For 2021 Significant exterior and interior update.Completely revised powertrain lineup, including a newly available hybrid.New range-topping Calligraphy trim.
Pros Abundant standard features for the money Generous warranty coverage Smooth operation of advanced driver aids Quick acceleration from available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine
Cons Overly soft suspension tuning dilutes driver enjoyment 10.25-inch touchscreen can be a bit slow to respond
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe makes premium gains with hybrid and turbo-4 power and a Palisade-like interior.
Pros Larger standard and available touchscreens Hybrid models Potent powertrains Revised transmission Luxe Calligraphy edition
Cons Moderate base-engine power Middling fuel economy (except Hybrid) Busy body
The Santa Fe receives a visual freshening for 2021 that includes bolder front-end styling and improvements to its interior. Three new powertrains are offered: A 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the standard 2.4-liter unit, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter, and a hybrid variant powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor joins the lineup.
Pros Relative bargain compared to rivals, relaxed demeanor, nicely-equipped cabin.
Cons Nonhybrid models could be more fuel efficient, tight rear seat headroom, no third-row option.
The 2020 Kia Niro EV comes with a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 10 yr./ 100000 mi. powertrain warranty.Redesigned headlights.EX trim level gets standard 8-inch touchscreen.EX Premium trim now includes 10.25-inch touchscreen.
Pros Lots of standard safety features Plenty of driving range for an affordable EV Fun to drive with zippy acceleration and surprisingly decent handling Clever interior storage options
Cons All-wheel drive isn't available despite crossover styling Leather upholstery is a little stiff
The Kia Niro EV gets more screen space for 2020, and it remains one of the roomiest of the affordable long-range electric vehicles.
Pros Roomy interior Simple, intuitive interface Great infotainment systems Packed with features
Cons Not a $45,000 car in the up-close details Busy ride motions Benchlike front seats Odd center console layout
The 2020 Kia Niro's #6 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. It was a finalist for our 2020 Best Hybrid or Electric SUV for the Money award. Currently the Kia Niro has a score of 7.4 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 18 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent fuel economy Spacious interior when compared with subcompact SUVs Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Not available with all-wheel drive Interior not as upscale as rivals’ Unimpressive acceleration
