You’re staring at two boxy, peppy electric crossovers from Kia, wondering which one whispers “yes, you.” The quirky Soul EV with its cube-on-wheels charm, or the sleek Niro EV that blends into traffic like a well-dressed secret agent? I get it. This choice feels bigger than picking a car. It’s picking a feeling for your daily commute, weekend errands, and those spontaneous road trips.
Here’s my promise: I’ll walk you through every detail that actually matters. No jargon, no fluff. By the end, you’ll know exactly which electric Kia fits your life like your favorite pair of jeans.
What you’re really choosing between: boxy urban flair vs. refined crossover grace. The surprise twist: one of these cars is nearly impossible to buy new today. Why this comparison still matters in 2025 (hint: the used market is juicy).
Keynote: Kia Niro vs Soul EV
Kia Niro EV delivers 253-mile range with 11 kW charging and refined highway manners for $39,600. Soul EV offers 243 miles, 291 lb-ft torque, and bold styling for $15,000 to $25,000 used, both backed by 10-year battery warranty.
The Plot Twist You Need to Know First
Soul EV is playing hard-to-get, and here’s why that changes everything.
Where Can You Actually Buy These Today?
Niro EV sits fresh on dealer lots right now. The 2025 Wind and Wave trims are ready to roll. Soul EV disappeared from U.S. showrooms after 2023. You’ll hunt the used market or look to Canada and Europe for inventory.
Discontinuation means something real for you. Parts availability narrows over time. Warranty transfers require careful verification. Future software updates may stop flowing. One service expert told me that discontinued models often wait longer for repair parts, especially specialized EV components.
Why This Guide Still Matters
Used Soul EVs offer shocking value. You’ll find them priced between $15,000 and $25,000 compared to the Niro EV’s $39,600 sticker. Both share Kia’s repair network and that sweet 10-year battery warranty that transfers to second owners.
Smart buyers are snapping up used Soul EVs before everyone catches on. The discontinued status actually creates opportunity if you know what to inspect.
Money Talk: What Your Wallet Really Wants to Know
| Cost Category | 2025 Niro EV | Used Soul EV (2020-2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $39,600 – $46,045 | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Monthly Charging (12k miles/year) | ~$35 – $45 | ~$35 – $45 |
| Insurance (Annual Estimate) | $1,400 – $1,800 | $1,000 – $1,400 |
| 5-Year Depreciation | ~$12,000 – $15,000 | Minimal (already depreciated) |
The Sticker Shock (Or Relief)
Niro EV starts around $39,600 for 2025. Think premium crossover territory with all the latest tech. Soul EV lives in the used market now, ranging $15,000 to $25,000 depending on year and miles.
That $20,000 gap is real. Calculate what that money buys you elsewhere: a home solar system, a year of college tuition, or a comfortable emergency fund.
The True Cost Dance: Five Years Down the Road
Charging costs land nearly identical for both. They sip energy at roughly 3.8 to 3.9 miles per kilowatt-hour. Insurance favors Soul EV due to lower replacement value, saving you $300 to $400 annually.
Federal tax credits can slice the Niro EV’s price dramatically. New EV buyers may qualify for up to $7,500 federal credit, plus state rebates that vary wildly. Used EV buyers purchasing a qualified Soul EV can claim up to $4,000 under the used clean vehicle credit if your income falls within limits.
Eligibility checklist: confirm your adjusted gross income, verify the vehicle’s sale price stays under caps, ensure the dealer provides proper documentation, and check if your state offers additional incentives.
Range & Charging: Will You Actually Make It?
The “Will I Make It?” Question
Niro EV boasts 253 EPA miles officially. Expect 240 to 250 miles in mixed real-world driving when you factor in climate control and highway speeds. Soul EV claims 243 EPA miles. Real owners report 235 to 250 miles depending on season and driving style.
