Every Kia Electric Car Ranked – TopSpeed

While still a relative newcomer to the electric vehicle market, Kia has aggressively staked its claim in recent years. Through bold offerings like the pioneering Niro EV and stylish EV6, the South Korean brand cultivated a dedicated fanbase of eco-conscious drivers. With Elon Musk & Co’s market dominance beginning to slip away in America thanks to increasing competition, Kia appears poised to steal some of the EV crown through a robust lineup of alluring electric machines. Featuring sleek styling, long-range capabilities, and quick charging times, Kia’s electric models provide compelling alternatives to gas-powered cars. Here’s the progress and innovations that have shaped Kia’s growing EV portfolio.

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The Kia EV Lineup At A Glance

Kia currently offers two electric vehicles in the United States: the Niro EV compact crossover and the acclaimed EV6 crossover. Two additional electric SUVs are on the horizon: the EV5 midsize crossover arriving in 2023 and the three-row EV9 in 2024. Kia’s EVs boast futuristic designs inside and out. They ride on dedicated EV platforms engineered for optimal driving dynamics, safety, and interior space. Early EVs like the Kia Soul EV (2014), which was primarily marketed in Europe, had basic specs and limited range. But the improved Niro EV launched in 2018 signaled Kia’s entry into long-range EVs. This set the stage for the game-changing EV6, which showcases the advanced 800V electrical architecture of the E-GMP platform co-developed with Hyundai. With DC fast charging, newer Kia models can add over 200 miles of range in under 30 minutes.

The modular E-GMP skateboard platform now underpins the majority of the lineup ensuring generous interior space, advanced driver assistance tech, and accommodation of large battery packs. This allows for competitive estimated ranges nearing – and in some cases exceeding – 300 miles per charge. Kia also backs its EVs with outstanding 10-year/100,000-mile warranties. As Kia expands its EV portfolio, the brand aims to lead in range, charging speed, interior space, and the latest technology. Let’s now see how Kia’s current and upcoming electric vehicles stack up.

Kia Niro EV

Starting MSRP: $39,990

The much-loved Kia Niro EV debuted for the 2020 model year as an all-electric version of Kia’s popular Niro hybrid crossover. With a $39,990 base price, the Niro EV delivers an EPA-estimated 239 miles of range at an attractive price point. The Niro EV is powered by a 201-horsepower permanent magnet synchronous electric motor powered by a 64 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. This front-wheel drive EV can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds. The battery supports DC fast charging up to 100 kW, allowing an 80 percent charge in under an hour.

Specs and Performance

On the outside, the Niro EV resembles the hybrid Niro but with unique rims and charging port door. The interior remains similar as well, highlighted by a 10.3-inch touchscreen and Harman/Kardon audio on higher trims. Available driver assists include forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The well-equipped Niro EV Wind starts at $39,990. The top Wave trim from $44,650 adds a sunroof, LED lights, ventilated seats, and a heat pump for improved cold weather range. With ample range for daily needs, the value-packed Niro EV is an easy transition into electric driving.

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Kia EV6

Starting MSRP: $42,115

The Kia EV6 ushered in a new era for the brand in 2022, riding on the dedicated E-GMP platform. This sleek crossover’s cutting-edge 800V electrical architecture enables ultra-fast charging, vehicle-to-load power, and up to 310 miles of driving range. The EV6 lineup includes RWD and AWD models ranging from 167 horsepower to about 576 horsepower. Even the base Light trim accelerates briskly, powered by a 167 horsepower/258 pound-feet rear motor. Stepping up to the Wind RWD model unlocks a larger 77.4 kWh battery good for more than 300 miles of range.

Specs and Performance

DC fast charging enables the EV6 to replenish 210 miles in only about 18 minutes. The modern interior provides a curved display, perforated vegan leather seats, and ambient lighting. Lively handling and a high-tech cabin make the EV6 a truly segment-redefining electric vehicle. The EV6 starts at $42,115 for the Light RWD and ranges up to $61,000 for the 576 horsepower GT AWD. Kia sweetens the deal with a $7,500 tax credit. For cutting-edge performance and technology, the EV6 is difficult to beat.

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Kia EV5

Expected Starting MSRP: $45,500

Kia’s second E-GMP model – the new EV5 compact electric SUV – will slot below the EV6 when it is launched in late 2023 from now. The EV5 will compete with EVs like the Chevrolet Equinox EV and offer two battery options: a base 58 kWh pack and a larger 77.4 kWh battery shared with the EV6. Expect RWD and AWD configurations plus DC fast charging compatibility. The EV5 should deliver up to 300 miles of range. Its distinctive styling will take cues from the eye-catching EV6, with creative lighting and a “Digital Tiger Face” grille.

Estimated Performance Specs

Inside, you will find recycled and plant-based materials along with two 12.3-inch screens. Over-the-air updates will keep the EV5 fresh and up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. The expected all-wheel drive with 380 horsepower performance should make for a thrilling drive with quick acceleration and handling, while its remote smart parking assist feature will let you park or retrieve the vehicle from outside with the tap of a button on the key fob.

With sleek styling and ample range, the Kia EV5 aims to win over families seeking an affordable electric SUV.

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Kia EV9

Expected Starting MSRP: $55,500

As its new flagship three-row SUV, Kia will likely launch the highly-anticipated EV9 early next year. This family-friendly electric vehicle will most probably compete with the likes of the Tesla Model X with seating for up to seven.

The EV9 too will ride on the E-GMP platform and offer RWD or AWD powertrains. Outputs may range from 215 horsepower to 380 horsepower. A 300-mile range will give the EV9 true long-distance capability. Meanwhile, versatile seating, tech-like cameras LiDAR sensors, and a futuristic interior will provide functionality and flair.

Estimated Performance Specs

With model names like Wind and GT-Line, the EV9 promises style to match its substance. Towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and fast charging reinforce its daily usability. The EV9 will bring a new level of luxury to Kia’s EV portfolio as its range-topping flagship SUV.

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Which Kia EV Is Right For You?

With multiple EVs ranging from affordable to luxurious, Kia has models to suit diverse buyers. The value-packed Niro EV delivers ample range at a reasonable price point. For those seeking performance and the latest tech, the award-winning EV6 redefines electric driving. The upcoming EV5 and EV9 will expand Kia’s EV portfolio into hotly contested SUV segments while showcasing innovation in range, charging speed, and interior design. As Kia rolls out new EVs through 2027, expect the brand’s electric models to only get better.

Kia offers some of the most compelling and forward-thinking electric vehicles on the market today. Drivers looking to make the EV switch would be wise to consider what Kia’s growing lineup has to offer. With the EV6 leading the way, Kia is charging ahead in the all-electric future.