New Kia Niro EV 2023 -vs- Kia EV6 | Is it worth the stretch?

[@MrGreengiant6]

The EV6 is amazing. I love the styling and the tech on it. However, I’m 6ft 3 and like to sit fairly upright. Ev6 is a huge squeeze for me. Head touching the roof. The Niro EV has waaaaay more head hight for me. Like loads more! It’s more boring, cheaper but so much more “family” practical

[@IRu1zI]

good to know.. i was gonna order the ev6 but ended up ordering the niro ev

[@nealeTH]

Having just taken delivery of an EV6, it really is a absolutely stunning vehicle. Until you see it in the flesh, you don’t realise how incredible it looks. The pictures and videos don’t do it justice. It does feel like the next generation of vehicles. But then I am biased.

[@devongee1776]

I agree. The pictures and even the videos don't tell the story with the EV6. Particularly in GT and GT-line form: In person it is wonderful to look at. So pleasing to the eye from any angle, really. Something that I think can't even be said for the Kia Stinger. Which did have some angles that were kind of meh.

[@jjmanzano9]

I just saw one on the road and I couldn’t stop staring; it’s a great looking car! However, I would need to test drive both the Niro and EV6 before making a decision

[@3eschmitt]

I honestly prefer the Niro design to the EV6. I think it looks amazing. And the EV6 is too big. We need to have more small electric car options in America (of course because of the American obsession with massive cars they don't get exported to the states).

[@nickmorgan19457]

I know they say it doesn’t matter but the lack of rear wiper just sucks for me with most of the new EVs.

[@airvay9637]

I have ordered the top version of the Niro EV 2023 with all the safety features, the HUD and the sunroof. It was a no-brainer as far as I was concerned. As most of the charging will be in my own garage, charging time means nothing to me.

[@thomasmahnken]

Well, like always ist’s a matter of preferences and taste. Here in germany there‘d be a point missing in the comparison which is: Efficiency! The Niro - at least the former model - beats the ev6 by a lot. While I was thinking about waiting for the new Niro EV I decided neither of the cars to be my choice. I bought the „Old“ e-Niro. Not missing any additional Features but enjoying the fact that it‘s shorter in length with enough Space for my needs. Just my 2 cents.

[@Tom55data]

Yep, WLTP references means 4.5miles/kWh compared with 3.4kWh, that is a big difference.

[@TommyD1021]

I just picked up a '22 Niro EV (e-Niro) and have no regrets. I sat in the EV6 and it is laughably large. It looks better in photos than in person, IMO, because photos hide its ridiculous length. The length of the vehicle is unnecessary and despite it being built on a dedicated EV platform, that platform was designed for a much larger vehicle (think mid-large SUV) so it is still compromised like was mentioned about the Niro in this review. I absolutely agree that the lack of efficiency in the EV6 was also another deterrent. Sure it may be faster than the Niro, but I don't need to get to 60mph in 4-5 seconds. I need range. Bigger car, larger/heavier battery, less efficient and more expensive lead me to skip the EV6 and get the Niro.

[@R56Cooper]

The "old" e-niro is a great vehicle for the money! Quick off the line and fun to drive! I just wish it had Vehicle 2 Load feature for camping!

[@thomasmahnken]

@@R56Cooper oh yeah, that'd have been the killer feature :-)

[@R56Cooper]

@@thomasmahnken such an underrated feature V2L!

[@johnblythe6271]

EV6 is a lovely looking car, but its a huge vehicle. Just too big for my liking. Also I hear its efficiency is questionable. The charging infrastructure isn't really there to take advantage of the tech just yet either. The Niro EV is a nice upgrade. Pricing fir me will be key to whether I'd consider it. Has some great colour options and I love the C-Pillar stripe, it's a confident design choice and separates it from the huge number of single colour rivals. The battery tech is both disappointing and intriguing. Its not much bigger, but has a new charging system to charge at the higher rate for longer, which pulls the overall time down but not by much really, 10min less I believe. Still I'd plump for Niro over EV6 atm.

[@martyptx]

Been looking to replace my 2020 Hyundai Kona for a few months. A month or two ago, I decided to focus my search on EVs only. I found and test drove 2022 Niro EV EX premium, which I liked a lot, but the price MSRP + dealer installed options was $51,605, which I thought was too high. And with the new version coming out, I thought that I would wait. Then, a few days later, I found an EV6 was being delivered to my local Kia dealer. And, I was there to meet it after it completed new dealer preparation (I was first in line.) It was a Wind RWD model, price after dealer installed options was $52,500, less than $1k more than the Niro EV. And I bought it and absolutely love it. What an awesome car.