Winter cold truth hits hard: both lose 20 to 30 percent range when temperatures drop below freezing. That 250-mile summer range shrinks to 175 to 200 miles in January snowstorms. For daily errands and 99 percent of your drives? Either car laughs at range anxiety.
Highway reality check: at 70 to 75 mph, expect to lose 15 to 20 percent from EPA ratings. Niro EV delivers around 210 miles. Soul EV manages about 200 miles. Plan charging stops accordingly on road trips.
Charging Speed: When Time Actually Matters
| Charging Type | Niro EV | Soul EV |
|---|---|---|
| DC Fast (10-80%) | ~43 minutes | ~54 minutes |
| Peak DC Rate | 85 kW | ~100 kW |
| AC Onboard Charger | 11 kW | 7.2 kW |
| Home Level 2 (240V) | ~6 hours (0-100%) | ~9 hours (0-100%) |
| Standard Outlet (120V) | ~60 hours | ~60 hours |
Niro EV reaches 10 to 80 percent in about 43 minutes at DC fast chargers. Newer charging tech shines here with better thermal management. Soul EV takes roughly 54 minutes for the same charge. Earlier models used CHAdeMO connectors, so compatibility matters when hunting used inventory.
Home Level 2 overnight? Both wake up at 100 percent while you sleep peacefully. The Niro’s faster 11 kW onboard charger cuts home charging time significantly compared to the Soul’s 7.2 kW system.
Space & Comfort: Where Your Life Actually Happens
Cargo Reality Check: Strollers, Groceries, and Weekend Getaways
| Measurement | Niro EV | Soul EV |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo (Seats Up) | 22.8 cu. ft. | 23.4 cu. ft. |
| Cargo (Seats Down) | 63.7 cu. ft. | 61.3 cu. ft. |
| Rear Legroom | 36.9 inches | 36.5 – 38.8 inches |
| Rear Headroom | 38.1 inches | 38.9 – 39.5 inches |
Soul EV offers 24.2 cubic feet behind seats with that boxy shape making furniture loading feel like a breeze. The square cargo opening beats sloped hatchbacks every time. Niro EV provides 22.8 cubic feet initially but stretches to 63.7 max. That longer body loves road-trip luggage and camping gear.
Real talk: Soul’s vertical cargo opening wins for awkward items like floor lamps, potted plants, or stacked moving boxes. Niro’s extra maximum capacity shines when you fold seats for Costco runs.
How Your Passengers Feel Back There
Soul EV’s tall roof creates amazing headroom for tall friends. That airy, light cabin vibe makes passengers feel less cramped on longer drives. I’ve squeezed three adults across the back seat, and nobody complained about head space.
Niro EV’s more traditional roofline stays comfortable but not jaw-droppingly spacious. The sloped rear window eats into perceived openness. Child seats install easily in both. Tall teenagers actually prefer the Soul’s vertical room. Three adults across? Soul wins on vertical comfort, Niro edges ahead on legroom depending on trim.
The Ride Quality Nobody Mentions
Niro EV delivers smoother, more planted highway cruising. It feels grown-up and composed at 75 mph. Soul EV fidgets slightly on bumpy roads due to its taller profile and shorter wheelbase. Looser steering makes parking a dream but highways feel less refined.
Both handle potholes without rattling your teeth. The Soul’s independent multilink rear suspension (upgraded for the EV) actually outperforms expectations for urban abuse.
Performance & Personality: Which One Sparks Joy?
The Stoplight Grin Factor
| Performance Spec | Niro EV | Soul EV |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 188 lb-ft | 291 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 6.7 – 7.1 seconds | 7.0 – 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Modes | Normal, Sport, Eco, Eco+ | Normal, Sport, Eco, Eco+ |
Both pack 201-horsepower motors delivering instant electric torque. You’ll surprise your gas-guzzling friends at every stoplight. Soul EV feels quicker off the line despite similar 0-60 times. That massive 291 lb-ft torque creates wheelspin drama that’s exhilarating and slightly unruly.
