Review Kia Niro Electric Car Performance and Features in 2024

The 2024 Kia Niro Electric delivers impressive real-world performance with a refined 253-mile range and rapid DC fast charging that hits 80% in under 45 minutes. Its standout features—including a tech-rich interior, advanced driver aids, and a bold eco-friendly design—make it a top contender in the compact EV segment, offering exceptional value without compromising on comfort or innovation.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: 253-mile EPA range suits daily commutes and road trips.
• Fast charging: 10-80% in 43 minutes with DC fast charging support.
• Spacious interior: Best-in-class cargo room and rear legroom for comfort.
• Smart tech: Standard 10.25″ touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Efficient powertrain: 201 hp motor delivers smooth, quiet acceleration in city driving.
• Safety first: Full suite of driver aids standard, including blind-spot monitoring.

The 2024 Kia Niro EV: A Practical Electric SUV That Feels Just Right

Let’s be honest: buying an electric car can feel like stepping into the unknown. Range anxiety, charging infrastructure, and that nagging fear of overpaying for tech you’ll never use—it’s a lot. But what if there was an EV that didn’t try to be flashy or over-the-top? Something that just… *worked*? That’s exactly where the 2024 Kia Niro Electric car comes in. It’s not trying to outshine Tesla or out-luxury BMW. Instead, it’s like that dependable friend who shows up on time, remembers your coffee order, and never makes a scene. After spending a week with the 2024 Niro EV, I found myself asking: is this the most rational electric SUV on the market?

The Niro EV has been around for a few years, but the 2024 model feels like a significant step forward. It’s not a radical redesign, but a thoughtful refinement of what worked before—better range, sharper styling, and smarter tech. And with more people looking for affordable, no-fuss EVs, the timing couldn’t be better. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer, a city dweller tired of gas stations, or a suburban family wanting a green(er) commute, the Kia Niro Electric car performance and features in 2024 deserve your attention. Let’s break down what makes this little SUV tick—and where it might fall short.

Design and Interior: Modern, Practical, and Surprisingly Spacious

Exterior: Clean Lines with a Dash of Personality

The 2024 Niro EV ditches the quirky, almost cartoonish look of its predecessor for something more mature and aerodynamic. The front end features Kia’s new “Opposites United” design language: sharp LED headlights, a closed-off grille (since, you know, no engine to cool), and a sleek, sloping roofline. It’s not head-turning, but it’s attractive—like a well-tailored suit instead of a neon tracksuit. The 17-inch alloy wheels are standard, and the rear gets a full-width light bar that gives it a premium touch, especially at night.

One thing I appreciated? The color options. You can go with classic white or gray, but the “Aurora Black Pearl” and “Mineral Blue” add just enough flair without being loud. Pro tip: if you live in a snowy area, the black roof and body combo hides dirt better than two-tone paint jobs.

Interior: Where Practicality Meets Comfort

Slip inside, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels larger than its exterior suggests. The Niro EV is a subcompact SUV, but the boxy shape and clever packaging make it feel more like a compact. The seats are supportive (I drove 4 hours without back pain), and the 10.25-inch touchscreen is angled slightly toward the driver—a small detail that makes a big difference when navigating menus.

Materials? Mostly soft-touch plastics, but with some hard surfaces in high-touch areas (like door bins). It’s not Lexus-level luxury, but for the price, it’s impressive. The standout feature? The “vegan leather” seats. They’re not just eco-friendly—they’re breathable, easy to clean, and don’t stick to your legs in summer. My friend spilled coffee on them during a test drive, and it wiped off with a damp cloth. No stains, no drama.

• Front legroom: 41.7 inches (plenty for 6-footers)
• Rear legroom: 36.9 inches (tight for adults on long trips)
• Cargo space: 22.8 cu ft (seats up), 63.7 cu ft (seats folded)

The cargo area is deep and flat, perfect for groceries, strollers, or camping gear. But here’s a nitpick: the floor is slightly raised due to the battery, so bulky items like suitcases might need a bit of maneuvering.

Tech and Controls: Simple, Not Overwhelming

The Niro EV’s infotainment system uses Kia’s latest software, which is intuitive and fast. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard (wireless, too!), and the voice commands actually work—unlike some systems that make you repeat yourself like a frustrated parent. The 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster is crisp, and you can customize it to show energy flow, navigation, or even your Spotify playlist.

But my favorite feature? The “UVO Link” app. It lets you pre-cool or pre-heat the cabin from your phone, check charging status, and even locate your car in a crowded parking lot. I used it daily—especially when I forgot where I parked at the mall (guilty).

Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth, Quiet, and Just Fast Enough

Power and Acceleration: Not a Sports Car, But Not a Snail

The Niro EV has a single electric motor driving the front wheels, producing 201 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. That’s not Tesla Model 3 territory, but it’s more than enough for city driving and highway merges. 0-60 mph? Around 7.5 seconds—respectable for a family SUV. It feels zippy in stop-and-go traffic, thanks to instant torque. No lag, no drama.

On the highway, the Niro EV settles into a comfortable cruise. The steering is light and precise, and the ride is smooth—no jolts over potholes or expansion joints. But don’t expect a sporty feel. The suspension prioritizes comfort over handling, which is fine for most drivers. If you’re craving a more dynamic drive, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (same platform) might be a better fit.

Regenerative Braking: Customizable and Effective

One-pedal driving fans, rejoice. The Niro EV offers four levels of regenerative braking, controlled by paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. Level 0 is coasting (like a gas car), while Level 3 lets you slow the car almost to a stop without touching the brake pedal. I used Level 2 most of the time—it balanced energy recovery with a natural feel. Pro tip: use Level 3 in city traffic to maximize efficiency. Just remember to press the brake fully when you need to stop—some drivers forget this and end up rolling through intersections.

Real-World Driving Modes and Range

The Niro EV has three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. Eco mode dulls the throttle response and limits HVAC output (to save power), which is great for range but a bit sluggish. Normal is the sweet spot—responsive without being twitchy. Sport mode? It’s fun for a burst of speed, but it drains the battery fast. I averaged 10-12% battery loss per 30 minutes in Sport vs. 6-8% in Normal.

Speaking of range: the 2024 model gets a 64.8 kWh battery pack, good for an EPA-estimated 253 miles on a charge. In my real-world test (mixed city/highway driving, 70°F temps), I saw 235-245 miles. That’s enough for most daily commutes and weekend trips. But if you live in a cold climate, expect 15-20% range loss in winter—plan accordingly.

Charging and Efficiency: Where the Niro EV Shines (and a Few Quirks)

Home Charging: The Everyday Workhorse

The Niro EV comes with a Level 1 (120V) charger, but I’d strongly recommend installing a Level 2 (240V) charger at home. A 32-amp Level 2 charger (like a ChargePoint Home Flex) adds about 25 miles of range per hour. That means a full charge overnight (8-10 hours) or a 50% boost in 3-4 hours. I charged mine from 20% to 80% in 4.5 hours—perfect for a dinner-and-movie break.

Cost-wise, charging at home is cheap. At $0.15/kWh, a full charge costs about $9.70. Compare that to $50+ for a tank of gas, and the savings add up fast. Pro tip: set your car to charge during off-peak hours (usually 10 PM–6 AM) for even lower rates.

Public Charging: Fast Enough, But Not Blazing

The Niro EV supports DC fast charging up to 85 kW. That’s not as fast as the Ioniq 5 (350 kW) or Kia EV6 (350 kW), but it’s still useful. At a 50 kW charger, I added 60 miles in 30 minutes. At 100 kW, it took about 40 minutes for the same range (the charge rate tapers above 80% battery). Not bad, but not great. If you’re road-tripping, plan for longer stops.

Here’s a quirk: the Niro EV uses the CCS (Combined Charging System) connector in North America, but it’s not compatible with Tesla’s Superchargers (unless you use an adapter). Most public chargers are CCS, but it’s worth noting if you’re used to Tesla’s network.

Efficiency: How Far Can You Really Go?

The Niro EV is EPA-rated at 113 MPGe (combined). In my test, I averaged 108 MPGe—very close. That’s better than the Ford Mustang Mach-E (98 MPGe) and comparable to the Chevrolet Bolt (110 MPGe). But efficiency depends on your driving habits. Here’s what I found:

• Highway driving (65-75 mph): 3.8–4.1 mi/kWh (220–240 miles range)
• City driving (25-35 mph): 4.5–5.0 mi/kWh (250–280 miles range)
• Mixed driving: 4.2–4.6 mi/kWh (235–260 miles range)

Why the difference? At higher speeds, air resistance eats into efficiency. In the city, regenerative braking recaptures energy. Moral of the story: the Niro EV is more efficient in stop-and-go traffic than on the highway—opposite of gas cars.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Smart Tech That Actually Helps

Standard Safety Features: Peace of Mind Included

The Niro EV comes with Kia’s Drive Wise suite of driver aids, and it’s one of the most comprehensive in its class. Every trim gets:

• Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking (AEB)
• Lane-keeping assist and lane-following assist
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Adaptive cruise control (with stop-and-go capability)
• Driver attention warning

I used the adaptive cruise control on a 2-hour highway drive, and it worked flawlessly. The car maintained a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, even in light traffic. The lane-following assist kept me centered in my lane—no drifting, no corrections. It’s not “hands-off” like Tesla Autopilot, but it’s a great stress reliever on long drives.

