The 2026 Kia Niro EV returns as the entry point to the brand’s battery electric lineup, slotting below the EV6. All models have a single electric motor powering the front wheels backed by a 64.8-kWh battery pack. Every Niro EV makes 201 hp and 188 lb-ft of torque, while the EPA rates its driving range at 253 miles.
Kia offers the 2026 Niro EV in two trims: Wind and Wave. The former comes very well equipped out of the gate. It includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, a 10-way power driver’s seat, and heated front seats. Both trims include dual 10.25-inch displays, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a full suite of driver assistance technologies.
2026 Kia Niro EV: A Bad Value?
Meanwhile, the Wave trim includes ventilated front seats, a10-way power front passenger’s seat, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and Digital Key 2.0 for $46,195. The Wave trim also includes Highway Driving Assist II, which includes automatic lane changing capability. For an extra $1,300, you can add the Preserve package. That adds a heat pump plus heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a battery warmer, depending on the trim. All told, a fully loaded Niro checks in at $47,495 with all packages checked off. Add $395 for a premium exterior color and an extra $195 for the gray C-pillar.
For the money, the Niro EV is somewhat pricy. In fact, larger EVs like the Subaru Trailseeker and Uncharted, Hyundai IONIQ 5, Nissan Leaf, and others cost similar or less money. Most importantly, all of those cars have more power and a longer driving range. As a result, the Niro EV feels expensive for what you get. Furthermore, it lacks certain features like a surround-view camera system, which its competitors offer.
Expect a refresh to arrive soon, likely for the 2027 model year.
Source: Kia