Niro EV’s deliberately reduced 188 lb-ft torque tames the front wheels. Acceleration feels more controlled and linear. Kia chose refinement over rawness, targeting families who want smooth power delivery without drama.
Handling Character: City Dancer vs. Highway Cruiser
Soul’s nimble steering makes parallel parking and city errands feel effortless. The tighter turning radius wins in crowded urban environments. More body roll appears in corners due to the taller, heavier build.
Niro’s steadier grip and less body lean make long highway stretches more relaxing. The steering feels accurate and progressive but provides minimal feedback when pushed hard. Ask yourself: Do you chase twisty roads or cruise highways most?
Tech & Features: What You Touch Every Day
Screens, Sounds, and Safety Shields
Both offer 10.25-inch touchscreens on upper trims. Crisp, responsive, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ready to go. Niro EV adds wireless charging pads standard on most trims, plus a more refined interface that talks to charging networks for route planning.
Soul EV included head-up display on some trims, projecting speed and navigation onto a small combiner screen. The unique Sound Mood Lighting system pulses ambient light with your music, a fun feature the serious Niro skips entirely.
Niro EV’s Vehicle-to-Load capability stands out dramatically. You can power appliances, charge tools at a job site, or provide emergency backup during blackouts using up to 3.6 kW from the charge port. Digital Key 2.0 lets you unlock and start with your smartphone.
The Safety Net That Matters
Top crash scores protect you in both vehicles. The Niro platform earned five stars from NHTSA, while the Soul (gasoline version) scored four stars. Niro EV’s extra cameras and sensors watch wider blind spots.
Adaptive cruise control works smoothly in both. Lane-keeping doesn’t fight you. Blind-spot monitoring catches those sneaky motorcycles. The Niro makes more safety tech standard across trims, while the Soul often required top-tier packages.
Heat pump systems help both handle winters, though efficiency dips remain real. Budget that 20 to 30 percent range loss when planning cold-weather trips.
Design & Vibe: What Does Your Car Say About You?
The Soul EV Look: Bold, Boxy, Unapologetically Fun
That cube-on-wheels silhouette turns heads at school pickup and grocery runs. Slim LED headlamps and the shark-fin C-pillar modernize the classic look. People either love it or scratch their heads.
It says: “I’m practical and I have personality.” Perfect for city dwellers who want maximum space in a compact footprint. You’re not trying to blend in.
The Niro EV Look: Sleek, Subtle, Grown-Up Crossover
The Niro blends into traffic like a well-mannered neighbor. Sculpted lines, a low-slung profile, and that signature Aeroblade on the rear C-pillar add visual flair without screaming.
It says: “I’m smart about money and the planet, but I don’t need to announce it.” Ideal for folks who want electric benefits without standing out. The design ages gracefully.
The Stuff Owners Whisper About (The Real Pain Points)
Annoying Little Things You Should Know
Niro EV quirks surface on longer ownership. Windshield glare bothers some drivers in direct sun. The ride bounces more on rough pavement than expected. Base Wind trims lack LED headlights, which feels cheap at this price point.
Soul EV quirks include less stability in strong crosswinds. That boxy shape catches gusts on highway bridges. Road noise creeps in at speeds above 65 mph, louder than the Niro’s better-sealed cabin.
Both share infotainment lag occasionally. The system freezes for a few seconds then recovers. Winter range drop stresses new EV owners who didn’t budget for it. One frustrated owner told me: “I love my Soul, but I wish someone had warned me about the 40 percent range hit in Michigan winters.”
What Happens When You Need Service?
Niro EV enjoys full dealer support nationwide. Parts flow smoothly because it’s in Kia’s current lineup. You’re covered under the active warranty and software updates arrive regularly.
Soul EV’s discontinued status complicates things eventually. Parts availability narrows as inventory depletes. Ask sellers about warranty transfers carefully. Verify your local Kia dealer still services them enthusiastically, not reluctantly.