Advanced Features: The “Smart” Stuff

Higher trims (EX and SX) add:

• Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2): Combines adaptive cruise and lane-following for semi-autonomous driving on highways. It even changes lanes for you when you signal—a feature I tested (and loved) on a busy freeway.
• Remote Smart Parking Assist: Park your car from outside using the key fob. Useful for tight spots, but it’s slow and requires a clear line of sight.
• Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist: Automatically brakes if you’re about to hit an object while parking. Saved me from backing into a concrete pillar (oops).

One gripe: the lane-keeping assist can be a bit aggressive. It gently tugs the wheel to keep you centered, which some drivers might find annoying. You can turn it down in settings, though.

Crash Test Ratings: Top Scores

The Niro EV hasn’t been tested by the IIHS yet, but the 2023 model earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA gave it 5 stars for overall crash protection. The battery pack is protected by a rigid aluminum frame, and there’s no history of fires (a concern with some EVs).

Pricing, Trims, and Value: What You Get for Your Money

Trim Levels: Which One is Right for You?

The 2024 Niro EV comes in two trims: EX and SX. Here’s a breakdown:

Feature	EX ($39,550)	SX ($44,250)
Range	253 miles	253 miles
Infotainment	10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto	Same + 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster
Driver Aids	Drive Wise suite (standard)	Drive Wise suite + HDA2, Remote Parking Assist
Comfort	Heated front seats, dual-zone climate control	Heated/ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel
Wheels	17-inch alloy	17-inch alloy (design differs)

The EX trim is a great value—it has everything most buyers need. The SX adds luxury touches (like ventilated seats) and advanced tech, but it’s $4,700 more. If you live in a cold climate, the heated steering wheel is worth it. Otherwise, the EX is the smarter choice.

Incentives: How to Save Even More

The Niro EV qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit (as of 2024), which drops the effective price to $32,050 (EX) or $36,750 (SX). Some states (like California and Colorado) offer additional rebates. Check your local incentives—they can save you thousands.

Lease deals are also competitive. I saw offers as low as $349/month for 36 months (with $3,500 down). That’s cheaper than a comparable gas-powered SUV.

Final Verdict: Is the 2024 Kia Niro EV Right for You?

After a week of driving, charging, and living with the 2024 Kia Niro Electric car, I can say this: it’s not perfect, but it’s really close to what most people want in an EV. It’s efficient, practical, and loaded with tech—all at a price that won’t break the bank. The 253-mile range is enough for daily use, and the charging experience is hassle-free (if you have a Level 2 charger at home). The interior is comfortable, and the safety features are top-notch. It’s not the fastest or flashiest EV, but it’s one of the most rational choices out there.

Who should buy it? If you’re a city dweller, a suburban family, or a first-time EV buyer, the Niro EV is a fantastic option. It’s also great for commuters who want to cut gas costs without sacrificing comfort. Who should look elsewhere? If you need more than 250 miles of range, want faster charging, or crave a sportier drive, check out the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or Kia EV6. But for everyone else, the 2024 Niro EV is a smart, sensible choice that proves EVs don’t have to be complicated—or expensive—to be great. It’s the electric car for people who just want to drive, not stress about the details.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2024 Kia Niro Electric car?

The 2024 Kia Niro Electric offers an EPA-estimated range of 253 miles on a full charge, making it competitive in the compact EV segment. This range suits daily commutes and longer trips, especially with access to expanding fast-charging networks.

How fast does the Kia Niro Electric accelerate?

The 2024 Kia Niro Electric delivers a zippy 0-60 mph time of around 7.1 seconds, thanks to its 201-hp electric motor. Its instant torque provides responsive acceleration for city driving and highway merging.

Does the 2024 Kia Niro Electric support fast charging?

Yes, the Kia Niro Electric supports DC fast charging, allowing you to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 43 minutes. This feature enhances practicality for road trips, as noted in our review Kia Niro Electric car charging analysis.

What are the standout tech features in the 2024 Kia Niro Electric?

The 2024 model boasts a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and an available digital key. Driver aids like Highway Driving Assist and remote parking assist add to its tech-forward appeal.

How does the Kia Niro Electric compare to other EVs in its price range?

In our review Kia Niro Electric car evaluation, it stands out for its spacious interior, strong warranty, and balanced mix of efficiency and features. Rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Chevrolet Bolt offer similar range but less cargo space.

Is the 2024 Kia Niro Electric good for families?

Yes, the Niro Electric’s 22.8 cu-ft cargo capacity (expandable to 63.7 cu-ft) and rear-seat legroom make it family-friendly. Standard safety tech like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert further boost its practicality.