The 2026 Kia Niro EV offers three trims - WIND, WIND+, and WAVE - each designed for a different type of buyer. Here's a breakdown of what sets each trim apart and who benefits most from each one.
Trim Comparison at a Glance
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Trim
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Key Differentiator
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Best For
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WIND
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Core EV features, cloth seats, 10.25" multimedia
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Budget-conscious buyers who want solid range and tech
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WIND+
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Adds heat pump, power liftgate, heated steering wheel
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Daily drivers who want comfort upgrades
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WAVE
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Full LED lighting, Harman Kardon audio, V2L, synthetic leather
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Tech enthusiasts who want premium features
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WIND: The Smart Starting Point
The WIND trim is built for buyers who want a capable electric crossover without paying for extras they don't need. It includes the full 64.8 kWh battery, rated at 407 km of range, and the same 201 hp motor found across the lineup. You get a 10.25" multimedia interface with integrated navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect - everything you need for a connected drive. The safety suite covers the full range of collision warning and automatic braking systems, all standard.
The WIND rides on 17" alloy wheels and features cloth seats, heated front seats, and automatic climate control. If you're looking for an EV that handles the daily commute and weekend errands without compromise, the WIND delivers.
Key WIND Features:
- 17" alloy wheels
- 10.25" multimedia interface with integrated navigation
- Cloth seats
- Heated front seats
WIND+: Comfort and Convenience Upgrades
The WIND+ adds features that make daily driving more comfortable. The heat pump is a standout - it enhances range in cold weather by using less battery power to heat the cabin. You also get a power liftgate, wireless phone charger, and heated steering wheel. The seats upgrade to a cloth and synthetic leather combination, and the driver's seat gains power adjustment with lumbar support.
If you live in a climate with cold winters or you simply want a more refined interior, the WIND+ is the trim that balances value and comfort.
WIND+ Adds:
- Heat pump (range-enhancing climate control)
- Power liftgate
- Wireless phone charger
- Heated steering wheel
- Cloth and synthetic leather seats
- Power adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support
- Roof rails
WAVE: Premium Features and V2L Technology

The WAVE is designed for buyers who want the full tech experience. It includes full LED headlights and fog lights, a power sunroof, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The Digital Key feature lets you use your smartphone as a secure key, and the heads-up display projects key driving information onto the windshield.
The WAVE also includes Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, which turns your Niro EV into a 120V AC power source. If you camp, tailgate, or need backup power for tools or appliances, V2L adds real utility. The interior upgrades to synthetic leather seats with air-cooled front seats, heated rear seats, and a driver's seat memory function.
Advanced safety features include parking collision-avoidance assist, advanced highway driving assist, and remote smart parking assist - you can park with the touch of a button.
WAVE Adds:
- Full LED headlights and fog lights
- Power sunroof
- Harman Kardon premium audio system
- Digital Key
- Heads-up display (HUD)
- V2L (vehicle-to-load)
- Synthetic leather seats
- Air-cooled front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Advanced safety and parking assist systems
Shared Across All Trims
Every 2026 Niro EV includes the same powertrain: a 64.8 kWh battery, 201 hp motor, and 407 km of rated range. All trims support DC fast charging from 10-80% in 43 minutes with a 350 kW charger, and Level 2 AC charging from 10-100% in 6 hours 5 minutes with an 11 kW charger. Cargo capacity is 646 litres with the rear seats up and 1,805 litres with them folded.
The safety suite is standard across the lineup: 7 airbags, lane keeping and follow assist, forward collision-avoidance assist with Junction Turning Function, blind spot collision-avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic avoidance assist, and highway driving assist.
Key Specs
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Spec
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Value
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Battery
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64.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer
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Motor
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Permanent Magnet AC Synchronous Motor
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Power
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201 hp
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Torque
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188 lb-ft
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Drivetrain
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FWD
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Range
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407 km
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DC Fast Charge (10-80%)
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43 minutes (350 kW)
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Level 2 AC Charge (10-100%)
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6 hours 5 minutes (11 kW)
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Cargo (seats up / folded)
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646 L / 1,805 L
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Fuel Economy Equivalent
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2.1 L/100 km combined
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Which Trim Is Right for You?
If you want a capable EV with strong range and core tech, the WIND is the smart choice. If you drive in cold weather or want added comfort features, the WIND+ is worth the step up. If you want premium audio, advanced safety systems, and V2L capability, the WAVE delivers the full experience.
Visit Plaza Kia in Richmond Hill to explore the 2026 Niro EV lineup in person.
To learn more about the 2026 Kia Niro EV, visit Kia.ca