Your Perfect Match: Choosing With Your Head and Heart
| Best For… | Niro EV | Soul EV |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Priority | Higher upfront, latest tech | Lower cost, used market value |
| Driving Style | Highway cruising, refinement | City agility, fun factor |
| Design Preference | Sleek, blends in | Bold, stands out |
| Passenger Priority | Cargo volume, adult comfort | Headroom, urban space |
| Tech Must-Haves | V2L, newest safety features | Proven reliability, warranty |
Pick the Soul EV If…
You crave quirky design that makes you smile in parking lots every single time. Budget matters deeply and used EV deals excite you more than bleeding-edge features. City driving dominates your life, and nimble handling beats highway refinement.
Maximum interior space in a small footprint is non-negotiable. You’re comfortable buying used and doing homework on battery health inspections. The remaining 6 to 7 years of warranty coverage provides confidence.
Pick the Niro EV If…
You’re buying new and want latest charging tech plus full warranty coverage from day one. Highway road trips happen regularly, and you need that refined, stable ride quality. You prefer blending in with sleek crossover styling that doesn’t demand attention.
Dealer access, long-term support, and resale value matter most to your decision. Vehicle-to-Load capability sounds genuinely useful for your lifestyle. You want the newest safety features standard, not as expensive options.
Alternatives Worth Your Glance
| Alternative | Why Consider It | Potential Drawback |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Kona Electric | Similar size, 258-mile range, same platform cousin | Slightly less cargo space |
| Chevrolet Bolt EUV | Great used value, 247 miles, larger cabin | Discontinued, slower charging |
| Nissan Leaf Plus | 226 miles, reliable, affordable used | CHAdeMO limits fast-charging network |
| Kia EV3 (2026) | Better tech, expected lower pricing, same brand | Not available until late 2025 |
If Soul EV Feels Right But Is Unavailable
Hyundai Kona Electric shares the platform and offers similar practicality with slightly better range at 258 miles. The Kona delivers comparable fun-to-drive character in a slightly more conventional wrapper.
Chevrolet Bolt EUV was discontinued but offers great used value. Slightly larger cabin and 247-mile range make it compelling. Watch for slower DC fast-charging speeds (55 kW max) compared to both Kias.
Nissan Leaf Plus provides older tech but proven reliability. The 226-mile range works for most daily needs. Major limitation: CHAdeMO connector restricts fast-charging network access as CCS becomes standard.
If Niro EV Seems Steep
Wait for the 2026 Kia EV3 launching late this year. Better technology, faster charging (30 minutes vs. 43), and expected lower pricing around $35,000 make it worth considering.
Explore Niro Plug-in Hybrid instead. Save $10,000 upfront, gain gas backup for range anxiety, and still enjoy electric driving for daily commutes. The PHEV delivers 33 miles of pure electric range.
Hunt certified pre-owned 2023 to 2024 Niro EVs for warranty peace. You’ll save $5,000 to $8,000 while keeping most of the new-car benefits and full factory coverage.
Your Next Steps: Making This Decision Real
Questions That Cut Through the Noise
Is this your only car, or do you have a gas backup for long trips? Most buyers overestimate how often they actually drive over 200 miles in one day. Be brutally honest with yourself.
Can you install Level 2 home charging, or are you stuck with standard 120V outlets? That decision dramatically changes ownership satisfaction. A 240V circuit costs $500 to $2,000 to install but transforms your experience.
Which design makes you genuinely happy when you see it in your driveway? This emotional reaction matters more than you think for long-term satisfaction.
Action Items Before You Sign Anything
Test-drive a used Soul EV to verify comfort meets your spine’s expectations. Some taller drivers find the seats too firm after 90 minutes. Calculate your actual daily mileage by reviewing six months of current driving. Most people overestimate their needs by 30 to 40 percent.
Get insurance quotes for both models before falling in love. Rates vary wildly by zip code and driving record. Check local Kia dealers for certified pre-owned Soul EV inventory lurking in back lots. They exist but aren’t always advertised online.
