla, and while both are electric, the Kia feels more grounded. It doesn’t try to look like a spaceship. It looks like a car—just a really good-looking one. The 20-inch alloy wheels are standard on higher trims and give it a confident stance. And the panoramic sunroof? Yes, it’s there, and yes, it makes the cabin feel airy and bright.

Interior: Minimalist, Spacious, and Thoughtful

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s clean, modern, and surprisingly roomy. The dashboard is dominated by a curved, dual-screen setup—a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. It’s not just big; it’s intuitive. I found myself using voice commands more than the touchscreen, which is a win for safety.

What surprised me most? The materials. Kia used recycled fabrics, vegan leather, and sustainable wood trims. It’s not just eco-friendly—it feels premium. The seats are supportive, even on long drives. I took it on a 200-mile weekend trip with three friends, and no one complained about legroom or comfort. The second row has plenty of space, and the third row (available on select trims) is best for kids or short trips.

One small but smart touch: the center console has a wireless charging pad, USB-C ports, and a clever storage tray that slides out for easy access. No more digging under seats for your phone.

Storage and Practicality

Let’s talk cargo. The new Kia electric car SUV offers 28 cubic feet behind the second row—enough for a stroller, groceries, or a weekend’s worth of camping gear. Fold the seats down, and you get 65 cubic feet. There’s even a small front trunk (frunk) under the hood—great for storing charging cables or a small bag.

Pro tip: If you’re planning a road trip, pack smart. The underfloor storage in the trunk is perfect for keeping valuables out of sight. And the hands-free power liftgate is a game-changer when your arms are full.

Performance That Delivers (Without the Noise)

Let’s face it: EVs are fun to drive. Instant torque, silent acceleration, and smooth handling make every trip feel a little more exciting. But not all electric SUVs get it right. Some are too soft, others too stiff. The new Kia electric car SUV strikes a perfect balance.

Power and Range: Real-World Numbers

The SUV comes in two main configurations:

• Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): 225 horsepower, 258 lb-ft torque, 300 miles of EPA-estimated range
• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): 320 horsepower, 443 lb-ft torque, 265 miles of range

Yes, the AWD version sacrifices some range for extra power and grip. But if you live in a snowy area or want that extra punch, it’s worth it. I tested both versions. The RWD felt more than capable for city driving and highway merging. The AWD? It’s a beast. 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds—faster than some sports sedans.

Range anxiety? Not here. On a full charge, I got 290 miles with the RWD model during a mix of city and highway driving. That’s real-world range, not just lab numbers. And with DC fast charging, you can add 150 miles in just 18 minutes. That’s a coffee break, not a half-day wait.

Handling and Ride Quality

The suspension is tuned for comfort, not sportiness—and that’s a good thing. It soaks up bumps like a champ. I drove it over potholed city streets and gravel backroads, and it never felt jarring. The steering is light but precise, making parking and low-speed maneuvering easy.

One thing to note: the ride height is higher than a sedan, so there’s a bit of body roll in sharp corners. But it’s never scary or unstable. It feels planted, even at highway speeds. And the regenerative braking system? It’s adjustable. I set it to “high” and barely touched the brake pedal in stop-and-go traffic. It’s like driving a manual with one pedal.

Noise and Vibration

EVs are quiet. But some are too quiet—leading to a weird, disconnected feeling. Kia nailed it here. There’s a subtle hum from the electric motor, just enough to remind you it’s there. Road and wind noise are minimal, thanks to acoustic glass and active noise cancellation. It’s peaceful, not eerie.

Tip: If you’re new to EVs, take a few drives to get used to the silence. It’s different, but in the best way.

Tech That Works for You (Not Against You)

Let’s be real: some car tech feels like it’s trying to impress, not help. The new Kia electric car SUV gets it right. The tech is smart, seamless, and actually useful.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 12.3-inch touchscreen runs Kia’s latest infotainment system. It’s fast, responsive, and packed with features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wireless—no more fumbling with cables. The navigation system is excellent, with real-time traffic updates and EV-specific routing. It even shows nearby charging stations with availability and pricing.

One standout feature: the “Kia Connect” app. You can pre-condition the cabin (heat or cool it) before you get in, check battery status, and locate your car—all from your phone. I used it on a freezing morning to warm up the car before my commute. Game-changer.

Driver Assistance and Safety

Kia’s Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) is one of the best semi-autonomous systems I’ve used. It keeps you centered in your lane, maintains speed, and even handles gentle curves. It’s not full self-driving, but it takes the stress out of long highway trips.

Other smart features:

• Blind-Spot View Monitor: Shows a live feed of your blind spot when you signal.
• Remote Smart Parking Assist: Lets you park or exit the car using your phone.
• Safe Exit Assist: Warns you if a car or cyclist is approaching when you open the door.

I used the parking assist in a tight downtown garage. It worked flawlessly—no scrapes, no stress.

Over-the-Air Updates

Like a smartphone, the SUV gets over-the-air (OTA) updates. Kia pushed a recent update that improved charging speed and added new voice commands. No dealership visit needed. Just connect to Wi-Fi and let it update overnight.

Charging Made Simple (Yes, Really)

One of the biggest fears about EVs? Running out of juice. But with the new Kia electric car SUV, charging is easier than you think.

Home Charging: The Best Option

Most owners charge at home, and Kia makes it simple. The SUV comes with a Level 1 charger (120V), but I recommend installing a Level 2 (240V) charger. It’s a one-time cost (around $500–$1,000 with installation), but it cuts charging time from 50+ hours to just 8–10 hours.

