2026 Kia Niro EX: Manahawkin Buyers Guide

The trim where the tech steps up

The jump from LX to EX is a real one, not a badge swap. The 8-inch radio screen becomes a 10.25-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation, SiriusXM, and a built-in modem for connected services. The driver's seat goes from 6-way manual to 10-way power with lumbar support. Front seats get heated, the key fob upgrades to a Smart Key with push-button start and remote start — genuinely useful on a July afternoon in a Route 72 parking lot — and the driver-assist suite gains Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with Stop&Go and Highway Driving Assist, both absent on the LX. Rain-sensing wipers and second-row air vents round it out. For most shoppers cross-comparing trims, EX is where the Niro stops feeling like a rental-fleet spec and starts feeling like a car you'd actually choose.

The EX Premium Package, explained

A $2,000 option available on EX bundles a power sunroof with sunshade, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and a power liftgate — the trio of comfort items that otherwise wait for SX. It's worth a quick clarification since Kia's own spec sheet has one confusing wrinkle: the Premium Package does not change the EX's wheel size. EX and EX Premium both ride on the same 16-inch alloys as LX and SX; only the range-topping SX Touring steps up to 18s. If a sunroof and better speakers matter more to you than the ventilated seats and full leather-look upholstery of the SX, the Premium Package is the more efficient way to get there.

What Manahawkin buyers say

Manahawkin Kia's reviews consistently mention a low-pressure buying process, which tends to matter most for shoppers stepping up from a base trim and weighing whether the extra spend is worth it. One buyer summed up the overall experience: "They took the time to answer all of my questions, explain the features... There was no pressure, just great customer service and honest communication." That same tone shows up across years of five-star reviews from Niro buyers working with the dealership's sales team, several of whom — Bobby Thomas, Chandler Isaksen, Adam Klimas — are named repeatedly by returning customers.

Frequently asked questions

How much is the 2026 Kia Niro EX?

$30,190 MSRP before the $1,495 destination charge, or $32,190 with the EX Premium Package. Add New Jersey's 6.625% sales tax, title, and registration for your out-the-door figure — check current Manahawkin Kia offers before you finalize a number.

What does the EX add over the LX?

A 10.25-inch navigation touchscreen (versus the LX's 8-inch radio-only screen), a 10-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, a wireless phone charger, Smart Key with remote start, rain-sensing wipers, second-row air vents, paddle shifters, and Highway Driving Assist with Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control. The safety-suite basics and hybrid powertrain carry over from the LX unchanged.

Is the EX Premium Package worth it?

If you want a sunroof, better sound, and a hands-free power liftgate but don't need the SX's ventilated seats or leather-look upholstery, yes — $2,000 gets you most of what makes the SX feel special without stepping all the way up. Compare the full feature list on the SX guide before deciding.

Does the Niro EX come with all-wheel drive?

No — like every 2026 Niro hybrid trim, the EX is front-wheel drive only. There's no AWD option anywhere in the current Niro hybrid lineup.

What's the fuel economy on the EX?

The same as the rest of the lineup: EPA-rated 53 city, 45 highway, 49 combined. The Premium Package's added weight doesn't change the wheel size or the certified rating, so choosing EX over LX doesn't cost you at the pump.

The bottom line on the EX

The Niro EX is the trim most shoppers land on once they've test-driven the LX and wanted just a bit more — bigger screen, warmer seats, a smarter key. It's the Niro that feels complete without stretching into SX money. Browse EX inventory at Manahawkin Kia, or schedule a test drive to compare it against the LX in one visit.