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.