South Trail Kia
Posted on July 6, 2021
Automobile manufacturers are continuously introducing electric vehicles (EVs) to their model lineups. Environmentally friendly, sustainable, and simply fun to drive, EVs are the vehicle of the future.
Two EVs that have spent a few years on the market are the 2021 Kia Niro EV and the 2021 Tesla Model 3. While the Niro is an SUV and the Model 3 is a sedan, these EVs are at a similar price point and offer similar driving ranges.
The 2021 Kia Niro EV is a stylishly designed crossover SUV with sweeping lines and new headlights and taillights on the exterior. Inside, the Niro EV is all about refinement and is equipped to maximize efficiency and provide a calm and collected driving experience.
Tesla provided both exterior and interior styling changing for the 2021 model year, such as satin black trim and new wheel designs outside with matching black satin trim and new smartphone charging pads inside. The Tesla Model 3 has an interior unlike any other vehicle on the market with an incredibly simplistic dashboard with a single touchscreen. While the front row shocks and awes passengers in a good way, the rear does exactly the opposite with cramped and uncomfortable seats.
Kia built the 2021 Niro EV with a 64 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery that allows the SUV to realize a 385 range on a full charge. The Niro EV is powered by a single electric motor that produces 201 horsepower, giving it a decent 0 to 97 km/h acceleration time of 6.5 seconds. The Niro EV offers a more refined ride than its competitors, and wind and road noise are significantly less noticeable in the Niro than in the Tesla Model 3.
The standard Tesla Model 3 features a 0 to 97 km/h acceleration time of 5.3 seconds, 423 km driving range, and rear-wheel drive. The Model 3 features accurate and well-weighted steering, but it has a firm ride and lets plenty of road noise into the cabin.
The 2021 Kia Niro is available in two models for drivers in Calgary: EX and EX Premium. Starting at $44,995, the EX model is well equipped with heated front seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and many driver-assist features.
The 2021 Tesla Model 3 is available in three model configurations: Standard Plus, Long Range AWD, and Performance. The driving ranges and prices are different on all three with the lowest model costing $52,990, and the highest Performance level costing $74,990.
The 2021 Tesla Model 3 might have the name recognition and wow factor, but for drivers that are looking for an introduction to EVs, the 2021 Kia Niro EV is the right choice. Priced right with great features and a similar driving experience to gas-powered engines, the Niro offers more space and more comfort than the Model 3.
Categories: Tesla Model 3, Kia Niro EV