Kia recently made a big announcement regarding the 2023 Kia Niro. The 2023 model year will feature a redesign for its three versions: the standard hybrid, PHEV, and EV. While it’s great to have options, the Niro EV does have somewhat of a drawback. Sadly, its range doesn’t live up to that of the competition. 

A look at the 2023 Kia Niro

The 2023 Kia Niro debuted recently at the New York Auto Show, and Car and Driver covered the details of what we know so far about the vehicle.  The three different versions of the Niro that will be available–the electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid– all give the consumer a choice when it comes to questions of energy efficiency and fuel savings. 

This crossover’s standard powertrain will provide 139 horsepower, along with front-wheel drive and an electric motor. Its fuel efficiency has improved from the previous version, going from 49 mpg to 52 mpg. 

Pricing for the different versions of the Niro is not yet available. CNBC explains that the manufacturer has indicated its intention to wait until closer to the vehicles’ release sometime this summer before setting the MSRP. 

How does the 2023 Niro EV’s range compare to competitors?

Those hoping to get the most bang for their buck in terms of fuel savings might be tempted to go for the Kia Niro EV. However, one thing to keep in mind before making such a purchase is how the EV’s range stacks up compared to other models available on the market. 

As we’ve explained previously, the high-end ranges for an EV these days tend to be in the neighborhood of around 330 miles. Tesla is the company best known for regularly producing vehicles with this sort of range. 

Green Car Reports also indicates that vehicles such as the BMW i4, BMW iX, Cadillac Lyriq, Ford F-150 Lightning, and others can all be expected to provide ranges over 300 miles. This means that the Niro EV leaves something to be desired when it comes to the question of driving distance between charges. Its current range is only 253 miles. 

The hybrid or PHEV models might make for better choices for some, particularly if they regularly make long drives. The Niro hybrid targets a 53 mpg combined rating from the EPA, which would certainly go a long way toward savings on fuel.

The 2023 Niro looks a lot different from the 2022 model

The 2023 Kia Niro EV will be the start of the vehicle’s second generation, and according to Car and Driver, it will look pretty different from the crossover’s previous iteration.

First, there’s the question of size. The 2023 Niro will be larger than the previous version, thanks to a longer wheelbase and a wider frame. The result will be more room for passengers and cargo, so those looking for extra roominess would do well to consider the new generation Niro over the first-gen model.

The second-generation Niro’s styling has been modified as well. Its new look takes after the HabaNiro concept car and will offer many different trim color customization possibilities. 

Then there’s the new Niro’s interior, which also comes with several added touches. These include the 10.3-inch touchscreen and a digital gauge cluster, along with a rotary shift knob. 

The new Kia Niro is generating a lot of buzz for all that it has to offer. While the Niro EV’s range might not be the greatest on the market, it still makes a solid choice for anyone looking for a crossover that won’t break the bank on fuel costs.