[@TassieEV]

Martyn!?!?!? OMG, WoooooHooooo wondered where you had gone on KZbin. Love your podcasts including on InsideEV's weekly podcast. I am probably one of the few that like the C-Pillar on the Niro EV and want it in a different colour to the car. The other thing is supply as in Australia no more EV6 until 2025, the Niro EV could be less of a problem plus cost the Niro EV is affordable for me the EV6 forget it. The Niro EV can also tow of course and is perfect for my needs at 750kg. Performance wise doesn't affect me whatsoever, couldn't careless. I am totally loving the look of the new Niro EV and definitely is #1 on my list for replacement of my classic 28 Ioniq when it comes off lease in 2yrs. Plus the EV6 my head will rub the roof whereas I have been in the current e-Niro and there is plenty of headroom. Thanks Martyn! :)

[@boyanbc]

The best option? Actually, you did mention it: Buy an used E-Niro. I just did (2 months ago) and it's incredible. Even if its 3 yo and has 70.000 kms on it. I still average > 400 km range even in the Dutch cold spring. Easily. Definitely good for some more years & miles.

[@Ago468]

Used e-Niros are incredibly overpriced. In Holland 2019 models cost 37.000 euros!! For this you can get 2000 euros subsidy from the government. A new e-Niro costs 40.000 euros and you can get 3350 subsidy. The gap is so small that you must be out of your mind to buy a used one.

[@boyanbc]

@@Ago468 I bought my 3 years old for 33.500 prior subsidies, here in the Netherlands. New one is way over 40k and good luck getting one anytime prior 2023 (if you didn't order it earlier)

[@Sundaws]

@@boyanbc used e niro is expensive and also new niro ev 22 will be cheaper then a used e-niro

[@chrisp7214]

@@Ago468... In the UK ALL subsidies have been removed!

[@Ago468]

@@chrisp7214 Why is that??

[@Antiguan_Dart]

Great review Martyn - just what I’ve been waiting to see. With a windfall last November I ordered a AWD GTLineS w/ heat pump KIA EV6 which then had an anticipated delivery date of March 2022. At the beginning of the year that became June 2022 and last month became December 2022! I’m keeping an eye out for any competition which might leap frog the EV6. Yes it’s expensive but when you look at model Y, Audi E-tron, Jaguar Ipace et al for similar spec they are commanding £10K-15K again! I think the EV6 simply represents an incredibly modern EV with yes a competitive price. I suspect most buyers/leasers will be minted retired persons, business owners/fleet operators and those persons who have come into a windfall. It’s certainly not within reach of the average UK salary. V2L, public rapid charger speeds (with the right charger - some 150kW emblazoned chargers actually will only max to 100 kW with the EV6), home charging via that 10.9kW on-board converter, the driver assist and comfort tech, the drive-ability and the styling just makes it out-standing in my opinion. I await to see if it will be leap frogged- not for a few years I suspect! I think my order is going to stand.

[@kiae-nirodiariesencore4270]

Great summary, looking forward to getting some reviews to the new Niro when it arrives in showrooms. We’ve owned our e-Niro since March 2019, one of the first to come into France. In 3 years and 60,000 km it has been pretty much faultless, we love the car and enjoy driving it. We are retired so we hope this will be along term ownership experience. My dealer here is already offering me a test drive in the new one so that will be interesting. The current e-Niro use SK Innovation batteries, new Niro EV batteries are coming from CATL but it isn’t clear if they are LFP or ternary batteries. Kia claim a flatter charging curve which is important, sometimes more so than peak charging rates. We did a 2,100 km round trip run to Frankfurt in January and learned a lot about charging speeds and times on that trip. It seems to me that our car is doing everything to protect the battery, charging speeds not maintained at a high level for very long. Will be interesting to see if the new one is better

[@R56Cooper]

Proud '22 e-Niro owner here! I do enjoy the acceleration of our vehicles. I just wish for vehicle 2 load to make the e niro a great car camping vehicle!

[@kiae-nirodiariesencore4270]

@@R56Cooper I thought V2L was part of the new Niro EV package.

[@R56Cooper]

@@kiae-nirodiariesencore4270yes the Vehicle 2 Load is said to come standard on the redesigned 2023 Niro EV! Very much looking forward to this feature-- will make car camping more enjoyable!

[@Ago468]

@@R56Cooper What options do you have for taking along camping equipment? Because a caravan is a no go I presume?

[@R56Cooper]

@@Ago468 with V2L one could bring anything from an airfryer to a microwave to even a projector to screen movies. Also, if the power goes out-- one could power their house with V2L!

[@digitalxtremehg]

I still Love my 2020 KIA Niro EV lol

[@VectorAero]

I'm still not sold on EV's, so PHEV for the win. The Niro PHEV is the right size for people without a large family, it runs smaller cheaper tires, it's lighter, and much cheaper overall.

[@duffman9]

I had this decision to make. I was looking at the e-niro 4+ but was wanting a red one, only black was available and it was to be discontinued. A base "air" model long range rwd ev6 in red was £900 more and delivery was 6 weeks. I bought the ev6 and have been over the moon with it. Drove almost 4000 miles to Norway artic circle and back home, loved it and v2l works great. Then my company started a salary sacrifice scheme for cars so got a Niro-ev 4, top of the range with all the toys. Love the toys, hud, sunroof, hda2, blind spot, forward parking sensors. But the ev6 suspension, noise and sheer driving pleasure is head and shoulders above the Niro. The Niro is good but the ev6 is better. In hindsight and if I had the money I would get a toyed up ev6.

