Kia Niro Hybrid: Open up to a world of wonder

Launched in France in early 2016, the Kia Niro hybrid is the Korean automaker’s very first compact crossover. In 2022, its slightly too “pass everywhere” design gives way to an aesthetic revolution. So, if you’re a forward thinker at heart, open to new things, and in search of meaning and sustainability, this hybrid vehicle is for you!

New Kia Niro hybrid design 2022

Featuring an enlarged two-tone “Tiger Face” grille and much more expressive lines, the new Kia Niro Hybrid is sure to turn heads. Its hexagonal shape reveals its avant-garde and high-tech character from all angles. In the electric version, the grille is topped by a charging socket in a central position.

The rear of the vehicle is sober. The lights are boomerang-shaped, the reflector “Heartbeat” and the bumper has a classic and imposing profile. This design blends perfectly with the front end with its clean and sophisticated lines. Depending on the selected trim level, the Kia Niro Hybrid benefits from specific 16 or 18 inch alloy wheels.

Interior

Inside, the new Kia Niro Hybrid inherits the look of the Kia EV6 and combines the best of design and technology. In front of him, the driver has a dashboard with a panoramic display of 10.25 inches (depending on version) 100% digital. The latter is composed of two high-definition digital screens, which combine at a glance, driving information and infotainment functions.

The materials are chosen with taste and are environmentally friendly. This is the case of the upholstery, developed with different trimmings. Fabric, mixed fabric/artificial leather, and artificial leather. For an even more natural look, the latter contains Tencel made from eucalyptus wood.

Dimensions

As far as dimensions are concerned, the new version of the Korean SUV is 4.42 m long and 1.82 m wide. That’s just 3 cm less than a Peugeot 3008. In height, the Kia Niro hybrid is 1.58 m.

On the trunk side, its load capacity reaches 451 liters (more than 100 liters better than the previous version) and up to 1,445 liters with the rear seats folded. The Kia Niro Hybrid can tow up to 750 kg.

Hybrid engine and performance

In terms of power, it retains the 105 hp 1.6-liter GDI combined with a 43 hp electric motor, driven by a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Together, the engines provide a total of 141 hp of power and 265 Nm of torque. The Korean car manufacturer announces a 0 to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds, and a top speed of 165 km/h.

Kia Niro Hybrid Battery

It is the 1.32 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery that supplies energy to the electric motor. In order not to take up too much storage space, the battery is installed under the rear seats. It recharges every time you decelerate.

Consumption and CO2 emissions

Depending on the trim level chosen, the Kia Niro Hybrid has an average fuel consumption of 4.4 to 4.7 l/100 km in the WLTP cycle, with CO2 emissions of 100 to 105 g/km.

Which fuel for Kia Niro hybrid?

Going to the gas pump is a moment of doubt for most people. But just like the Niro Plug-In Hybrid, Kia recommends using unleaded gasoline.

Which finishes to choose?

The Kia Niro hybrid offers five different trim levels: Motion, Active, Premium, including two reserved for professionals: Active Business and premium Business. All you have to do is choose the trim level with the equipment that suits you best:

Motion

Active

Premium

Kia Niro hybrid: its price

The Niro Hybrid starts at €31,790, excluding bonuses, for the Motion trim, and up to €36,990 for the top-of-the-line Premium trim. The latter is a little more affordable than a 122-hp Toyota C-HR.

Our opinion

The Korean manufacturer Kia has significantly improved the key qualities of its Niro hybrid. It has set its sights on modernity, thanks to a new design and a 100% digital interior. The latter is just as comfortable in the city as on long journeys. But will it be as successful as the current generation?

Source

This post is also available in Site en allemand, Site en espagnol and Site en italien.