Kia Niro EV Standard Range

Overview

The 2022 Kia Niro Standard Range, as detailed in our specifications, represents the entry-level electric offering from Kia for this model year, though primarily documented for the EU market. This compact SUV aimed to deliver practical, zero-emissions motoring. As a discontinued model with its production ending in 2022 and specific market availability outside the US, US pricing for this exact "Standard Range" configuration isn't available from our data. It packed a smaller battery for urban efficiency, offering a gateway to Kia's EV lineup before the next-gen Niro arrived.

What's New for 2022?

For the 2022 Kia Niro Standard Range, this model year marked the end of its production run as this specific configuration was discontinued. It largely carried over the features and specifications from its 2019 debut. Think of it as a final bow for this particular efficient, shorter-range variant of the first-generation Niro EV. Major updates were reserved for the all-new Niro generation that followed. So, no massive changes for this swan song model, just consistent, reliable electric performance as it bowed out.

Design & Exterior

The 2022 Niro Standard Range sports a familiar, friendly compact SUV silhouette – less shouty than some EV rivals. Its distinctive closed-off "tiger-nose" grille subtly hints at its electric heart. Key dimensions are a city-friendly 172.2 inches in length, 71.1 inches in width (sans mirrors), and 61.4 inches in height, making it a breeze to park. While not a radical design, its clean lines, aero-friendly wheels, and unique blue accents (often found on Kia EVs) give it a smart, eco-conscious look on the road.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Niro Standard Range offers a sensible and spacious cabin for five, with a focus on functionality. Materials are generally durable, and the layout is user-friendly. You'd typically find an intuitive touchscreen infotainment system, likely an 8-inch unit in this trim, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For your bits and bobs, it boasts 18.5 cubic feet of trunk space, expanding to a very useful 53 cubic feet when you fold the rear seats flat. No frunk storage is specified for this model, though.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Niro Standard Range is powered by a single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor delivering 100 kW (around 134 hp) and a punchy 291 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. This setup allows for a 0-60 mph dash in a respectable 9.5 seconds, with a top speed of 96 mph – plenty for daily driving. Expect a smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride, prioritizing ease of use over outright sportiness. Adjustable regenerative braking helps to maximize range and offers a near one-pedal driving experience in its strongest setting.

Range, Battery & Charging

Equipped with a 39.2 kWh usable battery, this Niro Standard Range offers a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of 153 miles, making it a solid choice for city dwellers and daily commuters. It boasts an efficiency of 3.9 mi/kWh. Charging at home via its standard 7.2 kW on-board AC charger takes roughly 5 to 6 hours for a full top-up. For quicker pit-stops, DC fast charging is supported up to 44 kW, which can replenish a significant portion of the battery in around 40 minutes. For the US market, it would utilize a CCS Type 1 port.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While US-specific NHTSA ratings for this EU-focused trim aren't listed, the Kia Niro EV platform has performed well in safety tests, earning a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. You can expect a suite of Kia’s Drive Wise driver-assistance systems. Standard features would likely include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. Depending on the exact market packaging, features like Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Smart Cruise Control might have been available, enhancing safety and convenience for the driver.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Were this Niro Standard Range officially sold in the US, it would likely mirror Kia's excellent warranty: a 5-year/60,000-mile basic coverage and an industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery and powertrain. EVs generally boast lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts, meaning less scheduled servicing. Kia’s reputation for reliability provides additional peace of mind, making it a sensible long-term proposition, even as a used vehicle if one were imported or similarly specced.