At first glance, the Kia Niro has a lot to offer. It’s fuel-efficient, stylish, and reasonably priced. But, unfortunately for the Kia Niro, there are better alternatives out there. Let’s talk about them.

The Toyota Prius is a well-rounded alternative to the Kia Niro

If you’re a stickler for reliability, the Toyota Prius makes for the perfect alternative to the Kia Niro. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Niro earned itself a five out of five predicted reliability rating. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the 2021 Kia Niro. While Consumer Reports gave the Toyota Prius a perfect predicted reliability rating, this year’s Niro could only manage a three out of five predicted reliability rating.  

The Toyota Prius makes for a slightly more fuel-efficient alternative to the Kia Niro too. According to the EPA, the 2021 Toyota Prius delivers an EPA-estimated 54 mpg in the city and 50 mpg on the highway. As for the Niro? The EPA reports that the 2021 Niro can only achieve an EPA-estimated 53 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway. 

For a cheaper alternative to the Kia Niro pick the Hyundai Kona

The Toyota Prius isn’t the only alternative to the Niro that you should be considering. For a cheaper alternative to the Kia Niro, check out the Hyundai Kona. While the Hyundai Kona boasts a base price of $20,500, the Hyundai Kona Electric gets its start at $37,390. Take advantage of federal tax credits for electric vehicles, and you could save up to $7,500 on the Kona Electric.

Unfortunately for the Kia Niro, its base price is slightly higher than that of the Kona’s. Opt for a base model Niro, and you’ll be spending a minimum of $24,690. Opt for the Niro EV instead, and you’ll be spending approximately $39,090. Even if you take advantage of available federal tax credits, which can save you up to $7,500, the Niro remains the more expensive pick of these two options.

Choose the Subaru Crosstrek for a rugged Kia Niro alternative

For another alternative to the Kia Niro, consider the rugged Subaru Crosstrek. For car shoppers in the market for a vehicle that comes equipped with all-wheel drive, the Subaru Crosstrek is the perfect choice. It not only comes standard with all-wheel drive, but it also boasts plenty of ground clearance for taking on uneven terrain. As for the Niro? It’s not available with all-wheel drive.

The Subaru Crosstrek isn’t just a rugged alternative to the Kia Niro either. It’s also cheaper. While a base model Niro will have you spending upwards of $24,690, an entry-level Subaru Crosstrek will only have you spending $22,245. For some new car shoppers, that’s a significant price difference.

Don’t make any decisions before hitting the road for a test drive

If the Kia Niro isn’t the right choice for you, that’s ok. After all, there are plenty of alternatives to the Niro to pick from, and these are just a few of them. As for choosing the best alternative to the Kia Niro for you? That’s going to take a test drive.