2025 Kia Niro EV vs. Hyundai Kona Electric: Which One Is the Best Buy?
For years, the Kia Niro EV and the Hyundai Kona Electric have gone head-to-head in the compact electric SUV market. Both vehicles offer exceptional range, impressive efficiency, and cutting-edge technology at a competitive price. But as the 2025 models hit the market, the question remains—which EV is the better buy?
Hyundai’s Kona Electric has long been a leader in this space, but the 2025 Kia Niro EV is gaining serious ground. With an improved driving experience, advanced safety features, and a refined interior, the Niro EV is proving to be a strong alternative to the Kona Electric.
If you’re deciding between these two affordable electric SUVs, this detailed comparison will cover performance, range, features, pricing, and past sales trends to help you make the best choice.
The Rivalry: A Battle for EV Dominance
Hyundai and Kia are corporate cousins, but that hasn’t stopped them from competing fiercely in the EV space.
- The Hyundai Kona Electric debuted in 2018, quickly becoming one of the most popular small electric SUVs on the market.
- The Kia Niro EV followed soon after, offering a larger interior and more practical crossover design to appeal to families and daily commuters.
Both vehicles have gone through multiple updates and improvements, but as we enter 2025, the Kia Niro EV is starting to gain more traction against the longtime Kona Electric leader.
Kia Niro EV is Closing the Sales Gap on the Hyundai Kona Electric
Historically, the Hyundai Kona Electric has led in total sales, but recent data suggests the Kia Niro EV is rapidly catching up.
- In June 2024, the Hyundai Kona Electric saw a 22% increase in sales, with 2,419 units sold.
- Meanwhile, the Kia Niro EV experienced a 28% sales jump, reaching 1,872 units.
While the Kona Electric still has the edge, the faster growth rate of the Niro EV indicates that more buyers are seeing the value Kia brings to the table.
2025 Kia Niro EV vs. 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric: How They Compare
1. Performance & Driving Range
| Model | Battery Size | Range (EPA Est.) | Horsepower | 0-60 mph | 0-100 km/h |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Kona Electric | 64.8 kWh | 261 miles (420 km) | 201 hp | ~6.4 sec | ~6.6 sec |
| Kia Niro EV | 64.8 kWh | 253 miles (407 km) | 201 hp | ~7.5 sec | ~7.7 sec |
- The Hyundai Kona Electric offers slightly more range (420 km vs. 407 km) and quicker acceleration, making it a strong choice for those who prioritize performance and efficiency.
- The Kia Niro EV trades a small amount of range for more interior space and a smoother ride, making it a better option for families and comfort-focused buyers.
2. Charging & Efficiency
Both vehicles are closely matched when it comes to charging times and efficiency.
- DC Fast Charging: Reaches 80% charge in approximately 45-54 minutes using a 100 kW charger.
- Level 2 (AC) Charging: A full charge takes about 9.5 hours using a home charger.
| Model | City Efficiency (L/100 km) | Highway Efficiency (L/100 km) |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Kona Electric | 1.8 L/100 km | 2.3 L/100 km |
| Kia Niro EV | 1.9 L/100 km | 2.4 L/100 km |
The Hyundai Kona Electric is slightly more efficient, but the difference is minimal in real-world driving.
3. Interior, Cargo Space & Comfort
The Kia Niro EV is the winner when it comes to space and comfort.
| Model | Front Legroom | Rear Legroom | Cargo Space (Seats Up) | Cargo Space (Seats Folded) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Kona Electric | 41.7 in (106 cm) | 36.4 in (92 cm) | 25.5 cu ft (722 L) | 63.7 cu ft (1804 L) |
| Kia Niro EV | 41.5 in (105 cm) | 36.9 in (94 cm) | 22.8 cu ft (646 L) | 63.7 cu ft (1804 L) |
- The Kia Niro EV has more rear legroom, making it more comfortable for passengers.
- Cargo space is nearly identical, but the Kona Electric has more space when the seats are up.
4. Pricing: Which One Offers Better Value?
| Model | Starting Price (USD) | Starting Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Kona Electric | $34,425 USD | $46,499 CAD |
| Kia Niro EV | $40,995 USD | $48,626 CAD |
- The Hyundai Kona Electric is more affordable upfront, making it a better choice for budget-conscious buyers.
- The Kia Niro EV costs slightly more but justifies its price with more passenger space, better safety features, and an upgraded cabin.
Final Verdict: Which EV is the Better Buy?
If you’re looking for the longest range, quicker acceleration, and a lower starting price, the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric is the better choice.
If you value more rear passenger space, premium safety features, and a well-balanced driving experience, the 2025 Kia Niro EV is a fantastic alternative.
Looking for a 2025 Kia Niro EV? Browse our inventory at Orleans Kia and find the perfect model today.
Visit Orleans Kia to test drive the 2025 Kia Niro EV today.