Kia unveils the ‘new’ Niro, but what’s going on with the EV?

Kia unveiled the new Niro design for the first time, giving the “eco-friendly” a fresh new look inside and out. With several new models now available, will the EV version get the axe?

Kia Niro gets a facelift as the EV faces a different fate

The Niro has undergone several minor updates since it was first introduced in 2016. Kia launched the second-generation Niro in 2022 with hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and 100% electric powertrain options.

Kia unveiled the new Niro design in South Korea on Tuesday, bringing the electric crossover more in line with its latest electric models, like the EV3, EV5, and EV9.

The new look is based on Kia’s “Opposites United” design theme with a smaller front end and Kia’s Starmap Signature Lighting daytime running lights, much like the EV3.

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Kia gave it new wheel arch cladding and lower door garnish to give it a more rugged profile, while the newly designed 18″ wheels add a futuristic twist. At the rear, the new Niro features a slimmer LED lamp graphic that Kia says creates a dynamic, 3D rhythm.

The interior closely resembles Kia’s latest EVs with a new 12.3″ cluster and infotainment system. Kia also updated the steering wheel and dash for added functionality.

Kia plans to reveal more info, including prices, powertrain options, and other specs for the new Niro crossover in March.

Will we see the EV version return? A report from The Korean Car Blog last year claimed that rumors were spreading locally claiming Kia may pull the Niro EV from its lineup, with the EV3 taking its place.

The 2025 Kia Niro EV starts at $39,600 in the US with an EPA-estimated driving range of up to 253 miles. While the EV3 isn’t on sale in the US, Kia America’s marketing boss, Russel Wager, told Car and Driver at the LA Auto Show that bringing the EV3 to the US is still part of the plan, despite the delay of the EV4.

Despite announcing the 2026 Niro, Kia has yet to introduce the 2026 model year PHEV or EV variants in the US. It looks like we’ll have to wait until March to learn more.

Would you buy the EV3 in the US over the Niro EV? Drop us a comment below and let us know your thoughts.

While we wait, Kia is offering some pretty sweet deals on its current EV lineup, including a $10,000 Customer Cash Bonus for the 2025 EV6, Niro EV, and 2026 EV9. Check out the links below to find available Kia models near you.