2019 KIA NIRO EV REVIEW

EV Channels Review

The 2019 Kia Niro EV is lauded as a standout electric vehicle, earning the reviewer's "EV of the Year" pick for its blend of normalcy, practicality, and performance. The vehicle's design is praised for its ability to blend in, appealing to EV buyers who prefer not to stand out. Key strengths highlighted include its spacious interior, particularly the rear seat legroom, attributed to its 106.3-inch wheelbase. The 201-horsepower motor provides ample torque for responsive acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7.8 seconds. The reviewer found the infotainment system intuitive and the navigation excellent, even preferring it over smartphone integration. Comfort features like cooled leather seats and a heated steering wheel are noted as significant benefits, especially in extreme weather. The primary drawback identified is the interior noise level, which is perceived as slightly higher than comparable vehicles like the Nissan Leaf, with more noticeable wind and road noise. Despite this, the reviewer considers the Niro EV a "winner" and a "buy," recommending it over competitors like the Model 3 and Leaf Plus for its overall package, comfort, and usability.