Kia Niro EV S, EX, Wind & More Trims

First-generation models mainly use EX and EX Premium, with S joining for 2022. Since the 2023 redesign, the lineup uses Wind and Wave. Wind is the practical core trim, while Wave adds comfort and technology.

On newer Niro EVs, Wind has the core battery, range, dual screens, heated seats, power driver’s seat, and power liftgate. Wave keeps that foundation and adds items such as ventilated front seats, a sunroof, premium audio, extra parking technology, and vehicle-to-load power.

Yes. In the second-generation lineup, both use a 201-hp front motor and 64.8-kWh battery, with an EPA-rated 253-mile range. Wave focuses on added comfort and technology rather than more performance or distance.

No. In recent years, Wind includes dual 10.25-inch displays, navigation, phone mirroring, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, wireless phone charging, highway driving assistance, and a power liftgate.

No. On newer models, Wave uses the same motor, battery, and range as Wind. It is the comfort-focused trim, adding cabin upgrades and more advanced convenience, parking, and highway-assistance features.

Wave has both features in the newer lineup. On first-generation models, EX Premium fills a similar role with a power sunroof and heated and ventilated front seats. Equipment can vary by model year, so compare the specific vehicle.

On newer models, Wave has the vehicle-to-load inverter. It lets the battery supply electricity to compatible external devices, which Wind does not include as part of its standard equipment.

In recent years, Wind has Highway Driving Assist with adaptive cruise control. Wave steps up to Highway Driving Assist II, which adds automatic lane-change assistance. These systems assist the driver; they do not make the car self-driving.

Wind is the straightforward pick in the newer lineup. It has the same 253-mile range as Wave, plus heated seats, navigation, phone mirroring, adaptive cruise control, highway assistance, and a power liftgate.

Wave is the comfort-focused choice among newer models. It adds ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a sunroof, and Harman Kardon audio while keeping the same power and range as Wind.

For 2022, S was the simpler entry trim with an 8-inch touchscreen. EX kept the same battery and 201-hp motor but added a 10.25-inch navigation screen, Harman Kardon audio, wireless phone charging, and stronger highway-assistance features.

On first-generation models, EX Premium emphasizes cabin comfort rather than extra power. Depending on the year, its upgrades include a power sunroof, synthetic leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, upgraded lighting, and interior mood lighting.

No. EX belongs to the first-generation lineup, while Wind replaced the old naming structure with the 2023 redesign. Both serve as practical mainstream trims, but their cabins, screens, range, and equipment reflect different generations.

On newer Wind and Wave models, dual 10.25-inch displays are standard. First-generation layouts vary more: the 2022 S uses an 8-inch touchscreen, while EX and EX Premium use a 10.25-inch screen with navigation. Earlier model years may have smaller displays.