Two compact electric SUVs dominate the Canadian market: the 2025 Kia Niro EV and 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric. Both cars deliver 201 horsepower and use 64.8 kWh battery packs. They both have front-wheel drive too.
But these shared specs hide some important differences. Your choice depends on what matters most to you: cargo space, driving range, or how the features are packaged. Each vehicle takes its own approach to the compact EV formula.
Power and Range: Same Output, Different Results
Both electric SUVs produce 201 hp from their motors. The Niro EV delivers 188 lb-ft of torque through a single-speed transmission. Both vehicles use regenerative braking with steering wheel paddles, so you can capture energy while driving and extend your range.
Here's where they start to differ. The 2025 Niro EV offers up to 407 km of driving range. That's enough for most daily commutes plus weekend trips across the province. The Niro EV sips electricity at 1.9/2.3/2.1 Le/100km for city, highway, and combined driving.
The Niro EV puts its charging port up front for easy access. Both models work with Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging. You can charge the Niro EV from 10% to 80% in just 43 minutes using a 350kW fast charger.
Cargo Space: The Clear Winner
This is where the Niro EV really shines. You get 1,805 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. That's more room than most compact SUVs offer. Even with the rear seats up, you still have 646 litres for groceries, sports gear, or luggage.
The smart power liftgate opens automatically. This helps during Canadian winters when your hands are full or wearing thick gloves. The dual-level cargo floor gives you more organizing options too.
Both vehicles feature modern digital displays. The Niro EV has matching 10.25-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. This creates a clean, modern look that's easy to read while driving.
The Niro EV includes Vehicle-to-Load capability. This turns your SUV into a 120V power source. You can run camping equipment, power tools, or emergency devices right from your vehicle. The electronic shift-by-wire system removes the traditional gear selector, giving you more interior space.
Trim Levels and Features
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Feature
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Niro EV Wind
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Niro EV Wind+
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Niro EV Wave
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Seating
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Cloth
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Cloth/synthetic leather
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Cloth/synthetic leather
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Charging
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Wireless charging pad
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Wireless charging pad
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Wireless charging pad
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Liftgate
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Manual
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Manual
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Power
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Seats
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Heated front
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Heated front/rear, cooled front
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Heated front/rear, cooled front
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Parking
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Basic
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Basic
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Remote Smart Parking
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The Niro EV uses three trim levels: Wind, Wind+, and Wave. This makes it easy to understand what you're getting. The Wind+ adds heated rear seats and air-cooled front seats. The Wave trim includes the power liftgate, synthetic leather seating, and Remote Smart Parking Assist.
The Kona Electric starts with a Preferred model and adds three package options: Trend, Ultimate, and N Line Ultimate. The N Line Ultimate gets 19-inch wheels and sporty styling. This system gives you more choices but can make decisions harder.
Safety and Technology
Both vehicles come loaded with safety features. You get forward collision avoidance, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control as standard equipment. The Niro EV adds features like rear occupant alert and highway driving assist across all trims.
The infotainment systems in both cars support wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Niro EV includes Kia Connect services for remote vehicle monitoring and control. Both offer multiple USB ports and wireless charging pads for your devices.
Making Your Choice
The 2025 Kia Niro EV works best for families who need cargo space and longer driving range. Its 407 km range and 1,805-litre cargo area make it practical for Canadian driving conditions. The three-trim structure keeps decisions simple.
The Kona Electric appeals to drivers who want more customization options and sportier looks. Its package system lets you pick specific features, though this can complicate the buying process.
Both vehicles deliver solid electric performance with modern features. Your choice comes down to priorities: maximum cargo space and range with the Niro EV, or more styling options with the Kona Electric.
Ready to see how much cargo space 1,805 litres really is? Stop by Cardinal Kia and load up the Niro EV with your gear to experience the difference yourself.
To learn more about the 2025 Kia Niro EV, visit Kia.ca