[@robertbell7006]

I had the same dilemma. But when you see the Niro 4 (top Spec) still cheaper by around £2k than the basic EV6 (Air) you would need to spend around an extra £8K to get a similar spec EV6. Thats 20% more. Inside I felt the headroom was better in the Niro for the rear seats. with many touches taken from the EV6 into the Niro. The charging is a little disappointing in the Niro but if you charge at home most of the time this wont really be an issue. Fir me the Niro wins as its a huge saving on the equivalent EV6.

[@saml4537]

Great to see an EV with roof rails. Will come in handy for lugging my kayak and surf boards around 😊 Niro the winner for me.

[@grahambentley3964]

Great video on two great cars, Martyn. I've owned a 2020 Niro EV here in the US, and my wife currently owns a 2022. It's a great car and a great EV (and, I believe, delivers more power from its single front motor than the EV6 does in Light RWD trim, and only a little less than the EV6 does in Wind RWD trim). However, it's overpriced here in the US: $45K for a fully loaded EX Premium, which puts it into price conflict with the lower and mid-level trims of the EV6. Kia needs to deliver the restyled (and that's what it is...mechanically, it's nearly identical) Niro EV, fully equipped, for $35-37K. If Kia does that, they'll have another hit on their hands.

[@R56Cooper]

Completely agree. 2023 Niro EV in the US will be such a deal at under 40k! I have the '22 Niro EV EX trim (has Highway driving assist, and Harman Kardon sound-- pretty much all features except sunroof). That was priced at 42k. If KIA prices the new '23 Niro EV at msrp $37k, it will be a hit!

[@mondotv4216]

Martyn as always on point. I think the other big difference between the two is just efficiency. The EV6 is 2.1 tonnes. The Niro is 1.764 tonnes. They’re both heavy because of the battery but the Niro goes about the same distance as the EV6 with the bigger battery and probably further than the AWD model. Bottom line - if you do a lot of long distance driving pick the EV6 or a similar fast charger like the Ioniq 5 or the Model Y.

[@jackfishcampbell6745]

I have a 19 Niro hybrid and love it . The new Niro and the ev6 are both nice inside . One of the best features on my car is that it has a real shifter .

[@stevieguk8014]

Great video and very timely as I have been pondering this question. I own a First Edition e-Niro and it has been a fabulous car. I love the looks of the EV6 but am not sure I can justify the cost. I am not sure about the look of the new Niro EV but have lived with the current one and it isn’t that pretty. I am waiting to see one at my local dealership in the next few weeks and pricing and availability will influence my decision. The waiting times for a new EV6 are several months plus I understand. So still thinking about EV6 (heart); new Niro EV (head) or keep my existing e-Niro?

[@TOURMANBOB]

Interesting new car and technology. I have been driving an older 2017 Kia Niro hybrid for some years now and for me anyway, the issue of range anxiety has always stopped me from going full electric. At 4.2 kms per 100 litres, this hybrid has phenominal mileage plus NO range anxiety (and has mileage better than my motorcycle). I can't see myself scrounging around looking for a charging dock then waiting forever to have the vehicle charged up enough to continue on my trip. For me, the hybrid compromise is just perfect...superb mileage and very economical to run, with essentially no real difference from a conventional gasoline powered car operationally speaking. Couple of downsides to EV's or hybrids I've found. Mileage in cold weather is not bad but no where near summer mileage. Plus my hybrid is hopeless on snowy roads...I simply don't use this car in the winter (in spite of the fact you'd think at the weight of these vehicles, such would not be the case.. )

[@R56Cooper]

I believe it will all depend on price. I currently have a 2022 Niro EV and love it. The EV6 is a great vehicle but also more money. I think a proper comparison will be between the 58kwh EV6 light and a 2023 Niro EV. Between the two, I would get the larger battery with Vehicle 2 Load. I also prefer the design of the new Niro EV-- like a mix between a Volvo xc40 with an audi R8 C-pillar! Will make an excellent vehicle for roadtrips and car camping! Just hope KIA prices the Niro EV quite a bit lower than the EV6!

[@MrBoytoy1959]

I like the Niro & always have but no budget for the expense. I have a 2013 Grand Caravan that is paid for already

[@Outdoor-Rider]

@All ... Yes, it would be nice for the business driver fraction if the Niro EV could charge with >=125 kw. For me and maybe the other "new e-automobilists" with a somewhat more limited budget, it's just right. Why? Because we charge 94% at the wall box. Neither Taycan, Model3, e-tron, EV6 nor others will top that at home. Instead, they burn significantly more kWh per 100km and are also significantly more expensive to buy. Anyone who wants to finance the express charging surcharge should do so. What counts for me is how much I pay for the 100 km driven route, how low-maintenance it is, whether it is based on tried-and-tested technology (eNiro since 2018 with the best references) and whether maintenance costs me a pig's money. It has to have a frunk, be able to pull bike racks and the small trailer, be comfortable to drive and have useful assistants.

[@Airbag888]

Good video but please add some numbers on screen (especially comparison ones) so it's easier to follow

[@4_the_health_of_it]

I have the 2019 Kia Niro EV, on lease. I hope that when my lease is up that the new Niro EV will be available.

