More than 1000 hp, four motors, huge batteries: the superlatives of electric mobility make an impression, but are not necessarily useful. The Kia Niro EV, on the other hand, remains pleasingly down-to-earth. However, its fast-charging technology isn’t fast enough and the autobahn range isn’t the greatest.

Since 2016, Kia has had a borderline opponent between the SUV and compact genres in its range with the Niro. With German car customers, the Korean has so far only aroused moderate interest, probably also because of its conservative design. That could change with its new edition, which has been available since summer. In addition to a much bolder look, the EV version also offers an electric drive that is reasonably dimensioned for everyday use.

Thanks to the 4.42 meter long five-door body and 2.72 meter wheelbase, the new Niro impresses with a generous amount of space. At the front there is a relaxation seat for the passenger side, which is subject to a surcharge and invites you to linger in a reclining position during longer charging breaks. You can also sit comfortably in the rear without a cardan tunnel.

The backrest of the rear seat can be adjusted in inclination or folded down. Then the luggage compartment grows from 475 to almost 1400 liters. There is also space for odds and ends under the trunk floor, and there is a 20-liter frunk for the charging cable under the bonnet. There is more than enough room for development for shopping, family and many hobbies.

If this is not enough, a trailer weighing up to 750 kilograms can be attached to a coupling available in the manufacturer’s accessories shop. If you want to go out into the great outdoors with the Niro EV, you always have an adapter with a 230-volt socket on board that provides power from the traction battery to operate the electric grill or cool box.

The battery with around 65 kWh is generously dimensioned. According to WLTP, the range is 460 kilometers, in city traffic it should even be over 600 kilometers. However, only around 300 kilometers remained on fast motorway tours. So long-distance travelers shouldn’t be too far or in a hurry, because at a speed of 130 km/h consumption increases to a good 20 kWh. If the on-board navigation system schedules a charging break, refueling is faster because the on-board electronics then thermally condition the battery for optimum charging performance.

But even on hyper chargers, 80 kW is the highest of emotions. Without preconditioning, significantly less energy actually flows into the battery. For a charge of up to 80 percent at fast charging stations, you should plan 45 minutes and maybe a nap on the relaxation seat.

If you disregard the charging performance and motorway range, you will experience the Niro EV as a pleasant long-distance car. It glides along comfortably and bindingly, is quiet and powerful. The sprint to 100 km/h is completed in less than 8 seconds, with a maximum speed of around 170 km/h, as is usual with electric cars with a single-speed gearbox. In any case, one engine with 150 kW/204 hp is completely sufficient. Whether in eco, normal or sport mode: the 1.7-ton truck is always experienced as lively. Two, three or even four engines? In the Niro EV, which only has one engine, you really don’t feel any desire for the power splurge of the e-car world.

However, the versatile and networked infotainment system could work a little faster. Apple and Android smartphones can be connected to the on-board system without any further antics. In a special shell, the phone can also suckle Stromlings wirelessly. In any case, the Niro pleases with its tidy and functional digital cockpit as well as with impeccable workmanship and chic materials. Some of these are comparatively environmentally friendly, such as the headlining, which is made from 56 percent recycled paper fibers, or the seat covers made from bio-polyurethane with proportions of eucalyptus leaves.

There are also many assistance systems on board. However, not all the little helpers are included as standard, which may come as a bit of a surprise given the base price of 47,600 euros. However, Kia only offers a few optional equipment packages, with which the price can be increased to a maximum of just over 53,000 euros for full equipment.

Technical specifications