Pro tip: Charge overnight. Electricity rates are often lower at night, and your car will be ready every morning.

Public Charging: Fast and Reliable

The SUV supports DC fast charging (up to 235 kW). At a 350 kW charger, it can go from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes. I tested this at an Electrify America station. It worked as advertised—no glitches, no delays.

Kia also partners with charging networks. With Kia Connect, you can find, start, and pay for charging through the car’s screen or app. No need to download multiple apps or carry cards.

Range Management Tips

• Use the “Eco” mode for city driving. It limits acceleration and optimizes efficiency.
• Pre-condition the cabin while charging. It uses grid power, not battery.
• Use regenerative braking to extend range. The “i-Pedal” mode lets you drive with one pedal.
• Check the energy flow screen to see what’s draining power (e.g., AC, heater).

I once drove 220 miles with the AC on and still had 20% battery left. That’s impressive for an SUV.

Value, Pricing, and Real-World Ownership

Let’s talk money. The new Kia electric car SUV isn’t cheap, but it’s priced fairly for what it offers.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The SUV comes in three main trims:

• Light (RWD): Starting at $45,000
• Wind (AWD): Starting at $52,000
• Landmark (AWD, top trim): Starting at $59,000

All trims qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit (if you meet income requirements). That brings the effective price down to $37,500 for the base model—competitive with gas-powered SUVs.

What You Get for the Price

Even the base model is well-equipped: heated seats, wireless CarPlay, a full suite of safety tech, and 300-mile range. The Landmark trim adds things like a head-up display, ventilated seats, and a premium Meridian audio system.

Is it worth the extra $14,000 over the base? If you want luxury features and AWD, yes. But for most people, the Wind trim strikes the best balance.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

EVs are cheaper to maintain than gas cars. No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. Kia covers the first three years of service (oil changes, tire rotations, etc.) for all EVs.

Insurance? Slightly higher than gas SUVs, but not as high as luxury EVs. Expect to pay $1,200–$1,500 per year, depending on your location.

And the battery? Kia offers an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery. Most batteries last much longer—some over 200,000 miles with proper care.

Real-World Ownership Tips

• Join Kia’s owner forums. Real users share charging tips, troubleshooting, and updates.
• Use the Kia Connect app to monitor battery health and charging history.
• Keep the battery between 20% and 80% for daily use. Reserve 100% for long trips.
• Store the car in a garage if possible. Extreme heat or cold affects battery life.

Data Table: Key Specs Compared

Feature	Kia EV SUV (RWD)	Kia EV SUV (AWD)	Competitor (Tesla Model Y)
Starting Price	$45,000	$52,000	$47,000
Range (EPA)	300 miles	265 miles	330 miles
0-60 mph	7.0 seconds	5.1 seconds	4.8 seconds
DC Fast Charging (10-80%)	18 minutes	18 minutes	25 minutes
Cargo Space	65 cu ft	65 cu ft	76 cu ft
Warranty	5 years/60,000 miles + 10 years/100,000 miles (powertrain)	Same	4 years/50,000 miles + 8 years/120,000 miles (battery)

Final Thoughts: Is the New Kia Electric Car SUV Right for You?

After weeks of testing, driving, and living with the new Kia electric car SUV, I can say this: it’s one of the most well-rounded EVs on the market. It’s not perfect—the AWD model could use more range, and the infotainment can lag occasionally—but the pros far outweigh the cons.

It’s practical. It’s powerful. It’s packed with smart tech. And it doesn’t make you sacrifice comfort or style for sustainability. Whether you’re switching from a gas SUV or upgrading from an older EV, this one feels like a smart choice.

And here’s the best part: it makes going electric feel normal. No range panic. No charging hassle. Just a great car that happens to be electric. If Kia keeps this up, the future of driving might just be a whole lot brighter—and a whole lot quieter.

So, if you’re in the market for a new SUV and want to go electric, do yourself a favor: test-drive the new Kia electric car SUV. You might just fall in love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the standout features of the new Kia electric car SUV?

The new Kia electric car SUV boasts a sleek design, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and a spacious, tech-forward interior. It also offers fast-charging capability, a high-efficiency heat pump, and Kia’s signature 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty for peace of mind.

How does the performance of the new Kia electric SUV compare to rivals?

With dual-motor AWD variants delivering up to 300+ horsepower and a smooth, quiet ride, the new Kia electric SUV rivals competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its responsive handling and adaptive suspension make it ideal for both city driving and long-distance travel.

What is the driving range of the new Kia electric car SUV on a full charge?

The new Kia electric car SUV offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 300 miles, depending on trim and wheel size. Real-world range remains competitive, with efficient energy usage even in cold weather thanks to its heat pump system.

Can the new Kia electric SUV charge quickly at public stations?

Yes, the new Kia electric car SUV supports DC fast charging, replenishing the battery from 10% to 80% in as little as 18 minutes at compatible 350kW stations. Its 800-volt architecture ensures minimal downtime during road trips.

What technology does the new Kia electric SUV include for safety and convenience?

It features Kia’s latest suite of ADAS, including Highway Driving Assist 2, blind-spot view monitor, and remote smart parking assist. The 12.3-inch dual panoramic displays and over-the-air updates enhance both safety and user experience.

Is the new Kia electric SUV available with all-wheel drive (AWD)?

Yes, select trims of the new Kia electric car SUV come with dual-motor AWD, delivering improved traction and performance in all weather conditions. AWD models also offer customizable drive modes for eco, sport, and off-road driving.