[@Idasfar2013]

In Denmark the price difference is almost non existing 2023 Kia EV6 LR Upgrade 429.900 kr. & 2023 Kia Niro EV Upgrade 424.896 kr. Both cars brand new with 0 km on the clock.

[@chargingabout]

Waiting for the ev4..... seriously they seem to have made the ev6 too heavy, and inefficient (meaning costing more to charge) I have an early Kona with 80000 miles on it, I can fit everything I need, would love a towbar, and reduce charging times. But for most people driving up to 80 miles a day, the odd long trip does not justify. Just hire something for that once a year trip.

[@narrowgauge7.25]

He did not mention the Nero EV tows

[@bidonga]

My EV6 is due to arrive in June. Can’t wait!

[@tomquimby8669]

niro of course, EV6 great for counties with space, USA comes to mind

[@Reddylion]

Yes…

[@andrewwebster6025]

I’ve sat in both but I can’t really afford an EV6 and actually preferred the Nero for it’s smaller size. Still wouldn’t rule out a Soul, only available in one top spec for about same price as the Nero

[@berthogendoorn2133]

We decided to keep our 2020 Soul EV (64kwh) and trade our 2019 Soul EV Luxury for an Ionic 5 AND Long range premium, but when the Kia Niro EV lunches in Summer here in BC Canada, seriously considering to trade on the new Niro EV. Love the Soul, just need more space and more comfortable seats and drive. The 2020 seats are a lot less comfortable than the Soul 2019 or Ionic 5 seats on really any drive.

[@spammusubi9004]

The thing about charging speeds is it's always "Up to" and based on all the reviews the EV6 never gets even close to the max charging levels it claims because the charging architecture isn't even up to snuff to take advantage and likely won't for a few years by then with how fast everything changes, your already looking at next gen vehicles anyway.

[@gregchristie2763]

It's a very good point and it may even make me not buy an EV..n get a hybrid for a couple of years until the charging that work is up to scratch... I think there is a push now to do that.. but I don't think they will keep up with demand...most don't seem to understand how quickly EVs are being adopted ... Only in March several European countries EVs were at the top of sales list.. and when Tesla start delivering ...well !! Wherever we go now we seem to find the charging stations are occupied and there is a que... Absolutely no use to me at all.

[@spammusubi9004]

@@gregchristie2763 if you can leave 2 charge from home and keep your ice car for trips I think it’ll work out just fine.

[@davidmparkes]

Great Review, I am looking to lease a car as its a company one and here is my problem. Both cars are great and I love both for different reasons but in lease terms my budget stretches to a top of the range Kia Niro EV4 with Options (Paint, CPanel and Heat Pump), or a basic Kia EV6 Air (which is by no means basic). I like gadgets therefore the Niro Wins, but I drive alot therefore the fast charging EV6 wins. Damn this is so difficult and I still have not made my decision. I do have a top of the range Toyota Auris Hybrid as my personal Car and that is an amazing car. Basic EV6 or Top of the Range Niro, HELP!

[@rchiuz01]

I have a 2018 Niro Hybrid and love it. I would like to venture into a fully electric Niro. I did see the EV6 on the highway and it looked amazing 😻. I think 🤔 pricing will be the best deciding factor. In the US the EV6 is just too much now. If I were to decide, I would lean more towards the Niro EV.

[@Reddylion]

Niro ev 👍 but it needs 360 degree camera etc.

[@steigmic]

I’m in the US and I started this video torn between the PHEV and EV Niro… Now… this is prying my away from that format and really considering the swap from an ICE vehicle. Both are such great cars.

[@michielb206]

I’m driving the 2019 model, this new one seems better but the biggest issue is the fast charging. It really hasn’t been upgraded while in fact the DC speed is what makes it an unpractical holiday car. 350kw chargers are becoming the norm along the German highway so if they would stick a 250kw dc or better charge option the Niro would be the best of the two hands down.

[@elevator500]

Dedicated roof rails better for Kayak !Niro for the outdoor sports fans !otherwise on ev6 the door frame roofbar attachments are required which damage the door seals and are not as strong or quick to fit .same issue on vw ID3 and VW id5 and Hyundai Ioniq

[@BestElectricVehicle]

That's a really good point James, thanks for sharing. Definitely should be considered by those that might need a roof box, or bike rack, etc. Thanks for the comment!

[@leehouten2345]

I have a 2023 Niro ev 3 and couldn’t ask for a better car. It does everything I need and is a good height for getting in. Never want to climb down into a car again

[@LeonardVanDerMerwe]

Need a Ev with approx 300km range with a price less then $40k

[@markosborne1740]

The new Niro EV is actually priced cheaper than the old one - in Germany, it's coming out just under EUR 40,000 - but the US prices may be different...

[@gregpalmer9949]

We have had a top of the line Niro EV 2019 for about three years. Mostly it is great and the preferred car. We had a Acura RDX (the two cars overlapped for eighteen months) but sold it after we realized that we were no longer using it. The Niro EV is comfortable, but it would be better if the passenger seat was as adjustable as the drivers seat. My wife and I trade off and she has a bad back and I am tall. We really wish it had a trailer hitch and Vehicle-to-Load capability.

