Kia discontinues Niro EV production, focuses on hybrid and newer EVs
06:48 12-03-2026
Kia has stopped making the Niro EV, continuing sales from inventory. The updated Niro is now hybrid-only, as newer EVs like EV3 and EV4 take priority in Kia’s lineup.
Kia has officially discontinued production of the electric version of its Niro EV crossover. Company representatives confirmed this move, noting that dealers will continue selling remaining vehicles from inventory.
The updated Kia Niro was introduced in early 2026, but it’s now confirmed that the model will only be produced with a hybrid powertrain. The company had previously dropped the plug-in hybrid version as well. In the South Korean market, the new Niro is offered with a hybrid system based on a 1.6-liter gasoline engine. The combined system output is 141 horsepower, with the electric motor contributing about 43 horsepower.
The first-generation Niro EV debuted in 2018, when there were few affordable electric vehicles available. The second generation launched in 2021, featuring a new design and more powerful fast-charging capabilities. Over time, the model became less competitive. With a price around $40,000 and a range of approximately 407 km, the Niro EV couldn’t match more affordable or longer-range models like the Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Bolt EV, and Nissan Leaf. Another factor was the arrival of Kia’s newer EV3 and EV4 electric vehicles, built on a more modern platform.
With the Niro EV out of production, Kia’s electric lineup in the U.S. will consist of the EV6 and EV9 models. The development of these models highlights how urban electric vehicles are becoming a key focus for automakers.
