The Short Answer
For most car buyers looking for the best value in a new compact EV, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the best overall recommendation due to its lowest starting MSRP at $35,000 and a competitive 245-mile EPA range. The Honda Prologue offers the longest range at 308 miles but comes with a higher starting price of $39,900, while the Kia Niro EV provides a 253-mile range at $39,700.
Car buyers and current EV owners often compare new compact electric vehicles to find the best balance of cost, features, and reliability for their daily needs.
This comparison focuses on real-world ownership costs and practical features of the Kia Niro EV, Honda Prologue, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Price | Free Plan | Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Niro EV | $39,700 starting MSRP (2026 Wind trim) — 253 mi EPA range | N/A — vehicle purchase | 2026-09-17 |
| Honda Prologue | $39,900 starting MSRP (2026 EX trim) — 308 mi EPA range | N/A — vehicle purchase | 2026-09-17 |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | $35,000 starting MSRP (2026 SE Standard Range) — 245 mi EPA range | N/A — vehicle purchase | 2026-09-16 |
How We Compare
The prices and plan details in the table above are what we recorded for each option, last checked between 2026-09-16 and 2026-09-17. Each section below links to the official site. Prices change often, so confirm the current price there before you decide.
Kia Niro EV
Verified 2026-09-17Overview
The Kia Niro EV is an electric vehicle model offering a starting MSRP of $39,700 for the 2026 Wind trim with a 253-mile EPA range. It is designed for those seeking affordable electric vehicle ownership with a focus on practicality and efficiency.
- 253-mile EPA range
- Starting MSRP of $39,700
- 2026 Wind trim availability
Budget-conscious buyers looking for a practical electric vehicle with a decent range for everyday use.
- Affordable starting price for an EV
- Good EPA range for daily commuting
- No free plan available for vehicle purchase
Honda Prologue
Verified 2026-09-17Overview
The Honda Prologue is a new electric vehicle model starting at $39,900 MSRP for the 2026 EX trim with a 308-mile EPA estimated range. It is designed for buyers seeking an affordable electric vehicle option with a focus on practicality and modern features.
- 308-mile EPA range
- 2026 EX trim starting price of $39,900
- Vehicle purchase option
Current EV owners looking for a cost-effective upgrade with a practical range and modern features.
- Affordable starting price for an EV
- EPA range suitable for daily driving needs
- No free plan available for vehicle purchase
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an electric vehicle model with a starting MSRP of $35,000 for the 2026 SE Standard Range version, offering a 245-mile EPA range. It is designed for buyers seeking an affordable electric vehicle with practical features.
- 245-mile EPA range for daily driving needs
- Starting MSRP of $35,000 for the 2026 SE Standard Range
- Vehicle purchase option for owners
Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize daily commuting within a 245-mile range and need a cost-effective electric vehicle option.
- Affordable entry price for electric vehicle ownership
- Standard range suitable for most daily commutes
- Limited range compared to some competitors
How to Choose the Right Option
Sticker price variation
The upfront cost of an electric vehicle is a primary budget consideration for most buyers. You should compare the base manufacturer suggested retail price of each model to determine which fits your immediate financial constraints.
EPA range estimates
Official efficiency ratings indicate how far a car can travel on a single charge. It is important to review the estimated miles per charge for each option to see if it aligns with your typical daily driving distances.
Trim level features
Different base trims often include varying standard equipment and hardware configurations. Check the specific feature list associated with each model's entry-level configuration to ensure it meets your needs without requiring expensive add-ons.
Run the numbers for your own driving
Enter your mileage and electricity rate in the EV vs Gas Cost Calculator to see a yearly estimate.
Which Option Is Best
The Kia Niro EV is best for readers who prioritize the lowest starting MSRP and need a compact EV with a 253-mile EPA range. The Honda Prologue suits readers seeking the highest EPA range (308 miles) with a slightly higher starting price. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is ideal for readers wanting the lowest starting MSRP among the three and a 245-mile EPA range.
FAQ
What is the starting price for each EV?
Kia Niro EV starts at $39,700, Honda Prologue starts at $39,900, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 starts at $35,000.
Which EV has the highest EPA range?
Honda Prologue has the highest EPA range at 308 miles.
Which EV has the lowest EPA range?
Hyundai Ioniq 5 has the lowest EPA range at 245 miles.
How do I choose between these EVs based on the facts provided?
Consider the starting price and EPA range. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers the lowest starting price at $35,000 with a 245-mile EPA range. The Honda Prologue has the highest EPA range at 308 miles but starts at $39,900. The Kia Niro EV starts at $39,700 with a 253-mile EPA range.
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Pricing shown was accurate at the time of publishing and may change — verify on the official site.