If remarkable value, great efficiency, and a practical layout are important to you, the 2022 Kia Niro range has something you’ll enjoy. It’s available as a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, or an all-electric vehicle. The question isn’t so much whether you’ll find one that’s right for you, it’s which one is right for you?
Despite its seemingly small size, the 2022 Kia 000270, -1.16% Niro is surprisingly roomy inside, making it a fitting option for commuters who need space but also need to find parking. The Niro is also efficient: It gets up to 50 mpg combined with its standard hybrid model for certain trims. This goes up to 105 mpg-equivalent combined for the plug-in hybrid and an even higher 112 mpg-equivalent for the all-electric 2022 Niro.
Aside from the excellent efficiency and compact but smart sizing, the Niro offers seating for five passengers, dual-zone climate control, and wireless Apple AAPL, +3.28% CarPlay and Android Auto. It also includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, cruise control, roof rails, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and more.
Learn more: What is EV, BEV, HEV, PHEV? Here’s your guide to types of electric cars
So, what makes each variant different? How do you decide? Let’s break each model down by price, efficiency, and unique features:
2022 Kia Niro Hybrid
Starting from $24,690, the standard 2022 Niro Hybrid model offers great value for its features. It comes with plenty of space, impressive technology, and a long warranty. Additionally, it boasts excellent gas mileage at 53 mpg city / 48 mpg highway / 50 mpg combined at the base LX trim. For the higher trims with additional features, this changes to a still-impressive 51/46/49 mpg (LXS, LXS Special Edition, and EX Premium) and 46/40/43 mpg (Touring Special Edition).
Read: 10 top hybrids for less than $30,000
If you’re looking for the most affordable entry point to the Niro range — not to mention one of the most affordable ways to reach 50 mpg with a new vehicle — the standard Niro Hybrid might be the one for you.
2022 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid
The 2022 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid offers even better peak efficiency. It has a combined rating of 105 mpg-equivalent (MPGe) when the 32-kWh battery is fully charged, and 46 mpg combined when used as a standard hybrid. The plug-in hybrid can drive up to 26 miles on electricity alone.
Pricing starts from $29,590, making it an ideal fit for those with a more flexible budget. It is also eligible for up to a $4,543 federal tax credit. This plug-in hybrid gives drivers who want the ability to do some all-electric driving but who prefer the greater range and fueling flexibility when compared to an all-electric vehicle.
2022 Kia Niro EV
The 2022 Kia Niro EV ditches the 1.6-liter 4-cylinder from its hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions and uses a 201-horsepower, 291-lb-ft electric motor instead. It has a stated range of 239 miles in addition to its 112 mpg-equivalent rating. Combined with its 50-state availability and a host of high-tech cabin features, this makes the $39,990 starting price seem reasonable. This full EV is eligible for up to a $7,500 federal tax credit.
Also see: The pros and cons of electric cars
This 239-mile range puts the Kia Niro EV on par with its primary competitive set — the Hyundai Kona and Chevrolet Bolt EUV. It should be noted that in third-party testing, Kia pegs the range at 293 miles.
This story originally ran on KBB.com.