“Plug in electric is awesome but this car has less room than a standard 4 door sedan and the front wheel traction is poor.”
2019 Kia Niro EV: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2019 Kia Niro EV is an all-new model and the first Niro EV sold in the U.S. Its headline change is the arrival of a fully electric Niro crossover with 239 miles of EPA-estimated range.
About the 2019 Kia Niro EV
First-generation Niro EV, first year sold in the U.S.
Kia presents the Niro EV as an everyday small crossover for drivers who want electric range without giving up familiar utility. Its main appeal is a practical upright cabin, useful cargo space, quick electric response, and fast-charging capability in a compact footprint that looks and feels more like a normal crossover than an experiment. Compared with rival EV hatchbacks, it leans toward comfort, ease of use, and real-world versatility.
Kia positioned the EX as a well-equipped starting point, with smartphone integration, automatic climate control, and a broad set of driver aids. The EX Premium keeps the same electric powertrain but adds a larger navigation screen, premium audio, leather-trimmed and heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, a sunroof, and wireless phone charging.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The Niro EV launches with a 64-kWh battery, a 201-hp front electric motor, and 239 miles of EPA-estimated range. CCS DC fast-charging hardware and a 7.2-kW onboard charger are standard.
Safety
Every 2019 Niro EV has adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping and lane-centering help, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Tech
The EX has a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX Premium has an 8-inch navigation touchscreen, Harman Kardon audio, and wireless phone charging.
2019 Kia Niro EV specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Electric Motor | Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | Single-Speed Reduction Gear |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Trunk/Cargo | 53 cu-ft | 53 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36 in | 36 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 239 | 239 |
| MPGe Combined | 112 | 112 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Subwoofer | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2019 the first U.S. model year for the Kia Niro EV?
Yes. The 2019 model is the first Kia Niro EV sold in the U.S. and marks the launch of the first-generation electric crossover.
How far can the 2019 Kia Niro EV travel on a charge?
The 2019 Kia Niro EV has an EPA-estimated range of 239 miles. Both EX and EX Premium use the same 64-kWh battery and 201-hp front electric motor.
Does the 2019 Kia Niro EV support DC fast charging?
Yes. Every 2019 Niro EV has CCS DC fast-charging hardware and a 7.2-kW onboard charger.
What is the difference between the 2019 Niro EV EX and EX Premium?
The EX Premium mainly adds cabin comfort and technology rather than more power or range. Its upgrades include an 8-inch navigation touchscreen, Harman Kardon audio, leather-trimmed and heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, a sunroof, and wireless phone charging.
What driver-assistance features are standard on the 2019 Kia Niro EV?
Every 2019 Niro EV has adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping and lane-centering help, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.
2019 Kia Niro EV Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2019 Kia Niro EV.
4.3
2019 Kia Niro EV
(133 reviews)
“I wish it had a longer range of driving. And I feel like the max driving range is not feasible. Nobody drives with no A/C or driver amenities and not over 60 mph for 280 miles.”
“Look past the fact that it's a Kia and not a Tesla. It's a phenomenal commuter car that will take care of you and keep you comfortable for a much better price.”