Kia reveals all-new Niro EV pricing, details and specifications

South Korean auto maker Kia has lifted the veil on details and specs of its upgraded Niro EV, which is going on sale in Australia from $65,300 for an entry-level S trim.

At the top of the range sits a flagship GT-line trim from $72,100 (all before on-roads). Pricing puts the all-electric Niro EV at a $21,000-22,000 premium above its hybrid stablemates, which are $44,380 and $50,030 before on-roads.

While the downside is a higher price, the benefits of course include escaping the petrol bowser, where prices are continuing to skyrocket amid soaring oil costs, the Ukraine conflict and numerous global logistics hurdles. And, of course, there are no  tailpipe emissions.

Both the S trim and GT-Line Niro EV come with the same 64.8kWH battery as the predecessor, but add 5km in range, taking the total to 460km (WLTP).

Charging can be done at a top rate of 100kW on DC fast-chargers, giving a nine minute improvement on charging times from 10-80% (43-45 minutes), and at a top rate of 11kW on an AC charger, giving 10-100% charging in 6 hours and 20 minutes.

A front-wheel-drive configuration with a single speed reduction gear motor delivers 150 kW power and 255Nm torque and acceleration from 0-100km/hr in 7.8 seconds.

In a first, the Niro EV has undergone the first full all Australian ride and handling program that Kia has been able to implement since since the global Covid-19 pandemic.

The effect, says Kia – and which we will report on in coming days in our drive impressions article – is a stable ride with minimal roll. Kia reckons it’s a big improvement on the outgoing Niro which was tuned to handle European conditions.

Bigger and better Niro EV

The new Niro EV, as reported here, is slightly bigger than its predecessor. It is 65mm longer at 4,420mm, and 20mm wider at 1,825mm, and the height is 1,570mm (the hybrid is slightly shorter at 1,545mm). The wheelbase is also now slightly longer at 2,720mm by 20mm.

Cargo space is 475 litres with the back seats up and 1,392 litres with the back seat down. Due to being front-wheel drive, the frunk is a modest 20 litres.

Towing capacity for the all-electric Niro EV has been raised from 300kg from 750kg, although this is still less than its hybrid 1,300kg towing capacity.

Bold new looks for the Kia Niro EV

Perhaps the most noticeable change for the Niro EV in terms of visual looks is the bold new side profile.

A new “Aero”  C pillar design includes an aerodynamic vent that allows the Niro EV to achieve a 0.29 drag coefficiency.

An optional contrasting C pillar creates a solid statement on the road, complimenting the front and rugged skid plates at front and back.

A “heartbeat” grille design below the Kia tiger nose face is echoed in the rear reflector and boomerang LED tail lights.

The Niro EV will be available in a range of colours, including pearl and clear white, pearl black, mineral blue, two shades of grey, and a striking runway red. All come with a shiny gloss black cladding along the bottom with the exception of the pearl white GT-Line EV.

Contrasting C pillars come optionally in black for the green and blue GT-Line, while the pearl white GT-Line optionally comes with a steel grey cladding and C pillar.

Inside, sustainable materials include recycled PET headlining, seats made from “bio PU” that incorporates gum tree fibres, and eco-friendly paint that excludes the use of BTX, a chemical mix that contains benzene, toluene, and the three xylene isomers.

Vehicle to load comes as standard across the entire Niro EV range, bringing charging capability from car to devices for all.

This will be available via a 240-volt port inside the cabin, while the GT-Line will also come with 3.6 charging kW via an external adapter for the charge port.

Other specs that drivers will no doubt be keen for if choosing the range-topping GT- Line are a sliding and tilting electronic sunroof, “premium front passenger relaxation seat”, eight speaker Harmon Kardon sound system, ambient lighting, and a paddle shifter to vary the regenerative braking.

The GT-Line also gets a 10.5″ audio visual display compared to the S’ 8″display, as well as the ability to set up a personalised system, and built-in satellite navigation with 10 years map care and live updates. Oddly – the S gets wireless phone connection while the GT-Line only gets wired.

Smartphone integration with Kia Connect

The new Niro range will also be the first to come with Kia’s Kia Connect telematics. This means that for the first time, smartphone users can connect their phones remotely.

Kia Connect will also allow voice control for features such as temperature, audio, and bring real time weather and traffic info into the cars interface. The GT-Line also gets a smart tailgate that can be opened via voice control.

Drivers will also be able to sync calendars, check monthly driving records and location (useful for when the teenagers ask to borrow the car!), check the vehicle’s status, get security notifications, implement valet mode and schedule charging and climate control – all from a handy smartphone app.

It’s all free for the first seven years – although how it will be dished out after that is yet to be determined.

Software updates will, however, only be implemented via in-house servicing. Kia plans to enable over-the-air updates in the future (and possibility implement it via a software update – stay tuned).