[@RichardJoashTan]

For me, I prefer a fully loaded 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV for all of the above... and MORE.

[@chrisp7214]

Mitsubisi have now pulled out of the UK..I had an Outlander PHEV until recently and it was fine for short runs. But I just love my 4+ E-Niro with its 260 milk range....and for its smaller size.

[@EviLEwoK666]

Wait...where do I know that voice from? G'Day from Down Under! Another sub coming through!

[@Reddylion]

Both are a winner kia ev 👍

[@nervousfrog101]

TBH at this rate I will be sticking with my E-niro 4+. If they had boosted the DC charge speed to 100kw+ I might have been tempted with the addition of V2L to upgrade, I will wait to see what they have done with the charging curve rumour is more speed at the top end. I DC charge maybe once or twice a year so I can't justify an EV6 just for the charging speed so unless I was going to get the AWD version I can't see much point in the extra for the EV6 other than bragging rights. Oh they have rated the new Niro for towing so that might be worth it if you need it. It could be very good for camping.

[@Richard-io9xe]

If they had boosted the DC speed to 100kw you might have been tempted, but you DC charge once or twice a year? May I politely suggest that its DC charge speed is not of any material importance to you.

[@philmorbey1827]

Top of the range eV Niro bells and whistles or base long range ev6? Efficency vs flair? Not sure which way to go not much difference in price either?

[@Richard-io9xe]

Honestly, I'd love an EV6 if I could justify spending that much money on one. But in practise, I need to top out a little lower than that, so my eye is on either the EV4 or the Renault Megane E-Tech. I am disappointed with the charging speed in particular on the Niro. A max of 77kw on the existing model is already starting to look dated. The new one drops further to 72kw. In a couple of years, that is going to look very dated tech. It will compete directly on price and segment with cars that are already doing nearly double that (Megane, 130kw). Imagine how out of date that charge speed will look in 3 years.

[@markosborne1740]

You're certainly right on charging speeds, but be careful because the Mégane seems to be much smaller - it's about the length of a VW Golf - so if space matters, the Niro EV will probably be the better choice

[@Richard-io9xe]

@@markosborne1740 I know, it's a quandary for sure. I have a Kia Soul EV and am looking for my next move to include space for road trips with a new dog when our current aged pooch gives up the ghost. He is too old to go anywhere now, but the new one would need to be part of any trip in the UK. I love the look of the Megane and if it wasn't for the dog question it would be my next car for sure. But it is only the same size as an ID.3. The dog can't go in the boot, it is too low down and not a very nice space for a dog. If it went in back seat in a harness, is there room in the boot for luggage? Really not sure. Looked at Ioniq 5. Few grand too much. Looked at Enyaq. Very pricey when you add all the options. The Niro fits the bill but it doesn't excite me at all. Very meh. Guess I am going to have to hold out for an Ioniq 5 in price range or the EV4

[@masterod5728]

I like the Niro look, like a Golf after a light mast.

[@patrickrea6574]

I've had my Niro EV for 6 months and absolutely love it for my daily commute of 250km. I'm waiting for the EV6 simply because I want the slight increase in space and the huge improvement in style and for the all wheel drive. I live in a snow belt here in southern Ontario. For sheer space, we have our Kia Telluride.

[@airvay9637]

You can't have had the Niro EV for 6 months, you have the e-Niro. The earliest you can have a Niro EV is Q3 2022

[@patrickrea6574]

@@airvay9637 in North America, it's always been the Niro EV. Only Europe calls it the E Niro

[@devongee1776]

I honestly love both of the cars. I have an EV6 _because_ the outgoing Niro was not attractive to me whatsoever. But in due time when the new one comes out here, I don't know which one I'd value more.

[@johnskinner3108]

I have driven an EV6 and would buy one in a heart beat. KIA have really got a chance to make a mark on the Australian car market , with some great products. But this is Australia, too small in global terms So supply is being prioritised north of the equator

[@davidcolin6519]

Unfortunately, a used e-Niro doesn't match my requirements, because I need a tow bar. I'm not completely convinced by the interior of the EV6, I'm not a fan of dark interiors, and the back of the EV6 is quite claustrophobic. But there again, I am convinced by the 800V charging, and that would be quite necessary when towing any distance.(Girona, Catalunya to Avignon for example- with a large bike in the trailer). So, what are my options? My current thinking is to go for none of the above, but instead go for the Hyundai Ioniq 5 with the light interior. OTOH, I could just get a used e-Niro and hire a tow car for those rare occasions when I need the towing capacity.

[@johncarson1427]

Just ordered the Niro

[@BestElectricVehicle]

Fine choice John! We had it on test for a week recently and loved it!

[@c.rivers7875]

I was looking at EV's and I had a kia Serento top line as a lease. I wanted to stay with kia look at everything but the nitro was more mid suv were the kia ev6 had a suv/Sudan look. With the winners here needed awd and a great distance drive. After looking at everything I got the EV6 I got to say I pick the right one for me it's great with everything I have never thought was I wrong not to pick the nitro nope. The nitro has been out longer and hasn't come close to the ev6 with everything in my eyes.

