Like its predecessor, the 2023 Kia Niro EV will be available in hybrid, plug-in, and full EV forms. No mpg or range estimates were announced with the new Niro, but we assume there will be improvements in all areas.
For reference, the current Niro hybrid will get up to 50 mpg combined (53 city/48 highway), and the EV has a maximum range of 239 miles on a single charge.
If the 2023 Kia Niro EV isn’t on your radar, you’re not alone. Though it occupies the small hatchback/SUV space that everyone seems to be eyeing these days, it’s actually Kia’s lowest-selling model of 2021 — not counting the discontinued Cadenza and K900.
The problem isn’t choice — the Niro is available in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric variants. Rather, we think the Niro’s bland exterior and ho-hum interior design play a big part in the buying public’s general apathy.
It seems Kia was acutely aware of the 2023 Kia Niro EV’s image problem when it set about designing the new one because the redesigned 2023 Niro is as eye-catching as the current car is vanilla. The new 2023 Kia Niro EV is a from-the-ground-up redo with fresh looks and a modern interior to boot.
The hatchback/SUV has a more squat stance than before, with a rear that features black paneling for a two-tone look and a front with an all-new grille and daytime running lights that look like an electrocardiogram — Kia calls them “heartbeats.” It does everything right that the old car did wrong, and we look forward to seeing it in the metal.
For 2023, Kia introduces the second generation of its diverse Niro family, which again includes an all-electric model. As with its hybrid and plug-in-hybrid counterparts (reviewed separately), the 2023 Kia Niro EV receives a new look inside and out. However, we’re still waiting on further information about its powertrain, interior dimensions, and roster of features.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the 2023 Niro EV will look completely different than its predecessor. Kia’s designers have incorporated angled surfaces into the door panels and top of the dashboard. The digital instrument panel and infotainment display highlight the cabin’s technical vibe.
The steering wheel has a distinctive two-spoke design, and the center console hosts a rotary shifter along with other miscellaneous controls.
Kia says the interior contains recycled materials, and elements from eucalyptus leaves were used to make the seats. Small-item storage appears to be plentiful, with what looks to be large door pockets and useful cubbies in the center console.
As more information becomes available on the 2023 Kia Niro EV, we’ll update this story with more details about:
- Engine, Transmission, and Performance
- Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
- Infotainment and Connectivity
- Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
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