We have been incredibly impressed with how well drivers are taking to the EV6 here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, as review staff and experts alike have claimed it is one of the best values on the market today. It has been just a little under two years since the latest-generation Niro was introduced in combustion, hybrid, and all-electric variants, with the newer model appearing on the scene with the traits everyone loves from the EV6 laced with a more traditional and compact SUV.
The Carscoops.com review team was excited to try the Niro out for an entire week and concluded that it’s a very well-put-together EV with its own sense of distinct charm and candor. Their test model was the EV GT-Line, which derives power from an electric motor cranking out 201 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque through the front wheels. You’ll zip rapidly up to 60 mph in just 7.8 seconds, and enjoy an interior that is like the EV6’s. One of the telltale and most distinctive features is the two-spoke steering wheel with integrated paddle shifters, on board to control the regenerative braking system.
USB-C ports are located on the rear of the front seats, along with a 2.6 kW power socket directly under the rear seats that usefully supports all vehicle-to-load duties. Any daily drive or falling leaves-inspired holiday excursion will fare as “good to go” with alloy sport pedals, customizable ambient lighting, an 8-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system, and a 10-inch head-up display. The Carscoops team was very satisfied with how efficient the Niro was on their first 36-mile drive, and over the week proved to average 13.5 kWh/100 km on a mix of suburban highways and roads.
This solidified the range claim that the car can travel 286 miles on the WLTP cycle, which is improved even further with the brake regen situated in the highest setting. This is the type of vehicle that is very easy to get accustomed to, regardless of if you have experience with EVs or not, and consistently acts as light on its feet. Even though the Niro weighs in at 3,807 lbs, every turn and off-the-line acceleration is spry, calculated, and nimble. The brake regeneration performs at just as top rate a quality in the Niro EV as it does in the EV6, and it is tough to discern just when the regen transitions to mechanical braking.
You’ll notice a very pleasant, hushed character when cruising at highway speeds, also blocking out pesky wind and tire noise. The Edmunds.com review team loved the Niro’s penchant for “granting you some of the space you want out of an SUV that comes nicely wrapped up in a smaller footprint.” This is an excellent option for anyone searching for a great-looking vehicle that can still effectively nail down an EPA-estimated 49 mpg, while getting you around with a sense of efficiency. One delighted reviewer hailing from the St Louis metro claimed that her high marks for her recent purchase went to the amazingly comfortable seats, which made her life easier by remembering her favorite and most ergonomically sound settings.