[@BestElectricVehicle]

Thanks for sharing that. Good points there and it's hard to argue with them! Suppose some people just prefer the slightly smaller size, with better price and efficiency. It's just great we have so much choice now!

[@robertwaldren6206]

For my purposes, the Niro would probably be just fine, but I just can't wrap my head around the styling. Those oddly-shaped headlights and lower rear lights; the contrasting panel that inexplicably starts halfway between the grill and the front wheel arch and then inexplicably ends just in front of the rear wheel arch; and of course, that contrasting c-pillar...it all adds up to a design which to my eyes looks disjointed and will not age well at all. The EV6 is quite nice, but too expensive, so when the time comes I'll be looking elsewhere.

[@billsherman6129]

(1) To me, the EV6 is a little weird. There are several features that I'd like but that aren't available with RWD. Upgrading to AWD gets less efficiency, so it pulls more charge from the grid. Part of that is because of the larger diameter tires, while another part is the extra motors. In many places in the world the grid isn't green, so that means more CO2 into the atmosphere. Why can't I get a car that's got lots of features AND is efficient? (2) RWD trim level seems to require that I press in the front of the door handles, then grab onto the back. While not a huge issue, it seems a bit fiddly for the cost. My 2005 Prius has got a nice handle. I touch it, It unlocks, then I pull it. Easy peasy! I could even use it while holding things in both hands!

[@melvinjensen978]

I sat in the Niro and liked the seating position better, but was disappointed that they tuned the Niro down as far as speed as not to compete with the EV6. I wish the Niro had fast charging as the EV6 and the speed, because then I would choose the Niro. It is just a more SUV driving experience in the Niro verses the sportscar feel, sitting low to the ground feeling of the EV6.

[@jjmanzano9]

One of my concerns is garage space. The EV6 is slightly longer, correct?

[@stevesmith2529]

It's a lot longer, beautiful; but you will need a fair bit space to hold it in

[@dstrongbow2084]

Hi Martin great review as always. Love the EV6 but the price!! Any plans to review the Toyota Bz4x soon?

[@anxiousappliance]

But whatis the price difference? In the US there will be price overlap unless you go with AWD.

[@gmore70]

I love my Niro. One thing I'm disappointed with the new KIAs is they switched away from the SKI battery pack. So strange. No fires and lots of people with 100,000 km on their older Niro's with next to no degradation. Massive selling point thrown away

[@_TrueDesire_]

i can guarantee that less than 1% of the buyers even know if the batteries are from Korea 😂

[@Lemming1970]

EV6 4wd GT-Line S on order.. Just have the 9 month wait till it's ready!!! 3 months down 6 to go...... the pain is real...

[@112deeps]

In UK EV6 has 77kWh battery with range of 326 miles

[@jonathanperry4091]

I was sold on the EV6 but now I think I want a Niro to replace my Optima Hybrid

[@dcbel]

Interesting analysis Martyn! Two really exciting EVs, the design and the style of car might be what will convince most drivers to pick one over the other! Thank you for sharing! 🔌⚡🚘

[@Andi_mit_E]

My personal winner is the Niro EV. The over all winner at the end is ...KIA! ;-)

[@yvs6663]

to be honest i wonder what the Kona EV is gonna bring to the table. it would be the perfect car for me if they added a V2L system. well not perfect since crossover SUVs aren't my thing but the favorable center of gravity electric cars have does help somewhat.

[@_TrueDesire_]

I'm just disappointed that even the cheaper MG ZS can charge faster :( i also want a 22kW AC option since all the DC chargers are occupied after work where i live. But i prefer the Kona over the Niro so i would be glad if Hyundai could give it a proper upgrade.

[@yvs6663]

@@_TrueDesire_ well the current spec Kona has been around for quite a while and was actually one of the first affordable(-ish) cars with a long range. its also quite a bit more efficent so even if the MG can charge a bit faster, it doesn't make a difference. i don't seriously rely on public charging but a 22kW charger would make a lot of sense with a 60+kWh battery and the fact that most providers in a country i travel though quite a lot still charge by the minute.

[@Ago468]

The Kona is far far smaller than the Niro. It's not suitable for a family.

[@yvs6663]

@@Ago468 good thing I don't have a family and practically never travel w more than 3 ppl in the car. I've sat in the normal Kona behind a driver my size(rather large 6ft person) and it's definitely not a comfortable experience. But a child could probably fit.

[@Richard-io9xe]

New Kona due next year on the same K3 platform as the new Niro EV, and will be significantly bigger than the current Kona.

[@stevesmith2529]

Just pre-ordered the new E-Niro today, sooo looking forward to getting it in a few month. Love the EV6 but a little too pricey for me at present (and my drive is not quite long enough either!)

[@Ago468]

Then why not get the 58 kWh EV6?

[@Richard-io9xe]

@@Ago468 in poverty spec. With a smaller range than the new Niro. And none of the toys. Looks ain't everything.

