Kia Niro Displays Satisfaction-Gleaning Domination in J.D. Power Electric Vehicle Ownership Study for 2nd Year Running

Here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis as the spring approaches and all our customers are ready for news regarding new models, the oncoming changes regarding innovations in electrification have provided even more exciting things to report on for the season! Our Kia Niro EV has now taken top honors in the J.D. Power 2022 Electric Vehicle Experience Ownership Study mass-market category for the second year in a row. J.D. Power surveyed more than 8,000 electric vehicle owners on critical factors that include battery range, cost-of-ownership, service experience, styling and driving enjoyment to gauge satisfaction.

We have always prided ourselves on offering a diverse line of vehicles with convenient services that always provided an A+ ownership experience. We have now enjoyed consecutive wins in the EVX Ownership Study that reinforces our leadership as we now prepare to introduce additional electric passenger vehicles, MPVs, and SUVs across several areas by 2027. The highly-publicized “Plan S” strategy promises to deliver 14 new EVs globally across multiple categories by 2027. The Niro EV will now open many various possibilities for drivers who already love our assortment of popular crossovers, but are also seeking the benefits of electric energy.

Now that the Niro has dominated for two years in a row for highest ownership satisfaction, the stage is set to fully exceed EV owner expectations, and we now know that we will consistently and confidently claim to give EV owners the best experience in current existence. Boasting a look that is so much better than more bland EV box shapes, a strong roster of standard equipment, and an all-electric range of around 239 miles, it also added a 10.3-inch touchscreen to replace the previous 8.0-inch base unit.

Also now coming with built-in navigation, a Harman/Kardon audio system, and SiriusXM satellite radio, the onboard electric motor produces 201 horsepower, which is sent through the front wheels by a one-speed direct-drive transmission. The Niro EV gets to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and can be driven with just one pedal thanks to regenerative braking. There are four different levels of regeneration that can be toggled between using the steering-wheel-mounted paddles. 

The 240-volt connection is said to fully charge the battery in about 9 hours, and the standard DC fast-charge capability can provide an 80 percent charge in just one hour with a 100-kW connection. Upgrading to the EX Premium trim adds on features such as ventilated front seats, a power sunroof, and wireless charging. The Car and Driver staff were able to fit 18 carry-ons behind the front seats, and enjoyed the massive selling point of the 10-year/100,000 – mile powertrain warranty.