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For the last five years, our family has relied on a single vehicle: a 64kWh Kia e-Niro. It wasn’t a purchase I agonised over for months. In fact, it was recommended by an industry friend who knew of a dealer offering a strong deal. I’d driven plenty of electric cars before, yet I had never even seen an e-Niro in the metal – until the day my neighbour bought one. Coincidentally, that was the same day I’d paid the deposit for ours.
This anecdote speaks to one of the enduring advantages of electric cars: regardless of make or model, they are all superb to drive. Instant torque, smooth acceleration, and a quiet, composed ride make them enjoyable from the moment you get behind the wheel – and this is true whether new or pre-loved.
So, without a test drive, our new car arrived in our driveway. With a WLTP-rated range of 282 miles, I was anticipating a significant upgrade from our first EV, a second-hand Nissan LEAF that has now moved through three or four families. The e-Niro has not disappointed, and in many ways, it has exceeded expectations.
The e-Niro is a small family-sized SUV that feels solid and capable. Its safety credentials are particularly reassuring: lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control make every journey feel secure. Combined with a robust build and high crash-test ratings, it is a car that inspires confidence for family trips or everyday commutes.
From my perspective as a woman, the elevated driving position is a major bonus. It provides excellent visibility in city traffic, during school runs, and on long motorway drives. The boot is generous, perfect for prams, shopping, or Taekwondo kit, and the interior details, such as the seat belts that sit comfortably, multiple cup holders, and intuitive controls, make life easier for both driver and passengers. Even my daughter appreciates the attention to detail – especially the multiple cup holders and the heated seats in the front.
Being able to mostly charge at home is an advantage. Over the past five years, I estimate that I’ve saved around £1,000 a year by never setting foot on a fuel forecourt, and mostly avoiding the more expensive public chargers. The e-Niro comes with a seven-year warranty covering the battery. In half a decade, it has required just one garage visit to repair an inverter coolant fluid leak – fully covered by the warranty.
At just over 35,000 miles, this car still feels fresh and capable. Pre-loved e-Niros of the same age and mileage are currently listed at around £13,000 on Autotrader – a remarkable bargain for a car that continues to impress.
And now, to the question posed in the title: why does this car get better with age? As we move into October, battery performance typically dips in cooler weather. Yet, on a crisp Autumn morning, our e-Niro displayed a fully charged range of 306 miles. To put that in perspective, the highest I have ever seen in peak summer heat was 300 miles. This car really does offer great efficiency and range, even after five years of driving.
This is why the e-Niro isn’t just a solid EV, it’s a car that grows more impressive over time. Its practicality, efficiency, and reliability make it a standout choice for anyone considering a second-hand electric car. Whether you’re motivated by cost savings, sustainability, or the sheer pleasure of driving, the Kia e-Niro is a vehicle that continues to deliver, year after year.
For families, commuters, and everyday drivers alike, it’s evident that sometimes, the best things in life improve with age – and a five-year-old e-Niro is living proof of this.
Gill Nowell