[@Ago468]

@@Richard-io9xe Besides looks how would you compare the current e-Niro DynamicLine with the new Niro EV DynamicLine? I can get the present model next month while the new model has long and unclear delivery times.

[@Richard-io9xe]

@@Ago468 Not sure what country you are in as I don't recognise the trim name DynamicLine - in the UK, we have 2,3 and 4+ (old model) or 2,3,4 (new model). But the old model had plenty going for it, I just could not go with its looks, so I went for Kia Soul instead which was essentially the same car under the skin. I have a new model Niro on order now and think it is a real step up.

[@Ago468]

@@Richard-io9xe In the Netherlands we have ComfortLine, DynamicLine, DynamicPlusLine, ExecutiveLine as options.

[@brottochstraff]

22kw AC charger would be a good selling point for me. Those public AC chargers are all over the place, and almost nobody is using them because almost nobody has fast AC charger on board.

[@jedoka]

I would like to have thought that the Niro EV would have been ideal, but a max charging speed lower (73kw) than the previous version is a concern - it means a longer time between 20% and 80% charge on longer journeys. I wait to see actual real-world tests before making my mind up.

[@markosborne1740]

The peak speed is disappointing, but apparently Kia have included pre-conditioning, so you hit the peak speed faster, and better battery management, so the higher speeds are maintained for longer. So the overall 20-80% time is several minutes shorter. But yes, if you're regularly doing motorway driving for long distances, you may need a different option. For me, it's fine, with only occasional charging on the motorway when I'll be needing a break anyway. And remember - the faster charging speeds usually mean that the battery is less efficient, as with the EV6

[@chrisnewman7281]

the question really should be is when is the EV6 a better deal? and conversely when is the Neo EV a better deal?

[@therealkickers5166]

Yes Kia have made amazing progress in technology and all, but definitely not in production and shipping. We've been waiting for half a year now fot our EV6. No info, no message, no prognosis. That's just poor.

[@johnshepherd2666]

Thankfor this comparision......its the KIA for me....still waiting for a VW EV down her in OZ.😮 ... or maybe a MG 😅

[@johnmaciejczyk211]

Is there room for a spare tire in trunk

[@alanjenkinson7812]

I don’t think they’re doing a standard range Niro Martyn? For me it depends on lease costs.

[@tomr1094]

Niro with rear windscreen wiper > ev6 wiperless dirty rear window.

[@Outdoor-Rider]

It seems to me that Kia keeps the maximum charging voltage under 80Kw because of the 7-year battery guarantee with 400V technology. European car manufacturers do this differently and thus Kia robs itself of a very important competitive advantage over e.g. ID4 or Enyaq etc. they load faster with 125Kw. VW Representatives even claim that they can raise it to 135 kw at no risk. Kia could beat them all with its effectiveness and if the loading time was improved from 45 to nearly 30 minutes. VW has done it with a SW update that increases the charging capacity of ID3 and other VWs will get this Update too. I am sure, the battery from CATL will be able to do that without any problems. In addition, most users charge 90% anyway because of the cheaper electricity costs at home with 11Kw at their wallbox. EV6 is sporty, flat and inconvenient to enter for bigger or elder people like me, also more expensive but has the better 10-80 % charging performance with nearly 18 minutes. I personally need a car in the ID4 size but at a lower price and with the known good Kia equipment. "Please Kia make charging of the new Niro a little faster, then Niro EVs will sell like hot cakes ***."

[@loriallen67]

Was seriously considering the Niro but the refresh is a no go I’m afraid. Visibility. That c-pillar is just bad visibility.

[@thomaskerkhoff579]

The current EV market in the US has essentially ignored the financial realities of average households. The use case in any new technology has traditionally meant manufacturing for high profit items, and then later on, make more affordable models. If we are to support a shift to EVs in the US, lessons must be learned from Europe, where a true mix of affordable and premium EVs is available now. So, what you want/need versus what is financially attainable (absent serious government incentives) remains sadly limited. Urge EV-dedicated journalists to assist in pushing policy-makers and manufacturers for useable, practical, affordable EVs.

[@Tom55data]

Being built on a proper EV platform, shame the efficiency of the EV6 is crap compared to the nero.

[@johndoyle4723]

Thanks, very fair review. I made the transition from the old eNiro to the sLine AWD EV6, there is no comparison, the EV6 is superb, a different class of car. OK, I am lucky I could afford it, but on a smaller budget I would take the Niro. I love the style, the size,20 inch wheels( not good for range, but look superb), the gadgets, head up display, sun roof, auto tailgate, sound system,all round camera, blind spot camera, ventilated seats etc. Downsides, head room in front a bit tight for tall drivers, range about the same as the Niro, but bigger battery and about 15% less efficient, A pillars a bit big but not you get use to it. It is not an SUV, or a Crossover, it is in a class of its own, a large comfortable long range EV.

[@lyner47]

Does the Kia Niro EV have a heat pump?

[@jonasvanlangenhof7990]

yes they do

[@amperformance7998]

Depends on the market. Some countries have it, some don't.

[@Richard-io9xe]

In the UK it's a £900 option available on 3 and 4 trim.

[@masterod5728]

There is NO heat pump but an electric auxiliary heater.

[@ryanlaffan7064]

I’m a bit torn. I’m not sure I can see past that C pillar on the Niro but I find the EV6 a bit too big

[@3eschmitt]

The contrasting c pillar color is an option on the Niro.

[@aaromnido]

In Spain, the price of the new e-Niro ends at the point where the EV6 starts. The decision just at this point that we used to say in Spanish "For a little more money..." Hahaha. Do you have a similar expression in English?

[@gregchristie2763]

I'm looking at ordering an EV but the only 50 kW charging is a deal-breaker for me, even the C4 gets 100Kw.. I think they've made a big mistake there.

[@SoulRollerFIN]

EV6 is outrageusly expensive where I live. Waiting for the Niro pricing. Most likely choosing that one, or another brand.

[@camilletraore]

Niro EV, in france it's a great deal with help form state that lower even more the price !

[@davidslee1085]

You're clearly in the UK, you show a UK car for external shots. WHY show a left hand drive car for the interior? Is it laziness because you can't be bothered to source the correct photos?

[@l-charge8438]

Great video! But what's your choice? :)

[@adhdaddventure]

Want the EV6 but i dont know, the Niro EV seems nice as well. But i just wish that the Niro EV had faster charging and same door-handles as the EV6

[@clewis5220]

If you are going to buy an EV why wouldn’t you buy one that’s built as an EV from the ground up! I love the short bonnet on EV6 for that reason.

[@ghost70]

Great video, Kia def not done enough. i like the new box shape but had the design and colouring. Battery and charging slower trhan out going model and justs seen another review that has said in their cointry the new nero is 2000 more thatn prev model. i cant justify 40 -46k for a kia even if warranty and build quality is better than a Tesla. plus no charging network.

[@ramblerandy2397]

Interesting question. Which would I prefer? The thing, what is the whole wealth of the population going to consider, if we are to get them into an EV asap? Personally, neither. Once I'm up in that territory I'm buying a Standard Tesla Model 3. I've driven one, it's amazing. I've seen an EV6 up close and overall I'm not that keen now after being dazzled before. And I've seriously have gone off that pram handle at the back. So that said, what vehicle can the most number of people buy? Obviously getting towards the lowest price new, and that's where the Xpeng P5 enters. I'm intrigued by it. So much so that I'm going to try to switch my Fully Charged Live Farnborough ticket to Amsterdam, so that I can see an Xpeng, in the metal, so to speak. On the personal front - did I say a Tesla Model 3? How about an Xpeng P7 ? Oh boy. 😎

[@donaldespeut2042]

Hope you enjoy your expensive, poorly finished Tesla that rides like a truck. If fit and finish is not important to you, buy a go-cart. They are lot cheaper.

[@ramblerandy2397]

@@donaldespeut2042 I will, thanks.

[@rajenwilliams]

I wish Niro EV has a battery pack of equivalent size/capacity to the ID4 or the Model 3 or Model Y. That and charging speed would be factors that keep me from buying it n the face of much stiffer and increasingly numerous competitors. Not a bad car, but could be better.

[@stephenshannon3706]

Whether or not charging speed is as important as is claimed, is questionable - depending on location, personal circumstances and frequency of long road trips. In the UK, currently at least, most drivers will choose to charge slowly at home, on off-peak tariffs and for some making use of solar energy. This is far cheaper than charging at public DC fast chargers, especially using those with very fast charge rates which command a premium price per kWh, even with vehicles that cannot accept high charge rates. For many people, most journeys are local, so if you have a fairly large battery say upwards of 50kWh it is easy to top up if you have a driveway at home. I accept that for those people doing a lot of motorway/highway driving and those without a driveway, then fast public charging is a must - but that certainly does not apply to everyone. If I go on a very long trip, I may do a “splash and dash” top-up at a public DC charger, say putting in 10 kWh - which even at a relatively slow 50kWh charger, would only take about 15 minutes.

[@woody1569]

I’m looking for a suv ev so it would be the Niro, it’s still a ev and will do the same job get you from a to b and back, all the new evs over £40,000 people just can’t Afford at all so why price them that high. All you need is a ev range 200 to 300 miles cos there is a lot of charging stations out there to charge your car plus home as well.

[@petershorney7504]

EV6 well out of my price range. E-Niro is OK but loses out to the Renault Megane E-Tech, which would be my choice.

[@Richard-io9xe]

Well it might have been, until Renault butchered the UK spec. Now, not a chance.

[@Dreadpirateflappy]

you gloss over a major point in the practicality section, the boot shape. Yes in litres the EV6 seems the winner, but with the Niro being taller and a boxy shapoe it's far easier to fit bigger items like pushchairs etc inside. Far easier car for taller people as well due to the sloping roofline. EV6 is a far nicer sportier car, Niro is a far better family car imo.

[@Banyan314]

That C Pillar is so annoying !

[@masterod5728]

ONLY available at an extra charge!

[@coolpix222]

EV6 for sure!