“The Kia Niro is a car that you'd never expect to be as perfect as it is. There are safety features that give you peace of mind and the speed is unbelievable. This car is a gem and the price is right.”
2020 Kia Niro EV: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2020 Kia Niro EV is a mild update, not a redesign. Its biggest change is a larger center touchscreen in both trims.
About the 2020 Kia Niro EV
1st-generation Niro EV in the U.S. (introduced for 2019); 2020 is the second model year with minor lighting and infotainment updates.
Kia markets the Niro EV as an easy-to-live-with electric crossover, not a futuristic experiment. The pitch centers on familiar crossover usefulness, a higher seating position, solid cargo space, quick electric torque, and enough range for everyday driving and weekend trips. Compared with some rivals, its identity is more practical and mainstream: it gives shoppers EV efficiency and fast charging in a compact, versatile shape that feels close to a conventional small crossover.
The EX is the practical, well-equipped version, with an 8-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, and DC fast-charging capability. The EX Premium has the same electric powertrain and range but adds a 10.25-inch navigation screen, Harman Kardon audio, ventilated front seats, synthetic leather upholstery, and a sunroof.
What changed, by category
Tech
The EX touchscreen grew from 7 inches to 8 inches. The EX Premium navigation display grew from 8 inches to 10.25 inches.
Styling
Kia restyled the projector headlights with darker inner detailing. Models equipped with rear LED combination lamps also received updated lamp graphics.
2020 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 | ||
| LED Tail Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Subwoofer | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2020 Kia Niro EV compared with the 2019 model?
The main changes for 2020 are larger touchscreens and revised lighting. The EX received an 8-inch touchscreen, the EX Premium received a 10.25-inch navigation display, and Kia updated the headlights and rear LED lamp design.
Was the 2020 Kia Niro EV redesigned?
No, the 2020 Kia Niro EV was not redesigned. It remained part of the first generation and received a mild update focused on its displays and lighting.
Did the 2020 Kia Niro EV’s range or power change from 2019?
No, its range and power carried over. The 2020 model retains a 64-kWh battery, a 201-hp electric motor, front-wheel drive, and an EPA-rated 239-mile range.
Which 2020 Kia Niro EV trim has the 10.25-inch screen?
The 2020 Niro EV EX Premium has the 10.25-inch navigation touchscreen. The EX uses a smaller 8-inch touchscreen.
Is the 2020 Niro EV EX Premium more powerful than the EX?
No, the 2020 EX Premium is not more powerful than the EX. Both use the same 201-hp electric motor, 64-kWh battery, and front-wheel-drive layout; the Premium mainly adds comfort and technology features.
2020 Kia Niro EV Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Kia Niro EV.
4.3
2020 Kia Niro EV
(151 reviews)
“The Kia Niro EV is a great vehicle for those wanting all the benefits of an EV without overpaying for the privilege. I love it! The amount of features that are included give you a feeling of luxury and comfort while still keeping your carbon footprint small. The 293 miles per full charge cover nearly any day to day commute with ease, even through traffic or accident laden roadways.”
“Never have to go to a gas station! Love the comfortable, quiet ride. Have to be careful not to sneak up on walkers/bikers.”
Sources
- kiamedia.com — Models / Niro Ev / 2020
- kiamedia.com — Documenttext / 16039 / Whats New 2020 Niro Ev
- kiamedia.com — Models / Niro Ev / 2019
- kiamedia.com — Niro Ev / 2021 / Whatsnew
- kia.com — Us / Brochures / Brochure Niro Ev 2020
- kiamedia.com — Niro Ev / 2020 / Features
- kiamedia.com — Niro Ev / 2020 / Specifications
- kiamedia.com — Niro Ev / 2021 / Features