A growing number of our clients are asking for help comparing the various electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids on the market. In this post, we’ll take a look at the Kia Niro plug-in hybrid and the all-electric Hyundai Kona. Kia is expected to release an all-electric version of the Niro later this year.

Kia Niro Plug-in vs. Hyundai Kona Electric

We’ve configured a sample vehicle for each car and then examined some of the key differentiating factors of each. Our sample models are based on popular configurations among Cartelligent clients.

  • 2019 Kia Niro Plug-in: Our example Niro EX is configured with leather trim, rear cross traffic alert and blind spot detection at an MSRP of $33,575.
  • 2017 Hyundai Kona Electric: Our sample Kona is the Limited with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, sunroof, leather trim, blind spot collision warning, and rear cross traffic collision warning. MSRP as configured is $42,565.
Vehicle Comparison

We’ll look at the features of each vehicle side-by-side.

Niro Kona
Model Type 2017 Kia Niro EX 2017 Hyundai Kona Limited
MSRP $33,575 $42,565
Engine and Fuel Economy
Niro Kona
Horsepower 139 201
Electric-Only MPGe 105 120
City/Hwy MPG 46 n/a
Charging and Range
Niro Kona
Electric-only range 26 miles 258 miles
Charge time 2.5 hours (with 240V Charger) 6.5 hours (with 240V Charger)
California HOV Lane Access Yes (with sticker) Yes (with sticker)
Capacities
Niro Kona
Seating 5 5
Cargo volume 19.2 ft3 19.4 ft3
Cargo volume (rear seats folded) 45.8 ft3 54.5 ft3

The all-electric Kona has a fantastic range of 258 miles while the Niro has a more limited range in electric-only mode, but gives you the flexibility to drive another 534 miles in gas mode.

Cost to purchase: Kia Niro Plug-in vs. Hyundai Kona Electric

First, we’ll examine the cost of each when purchased. All payments represent pricing based on market conditions at the time of writing.

Niro Kona
MSRP $33,575 $42,565
Down payment $2,500 $2,500
Monthly payment (inc. tax) $605 $840
Total of payments over five years $38,195 $52,060
Federal Rebates (income tax credits) up to $4,542 up to $7,500
California State Rebates (with qualifying income) up to $1,500 up to $2,500

Before rebates, the Niro costs about $13,300 less than the Kona over the course of the loan. Purchasers of either vehicle can apply for Federal income tax credits of up to $7,500. California residents may also be eligible to apply for additional state rebates (depending on their income level). See Further changes to California plug-in and electric vehicle rebates.

Cost to lease: Kia Niro Plug-in vs. Hyundai Kona Electric

Next, we’ll compare the two vehicles on a three-year, 12,000 mile/year lease.

Niro Kona
MSRP $33,575 $42,565
Down payment $2,500 $2,500
Monthly payment (inc. tax) $435 $655
Lease disposition fee $350 $350
Total of payments over three years $18,075 $23,275
Federal Rebates (income tax credits) up to $4,542 up to $7,500
California State Rebates (with qualifying income) up to $1,500 up to $2,500

The Niro saves around $5,000 (before state rebates) over the course of the lease. Both vehicles qualify for the same Federal rebates as above, qualifying Californians will need to file separately for the State rebates.

Which to buy: Chevrolet Niro or Kona

Both vehicles can be fantastic options depending on your personal circumstances. Your Cartelligent agent can talk you through the pros and cons of each vehicle (as well as any other brands) to help you make an educated decision.

Whether you want a new electric vehicle or any other new car, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.