Kia Discontinues Niro EV as Brand Pivots to Dedicated Electric Models

Kia has officially discontinued the Niro EV as part of a broader shift toward its newer dedicated electric vehicle lineup. The decision was confirmed during the unveiling of the refreshed 2026 Kia Niro in South Korea, which will now be offered exclusively with a hybrid powertrain.

The move removes a long-running entry from the affordable EV segment, though new electric models from multiple automakers are quickly stepping in to compete in the same price category.

Kia discontinues Niro EV

According to reports from The Korea Herald, Kia confirmed that production of the Niro EV has ended as the company focuses on its newer generation of purpose-built electric vehicles.

“The Niro EV, which had been produced until the previous model, has been discontinued,” said Jung Yoon-kyung, senior manager on Kia’s marketing team, during a media preview of the updated Niro lineup.

The refreshed 2026 Niro will launch solely as a hybrid, with updates focused on digital connectivity and convenience features rather than additional powertrain options, according to GM Authority.

Kia said the decision reflects its strategy to concentrate resources on the brand’s expanding EV lineup built on dedicated platforms, including models such as the EV3, EV4, and EV9.

“To concentrate more on those models, we decided to discontinue the (Niro EV),” Jung said.

Remaining inventory of the Niro EV is expected to be sold while supplies last.

Affordable EV competition continues

While the Niro EV leaves the subcompact electric crossover segment, competition in the affordable EV space continues to grow.

Several automakers are introducing new vehicles positioned near the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt, which remains one of the most affordable EVs in the U.S. market.

Toyota recently unveiled the 2026 Toyota C-HR EV, which is expected to offer all-wheel drive and an estimated 290 miles of range. Subaru has also introduced the 2026 Subaru Uncharted, another compact electric SUV targeting the same category.

Mitsubishi has confirmed plans for a new EV scheduled for a summer 2026 debut, developed through its alliance with Nissan and based on the next-generation Nissan Leaf platform.

Even as the Niro EV nameplate fades, Kia continues expanding its electric lineup. The recently revealed Kia EV4 sedan has already entered the conversation around affordable EVs in several markets.

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