Factor home charging installation costs into your total budget. A simple 240V circuit runs $500 to $800. A hardwired Level 2 charger with panel upgrade reaches $1,500 to $2,000.
Conclusion
You’ve absorbed the numbers, weighed the quirks, and pictured yourself behind both wheels. The truth? Either Kia delivers excellent electric transportation that’ll save you money on gas and maintenance for years.
Choose the Soul if personality and budget drive your decision. Choose the Niro if refinement and modern tech matter most. Both will get you there with zero emissions and that addictive electric grin.
Kia Soul EV vs Kia Niro (FAQs)
Can I buy a brand-new Soul EV in the U.S. today?
Nope. Kia discontinued it after 2023 in the U.S. market. Your options are the used market (which offers incredible value) or looking at Canadian and European imports, which complicates warranty coverage and service. The used route makes more sense for most buyers.
Does the Niro EV charge faster than the Soul EV?
Yes, about 11 minutes faster for the critical 10 to 80 percent charge (43 minutes vs. 54 minutes) thanks to newer battery thermal management and a slightly improved charging curve. Not life-changing for daily use, but noticeable on road trips when you’re grabbing lunch at the charger.
What’s the real highway range at 70 to 75 mph?
Expect to lose 15 to 20 percent from EPA ratings at sustained highway speeds. Niro EV delivers around 210 miles. Soul EV manages about 200 miles. Both drop further in cold weather. Plan charging stops every 150 to 175 miles for comfortable road-tripping with a buffer.
Will I regret buying a discontinued Soul EV?
Not if you buy smart. Inspect battery health using Kia’s diagnostic tools. Verify the warranty transfers properly to you as the second owner. Confirm your local Kia dealer still services them enthusiastically.
The remaining 6 to 7 years of EV system warranty coverage on a 2020 to 2021 model provides strong protection.
What is the price difference between Kia Niro EV and Soul EV in 2025?
New Niro EV starts at $39,600 to $46,045 depending on trim. Used Soul EVs range from $15,000 to $25,000 based on year, mileage, and condition. That’s a $15,000 to $30,000 gap.
The Soul’s lower entry point makes EV ownership accessible to more buyers, while the Niro’s higher price reflects newer technology and full warranty coverage.
Does the Kia Niro EV have more range than the Soul EV?
Yes, but barely. Niro EV claims 253 EPA miles vs. Soul EV’s 243 EPA miles, a difference of just 10 miles or about 4 percent. In real-world driving, both deliver 235 to 250 miles depending on conditions, making them functionally equivalent for daily use. Neither has a meaningful advantage for typical commuting and errand running.
How much faster does the Kia EV3 charge compared to Niro and Soul?
The upcoming Kia EV3 (launching late 2025) charges significantly faster, reaching 10 to 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes compared to 43 minutes for the Niro EV and 54 minutes for the Soul EV.
The EV3 uses an 800-volt architecture (vs. 400-volt in Niro and Soul) enabling peak charging speeds around 150 kW. This makes it 30 to 45 percent faster for DC fast-charging sessions.
Can I fit car seats in the back of a Kia Soul EV easily?
Yes, the Soul EV actually excels here. The tall roofline and wide-opening rear doors make installing and removing car seats easier than most crossovers. You can fit two car seats across the back with reasonable access to buckles. The upright seating position and generous headroom (39.5 inches) accommodate rear-facing seats without crushing front passenger legroom.
Which Kia EV is better for tall drivers Niro or Soul?
Soul EV wins for tall passengers with its 39.9 inches of front headroom and airy cabin feel. The upright seating position suits drivers over six feet tall beautifully. Niro EV offers 40.5 inches of front headroom but feels more cramped due to the sloped roofline.
For the driver’s seat specifically, both accommodate tall drivers well. The real difference shows up in the rear seat, where the Soul’s vertical space dramatically outperforms the Niro for tall passengers.