Not quite a hatchback but not quite an SUV, the 2021 Kia Niro is a smart little city hybrid with great space for passengers and cargo and an average fuel economy of 50 mpg. The base model hybrid starts at $24,690. There is also a plug-in hybrid (starting at $29,590) earning 105 mpg, and a full EV, although details and pricing on the EV will not be released until later this year.
Looking like a hatchback but taller like a compact crossover, the Niro has plenty of rear headroom for 6-footers and plenty of cargo space, ranging from 22.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats up to 54.4 cubic feet with the rears folded flat. Driving manners are actually kind of fun, with an impressive 195 lb-ft of torque helping the Niro do 0-60 mph in 8.6 seconds. It’s not exactly quick, but people usually don’t buy hybrids for sporty driving. Ride quality is comfortable, and there’s actually a sense of agility through the curves.
Inside, the Niro has comfortable seats and an elegant yet basic design, with the base model offering dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, a USB port, Bluetooth, and a 6-speaker audio system. One thing to be aware of, however, is that the base LX trim does not include such safety features as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. As with all Kia models, the 2021 Niro comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Five Trim Levels
With a starting price of $24,690 and going up to $34,125 for the top EX Premium, the 2021 Kia Niro is available in five trim levels. All prices add a $1,175 destination charge. All are powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor for 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission sends power to the front wheels only.
As the base LX lacks some basic active safety and driver-assistance features, we recommend the LXS, which is a mere $1,400 more than the LX and adds blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, and pedestrian detection, as well as keyless entry.
Here’s the Complete Rundown on 2021 Kia Niro Trims and Prices:
2021 Kia Niro LX: $24,690
- Cloth upholstery
- Dual-zone climate control
- 8-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration
2021 Kia Niro LXS: $26,090
- Keyless entry/start
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Forward collision avoidance system
2021 Kia Niro Touring: $28,390
- Power sunroof
- Cloth/leather upholstery
- Adaptive cruise control
- 18-inch alloy wheels
2021 Kia Niro Touring Special Edition: $30,950
- Leather seats
- 10.25-inch screen and Harman Kardon audio system
- Navigation-based smart cruise control
- Highway Driving Assist
2021 Kia Niro EX Premium: $32,950
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel
- Rear parking sensors
- 10-way power-adjustable driver seat
- Wireless phone charger
Ready to buy a 2021 Kia Niro? Shop for one on sale now near you.
