Best Electric Commuter Car for 2023: Kia Niro EV

Kia redesigned the entire Niro lineup for the 2023 model year, increasing the car’s size slightly as well as giving it funky styling and a dynamic interior, but it’s the all-electric version of this compact hatchback that’s driving away with the award. Thanks to its EPA-estimated maximum range of 253 miles, commuters shouldn’t need to plug in every night at home, but when they do, the Niro EV can be recharged from empty to full in about seven hours using a Level 2 home charger. That’s thanks to an onboard charger that was upgraded from 7.2 to 11 kilowatts.

Making 201 horsepower, the Niro EV’s 150-kW electric motor is zippy and responsive. The ride is comfortable when commuting on the highway, and if (or when) you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic, its interior is pleasant. And in case anyone is carpooling in 2023, the Niro EV’s hatchback body style allows for a respectable amount of cargo and passenger space with easy-to-park exterior dimensions.

Find a 2023 Kia Niro EV for sale near you:

See what to know before purchasing an EV, plus our buying guide:

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:15 Redesigned
0:32 Maximum range and charging
0:51 Electric motor specs
0:57 Interior
1:16 Awards

Editorial mission: