Cars

The 2019 Kia Niro EV ditches its grille to improve aerodynamics

With a 64-kWh battery, the Niro EV can go 239 miles on a charge.

Jake Holmes

While studying traditional news journalism in college, Jake realized he was smitten by all things automotive and wound up with an internship at Car and Driver. That led to a career writing news, review and feature stories about all things automotive at Automobile Magazine, most recently at Motor1. When he's not driving, fixing or talking about cars, he's most often found on a bicycle.

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Jake Holmes

Nov. 29, 2018 1:58 p.m. PT

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Kia has finally introduced the US version of the Niro EV at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

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The Niro EV has a 64kWh battery pack and is rated for 239 miles of driving per charge.

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The Niro EV's electric drive motor puts out 201 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque.

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Like other Niro variants, the EV is a practical hatchback with lots of space for cargo.

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The Niro EV also gets unique fascias, wheels and rockers to help reduce aerodynamic drag.

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As is required by law, the Niro EV also produces artificial sounds at low speeds to help alert pedestrians and other drivers to its presence.

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The Niro EV will be able to use CCS DC fast charging to get an 80 percent charge in just one hour and 15 minutes.

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When the 2019 Kia Niro EV goes on sale in early 2019, it'll be offered in EX and EX Premium trim levels.

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Standard equipment on the EX will include three USB ports and a 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, while the EX Premium will tout things like an 8-inch touchscreen, LED headlights, a heated steering wheel and ambient interior lighting.