• Larger in exterior dimensions than Kona EV
• Features V2L with up to 3.6 kW of power output
• 64.8 kWh for up to 460 km range (WLTP)

Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor for the Kia brand in Malaysia, has launched the fully imported (CBU from Korea) 2023 Kia Niro EV with a sole variant, priced at RM 256,668 (OTR without insurance).

While one might assume that the Kia Niro EV directly competes with the Hyundai Kona EV, it is worth noting that the Niro EV is actually a larger vehicle.

With dimensions of 4,420mm in length, 1,825mm in width, and 1,570mm in height, and a wheelbase measuring 2,720mm, the 2023 Kia Niro EV surpasses the size of the Kona EV.

The Kona EV, on the other hand, has a length of 4,205mm, a width of 1,800mm, a height of 1,570mm, and a wheelbase of 2,600mm.

The Kia Niro EV is based on Kia's third-generation "K" platform, which incorporates high-tech aerodynamics (with a claimed aerodynamic coefficient of 0.29 Cd), including a wide Aero C-Pillar and boomerang-shaped rear taillights.

The front suspension of the Kia Niro EV utilises a Macpherson strut-type design, while the rear features a four-link setup. Both the front and rear geometry are said to be calibrated to enhance responsiveness, stability, and ride comfort.

The steering gear ratio has been optimized, and a new tilt-type strut bearing has been introduced to reduce friction, resulting in improved steering feel.

Exterior kit includes 17-inch wheels, full LED lighting with automatic LED projector headlamps, LED daytime running lights (DRLs), LED fog lamps, and LED taillights. There's also electric folding and heated side mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, sunroof, and a powered tailgate. 

Powered by a 64.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the Kia Niro EV outputs 204 PS and 255 Nm from its front-mounted electric motor. It offers a range of approximately 460 km on a single charge based on the WLTP cycle. Its onboard charger accepts up to 11 kW AC charging, while DC charging is rated at up to 80 kW.

Boot space is rated at 475 litres with the seats upright and an additional 1,392 litres with the rear seats folded down.

It also features a 20-litre frunk (front trunk) located close to the charging port, designed for storing the vehicle's charging cable and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) adapter. The V2L feature can supply up to 3.6 kW of power.

Moving inside, the eco-friendly interior boasts premium quality materials, textured surfaces, and ambient mood lighting customisable in 64 colours.

Taking centre stage is the dual-widescreen display with a 10.25-inch infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

Other features include wireless charging, heated and ventilated front seats with memory function, 8-speaker audio system, and a reverse camera.

In terms of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), the Kia Niro EV gets:

• High Beam Assist (HBA)
• Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist (RCCA)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
• Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Junction Turning
• Lane Following Assist (LFA)
• Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go

The 2023 Kia Niro EV comes in three colour options: Snow White Pearl, Mineral Blue, and Cityscape Green.

It is backed by a 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty (or 150,000km), 8-Years High Voltage Battery Pack warranty or 160,000km, whichever comes first. Pre-orders are now open at all Kia dealerships nationwide.

Also read: Taking sustainability to another level, Kia Niro designers talk design and materials