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Volvo EX30 VS Kia Niro EV: Which is Better?
Volvo’s latest addition to its electric vehicle lineup is the stylish EX30 SUV, available in Single- and Dual-Motor versions. Boasting a 268-hp RWD setup or a 422-hp AWD arrangement, the EX30 is Volvo’s fastest-accelerating vehicle yet. Both options feature a 64.0-kWh battery pack, providing a range of up to 275 miles per charge. With chic LED lighting and renowned comfortable bucket seats, the EX30 emphasizes style, incorporating recycled materials for upholstery. Meanwhile, the redesigned Kia Niro EV commands attention on the road with intriguing lighting and two-tone panels. The subcompact SUV boasts a snazzier interior with digitized instruments and recycled materials, housing a 201-hp electric motor for mild acceleration. Its 64.8-kWh battery delivers a 253-mile range, and with fast charging, it claims a 10 to 80 percent charge in approximately 45 minutes.
| Volvo EX30 | Kia Niro EV | |
| Dimensions | 166.7 in x 72.3 in x 61.2 in | 174.0 in x 71.8 in x 61.8 in |
| Motor | permanent-magnet AC | permanent-magnet AC |
| Horsepower | 422 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.3–5.0 sec | 6.7 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | NA | 17.6 sec |
| Top-Speed | 112 mph | 106 mph |
Volvo EX30
Motor & Performance
In the Single Motor Extended Range model, you get a robust 268-hp electric motor at the rear, delivering 253 lb-ft of torque. For thrill-seekers, the Dual Motor Performance model is the go-to, packing a total of 422 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque with a motor on each axle. All EX30 versions feature a 64.0-kWh battery, providing up to 275 miles per charge for RWD models and around 265 miles for AWD models. Charging is swift with a DC fast-charging connection at a peak rate of 153 kW, claiming to go from 10 to 80 percent in under half an hour. Transitioning between these powerful options, the EX30 ensures a dynamic driving experience with cutting-edge electric technology.
Price & Mileage
With an enticing starting price, the EX30 makes a compelling entry at $36,245. Opting for the mid-range Plus trim with the single-motor powertrain is our top recommendation. While the EPA hasn’t provided fuel-economy estimates for the EX30, we anticipate it to rival other small electric SUVs like the Hyundai Kona Electric and the Kia Niro EV. This makes the EX30 a promising choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking competitive features in the electric SUV market.
Acceleration & Features
Volvo claims the single-motor setup accelerates to 60 mph in around 5.1 seconds, while the Dual Motor Performance model achieves it in just 3.4 seconds. Following Tesla’s lead, the EX30 adopts a single vertically oriented 12.3-inch display for both infotainment and gauges. This screen, using Volvo’s updated Google-based interface, integrates Google Maps for navigation and supports wireless Apple CarPlay. Notably, the stereo system is distinct; Volvo opted for a dashboard soundbar instead of dispersing individual speakers throughout the vehicle.
Kia Niro EV
Motor & Performance
The Niro EV has only one powertrain. A single electric motor powering the front wheels. According to Kia, this configuration produces 201 hp, surpassing the 139-hp hybrid and 180-hp plug-in-hybrid models. With an estimated range of 253 miles per charge, it outperforms its predecessor by 14 miles. The Niro EV is equipped with a 64.8-kWh battery pack, and when connected to a DC fast charger, it claims a 10 to 80 percent charge in about 45 minutes. This means you can get back on the road swiftly.
Price & Mileage
For the best choice, go with the basic Wind trim because moving up to the Wave model won’t give you more range or better performance. The Kia Niro EV begins at $40,875, and according to the EPA, it gets 126 MPGe in the city and 101 MPGe on the highway.
Acceleration & Features
While the Niro EV packs more power, its acceleration fell below expectations, taking 6.7 seconds to hit 60 mph. The focal point of its infotainment system is a 10.3-inch touchscreen. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but extras like wireless charging and a Harman/Kardon stereo come at an additional cost. Kia introduces Digital Key 2.0, allowing users to remotely manage vehicle functions via their smartphones. Moreover, voice-command services such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant offer control over certain functions.