For 2022, the Kia Niro returns with a few minor changes, a new badge and a few more standard features. These are standard now, 10.3-inch touch screen, navigation system, Harman/Kardon audio system, and SiriusXM satellite radio.

The 2022 Niro EV is available in two trims EX and EX Premium. It is equipped with a 64-kWh battery powering the front motor, delivering an estimated 239 miles. The electric motor produces 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds. The battery can be fully recharged in 9.5 hours using a level 2 240V charger or reach an 80% charge in 1 hour using DC Fast 100kW.

The base trim EX includes a generous list of standard features with leatherette and cloth upholstery, heated front seats, power driver seat, 17-inch aluminum wheels, automatic climate control, voice activated navigation, Kia Connect with remote climate control/vehicle locator/charging, wireless phone charger, and smart key with push button start. The Cold Weather package adds battery heater, heat pump, and heated steering wheel.

The EX-Premium gets ventilated front seats, leatherette seats, cargo area cover, deluxe door scuff plates, LED brake lights, ambient lighting, sunroof, and Park Distance Warning-Reverse (PDW-R).

Standard safety items on the Niro includes Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Lane Following Assist(LFA), Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW), Pedestrian Detection, Driver Attention Warning (DAW) with Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA), and Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control-Curve (NSCC-C) w/ Stop & Go & Highway Driving Assist (HDA).

The Kia Niro includes other optional equipment such as carpeted floor mats, cargo cover, cross bars, cargo net, wheel locks, and high load cargo mat.

The Niro offers good value for an entry level electric vehicle, starting around $41,000, with an array of standard features and a reasonable range. It offers a more refined ride when against some of the competitors like Bolt EV and Kona Electric. Other competitors in this segment are the Mustang Mach-E, ID.4, and Nissan Leaf. Another great advantage to getting an electric vehicle now is Government rebates that could add up to $7500. Like all Kia's, the Niro comes standard with all the basics one would expect from a compact car and at the other end of the spectrum, the Niro is positively loaded with the kind of items that were only sold in luxury cars a few years ago.

Compact but roomy; lots of standard equipment; sleek styling; powerful motors from the get-go, good range