In the past several years, Kia has taken the stage as the up-and-coming manufacturer among sporty sedans and SUVs. With new options like the Kia Telluride and Kia Stinger taking over headlines with high ratings and even higher reviewers from new owners, it is easy to see how the manufacturer has made quite a name for itself. But, they offer more than just higher-priced borderline luxury options, Kia also offers more affordable choices, like the 2021 Kia Niro.

How much does the 2021 Kia Niro cost?

The 2021 Kia Niro starts at the more affordable price range of the brand, with an MSRP for the base model Niro starting at $25,865. There are several trim-level options available, which can bring the sticker price up as high as $34,125. For the higher price, you can get features like heated and ventilated front seats and wireless charging, but that does bring the vehicle up in cost to a different market with more options for the same price.

How does it rank with Consumer Reports?

With an overall score of 62 out of a possible 100, the 2021 Kia Niro doesn’t make the list of recommended vehicles on the Consumer Reports website. According to the site, the Niro does well to balance what it has to offer for the price. This includes responsible fuel economy, reported at 43 mpg overall, and a surprising amount of space and cargo capacity. But, it doesn’t come without its own downfalls, such as its less than thrilling acceleration and its underwhelming options and features for the lower, more affordable trim level options.

Edmunds agrees

On some occasions, major reviewers like Consumer Reports and Edmunds disagree over how a car should be ranked, but that isn’t the case for the 2021 Kia Niro. It isn’t as highly ranked as several other options for the same price, but it does receive a slightly more favorable rating on this platform than the other, with an overall score of 7.7 out of 10. Reviewers agree with the same points made over the lackluster acceleration but give the vehicle the benefit of the doubt, highlighting the nimble handling and some key features many buyers are looking for:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Keyless entry
• Dual-zone climate control

The 2021 Kia Niro might not be the most exciting option on the market, but it offers plenty for the price, making it a good deal if you’re looking to keep things simple and affordable. According to these two major reviewers, the vehicle offers what some buyers are looking for and balances that out with options that some buyers are willing to sacrifice for the price.