FIRST DRIVES
KIA NIRO EV
Electric crossover proved extremely popular, so the pressure is on its replacement
TESTER’S NOTE
Prices start at a reasonable £34,995, but this range-topping 4 version is £41,395, which is only £300 less than the faster, rangier and more stylish EV6. JD
TESTED 19.5.22, OSLO, NORWAY ON SALE AUTUMN
It would perhaps be a bit of an understatement to suggest that the automotive industry is struggling a little at the moment.Still reeling from the pandemic, it’s now dealing with supply chain chaos and a cost-of-living crisis. However, it appears that nobody bothered to tell Kia about these problems.
You see, while many have been toiling, the Korean brand has been soaring. Last year, it increased its sales in Europe by more than 20%, growing its market share from 3.5% to 4.3%. More importantly, at some points during 2021, nearly half of all its sales were electrified – and a chunk of those were the e-Niro.