Should you buy a Kia Niro EV?

If you need a sensible electric car for you family, the Kia Niro EV is a good choice. With prices starting from around £37,000, it isn’t the most affordable option on the market (the Smart #1 is a little cheaper), but it’s well equipped, well made and very refined on the motorway. The cabin is a lot better than the old models, too – now, the technology and design match the rest of the Kia’s model range.

The updated electric powertrain also suits the Niro EV’s character well. The motor’s lower torque figure makes the car more relaxing to drive, and the slightly larger battery pack has added a few miles to the SUV’s maximum range.

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We would have liked to see the Niro EV crack the 300-mile mark for range and become a closer competitor for the Skoda Enyaq. But, to be fair to Kia, this is unlikely to be a problem in the real world of short commuting distances and local shopping trips. Overall, the Niro EV is a very appealing all-round package that offers an easy transition into the world of electric car ownership. It’s also a much better choice for families than the Jeep Avenger or the Fiat 600e.

What we like

The Niro EV’s interior is comfortable, and its new infotainment system looks the business (even if it does chop off a third of the screen when you’re using Android Auto). We also like the Niro’s new powertrain – the slightly lower torque figure has made the car better to drive. There’s plenty of space in the back for passengers, too, thanks to its high roof and lack of a central tunnel.

What we don’t like

The Niro EV’s low-speed ride is unsettled. You get bounced around a lot over rough tarmac and potholes send judders through the cabin. The storage bins in the doors and the centre console are also a funny shape, which means there’s nowhere convenient to put a bottle of water. It isn’t particularly engaging to drive, either, but that’s a criticism that can be levelled at most cars in this class.