2019 Kia Niro EV Review: The Mr. Rogers of electric vehicles…
2019 Kia Niro EV Review: The Mr. Rogers of electric vehicles…It’s a phenomenon whose existence has been confirmed by study after study. For many consumers, the idea of switching to EVs is equal part intriguing and anxiety-causing. Kia has done its best to attenuate EV-phobia by producing use-friendly EVs that look and drive like “real” cars, for instance the 2019 Kia Niro EV, the electric powertrain of which is geared for ease of use and of comprehension. This crossover is convivial and winningly respectful of the environment, and it makes the transition to electric vehicles less stressful for EV-phobes. And those studies have shown that’s no small matter if automakers want to lure buyers over to electric vehicles.
Modern and frill-less
In line with this approach, there are few big changes to be found in the EV version of the Niro, which looks for the most part just like the regular version of the model. Among the few esthetic particularities, the most notable is the front grille, here contoured in blue; the back end gets the same touch.
The crossover also gets energy-saving 17-inch wheels fitted with the base version’s Michelin tires, as well as LED headlights and, on the SX Touring version, LED rear lights as well.
Other change that owners will want to be aware of: the outlet for charging is found at the front of the vehicle. And it gets its own LED light so that users can see what they’re doing at night when they want to plug the vehicle in to be charged.
Well-equipped, like a true Kia
As is its wont, Kia has included a generous supply of standard features on the Niro EV, which gets things like heated outside mirrors, turn signals inside the housings of those mirrors and special aerodynamic wiper blades and other non-bargain-basement items.
