New Kia e-Niro vs Hyundai Kona Electric

Two months ago, we named Hyundai’s Kona Electric as the best car of its kind. But has fellow Korean brand Kia made better use of the very same battery and motor with its e-Niro?...

New Kia e-Niro vs Hyundai Kona Electric

Our verdict

The Kona Electric may have represented a breakthrough, but its time at the top has come to an end after just two months. For some, its more compact dimensions will be a bonus, but it’s impossible to ignore the extra roominess of the e-Niro.

Then there’s the driving experience. The two cars can go almost the exact same distance, but the e-Niro is better mannered. Its slightly softer edge makes it comfier, yet it also handles more tidily and accelerates in a less flustered manner.

Pricing sets the result in stone, because for all of its superiorities, the Niro will cost you just £150 more to buy than the Kona.

1st - Kia e-Niro

Rated 5/5

Kia e-Niro behind

For Better ride and handling; hot hatch-rivalling acceleration; spacious interior

Against Can struggle to put its power down; limited rear seat flexibility

Read our full Kia e-Niro review

Find a great Kia e-Niro deal


2nd - Hyundai Kona Electric

Rated 4/5

Hyundai Kona Electric behind

For Slightly longer range; cheaper to buy; better-placed infotainment screen

Against Cramped rear seats; smaller boot; imprecise handling; interior feels cheaper

Read our full Hyundai Kona Electric review

Find a great Hyundai Kona Electric deal


Specifications: Kia e-Niro First Edition

Engine Electric motor

List price £36,495*

Target price £36,495*

Battery size 64kWh

Peak power 201bhp

Peak torque 291lb ft

Gearbox Single-speed automatic

0-60mph 6.9sec

Top speed 104mph

Real range 253 miles

Cost of full charge £8.74

Electricity cost per mile 3.4p

Electricity cost per 12k miles £420

CO2 emissions 0g/km


Specifications: Hyundai Kona Electric 64kWh Premium

Engine Electric motor 

List price £36,345*

Target price £36,345*

Battery size 64kWh

Peak power 201bhp

Peak torque 291lb ft

Gearbox Single-speed automatic

0-60mph 7.0sec

Top speed 104mph

Real range 259 miles

Cost of full charge £8.65

Electricity cost per mile 3.3p

Electricity cost per 12k miles £400

CO2 emissions 0g/km

*Before £3500 government grant


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