Generally, yes, though pricing keeps the decision from being a total blowout. For 2026, Hyundai cut the Kona Electric down to one SE trim with a smaller battery, which puts the Niro EV ahead on EPA-estimated range (253 miles versus 200), the number of trims available (Wind and Wave against a single SE), and screen setup (dual 10.25-inch displays versus a lone 12.3-inch unit). Both brands back their EVs with a matching 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, so factory coverage lines up evenly. Where the Kona Electric likely comes out ahead is a lower starting price, though Hyundai hadn't locked in 2026 figures as of this writing.

It's the Niro EV, and not by a small amount this year. Hyundai cut the 2026 Kona Electric lineup down to one SE trim built on a 48.6 kWh Standard Range battery, rated by the EPA at 200 miles — gone is the 64.8 kWh Long Range battery that upper trims once offered, along with its 261-mile figure. Meanwhile, both Niro EV trims, Wind and Wave, carry an EPA-estimated 253 miles.

Likely not, but confirm the numbers before you decide. As of publication, Hyundai still hadn't officially announced 2026 Kona Electric SE pricing; based on the previous model year, figure on a starting point around $32,975, compared to $39,700 for the Niro EV Wind (neither including destination). Should that hold true, the Kona Electric would start noticeably cheaper, but you'd be trading down to a smaller battery and 53 fewer EPA-estimated miles.

Not as large as most expect - each brand backs its EV with matching factory coverage, a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. In short, warranty coverage is essentially a tie between the two.

Just one. For 2026, Hyundai trimmed the Kona Electric lineup to a single SE build with the Standard Range battery, discontinuing both the SEL and Limited trims as well as the previously available longer-range battery. By comparison, the Kia Niro EV still comes in two trims, Wind and Wave, and both share the same 253-mile EPA-estimated range.

Its likely strong suit is a lower starting price - as of publication Hyundai hadn't confirmed 2026 figures, but if it comes in near last year's roughly $32,975, it would beat the Niro EV Wind by a meaningful gap. Standard equipment on the Kona Electric also includes Hyundai's SmartSense driver-assist and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. If entry-level cost is your top priority, it deserves consideration and a fresh pricing check when you're ready to shop. On range, trim variety, and motor output, though, the Niro EV remains the stronger pick.

You'll find Dean McCrary Kia at 7124 US Hwy 98 in Hattiesburg, right where I-59, US-49, US-98, and US-11 all meet, and we keep a full Niro EV lineup on hand for buyers throughout Forrest, Lamar, Covington, and Perry counties, including Petal, Oak Grove, Purvis, Columbia, and the rest of the Pine Belt. Stop in and take a Niro EV for a spin yourself.