Niro – Automobiles Review

The all-new 2023 Kia Niro debuts

2023 Kia Niro

Today, the all-new Kia Niro CUV made its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show. The next-generation Niro has been designed from the ground up to meet and exceed the expectations of eco-minded consumers. With striking styling cues and a commitment to sustainability and connectivity throughout, the 2023 Niro will launch in the United States with three highly efficient, electrified powertrains: hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-electric (EV).

“Kia’s electrified vehicle momentum continues with the launch of the all-new second-generation Niro, which offers more refinement, versatility, connectivity, and technology than ever,” said Steven Center, COO & EVP, Kia America. “The 2023 Niro was designed for today’s needs and for sustainable future mobility.”

An urban environment like Manhattan, where space is at a premium, provides an optimal backdrop for the launch of the 2023 Niro. When it arrives at Kia retailers in all 50 states late fall, 2022, the 2023 Niro family will present state-of-the-art electrified powertrain options and outstanding efficiency wrapped in a sleek, aerodynamic, and technologically focused package. In its second generation, Niro remains the only vehicle on the market available with three different electrified propulsion options.

Shaped by Nature

Inside and out, the 2023 Niro features bold design inspired by the “Opposites United” philosophy that infuses inspiration from nature with aerodynamic refinement. The exterior of the 2023 Niro embodies a sophisticated and adventurous sense of purpose that takes strong influence from the 2019 HabaNiro concept, and it achieves an impressive drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29. Its upswept, striking daytime running lights (DRL) flank the signature tiger nose grille, which has evolved with the new Kia brand identity. At the rear, boomerang-shaped LED taillights sit alongside uncomplicated surface treatments for a concise and aerodynamic styling combination, while the heartbeat-shaped rear reflector, rugged looking skid plate garnish and lower bumper enhance the front-end design. Niro HEV and Niro PHEV can be identified by black door cladding and wheel arches, while Niro EV is distinguished by Steel Grey or black exterior trim, depending on body color.

The all-new Kia Niro features a bold and dynamic design inspired by the brand’s acclaimed ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, and specifically its design pillar ‘Joy for Reason’. The treatment takes inspiration from nature, while the choice of colors, materials and finishes aim to strike the perfect balance between an environmentally responsible approach to mobility and a future-oriented passenger car vision.

The side profile of the 2023 Kia Niro is accentuated by the Aero Blade, a highly distinctive shape that also aids airflow underneath. The Aero Blade can be painted in body color or in a variety of contrasting colors. Further enhancing the profile of Niro HEV and Niro PHEV are optional 18-inch wheels inspired by the HabaNiro.

Dimensionally, the 2023 Niro retains a compact footprint but is incrementally larger than the vehicle it replaces. The wheelbase increases to 107.1 inches, and overall length increases to 174 inches. Cargo capacity behind the rear seats increases to 22.8 cubic feet. And with 6.3 inches of ground clearance, Niro can easily handle urban activities. With these changes, Niro has 8 more cubic feet of passenger cabin room and 50 percent more cargo room than the Tesla Model 3.

Forward-Looking Interior Design

Complementing the bold exterior of the all-new Niro is an avant-garde interior, styled and upholstered with premium materials and textured surfaces. Its parametric design borrows cues from the all-electric EV6 for a tech-focused environment in all configurations and trims.

Upscale touches abound inside the 2023 Niro, and sustainability is integral to the materiality of the passenger compartment. The interior of Niro EV is composed of animal-free textiles, including the premium seating surfaces to touchpoints throughout the cabin. The headliner is composed of recycled wallpaper, which contains 56 percent reused PET fibers. The slim, contemporary seats with integrated coat hangers enhance roominess, and they are covered by high-quality bio polyurethane and Tencel made from eucalyptus leaves. BTX-free paint, which is free from benzene, toluene, and xylene isomers, is used on the door panels to minimize the impact on the environment and reduce waste.

Style and in-car technology contribute to a sense of calm in the interior of the all-new Kia Niro. The off-center dashboard curves around the front occupants, with opposing horizontal and diagonal lines leading to a calming yet daring aesthetic. Available panoramic, dual 10.25-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system create a powerful, first visual impression, and offer state-of-the-art connectivity. Ambient mood lighting in a multitude of color combinations heightens the senses while creating a serene environment. Active Sound Design allows the driver to digitally enhance the engine and motor sounds of the Niro; an eight-speaker Harman/Kardon premium sound system is optional. The front seats, which feature optional heating and ventilation, offer standard USB ports on the side and optional seat memory positions on some variants.

Thanks to developments in interior packaging, the 2023 Niro now offers the roominess of a vehicle one size larger—and best-in-class passenger room. Generous front and rear headroom, legroom, and shoulder room demonstrate Kia’s commitment to passenger comfort and spaciousness.

Vehicle Technology Takes Center Stage

Advanced vehicle technology manifests in myriad forms in the all-new Kia Niro, from customizable vehicle settings through the in-dash infotainment system to class-leading, standard active safety equipment.

Approaching the vehicle, heartbeat-inspired DRLs and available power-folding mirrors act as a warm greeting. Once inside, available memory seats on some variants recall the driver’s position, and programmable mood lighting sets the scene. An available Head-Up Display (HUD) projects directions, active safety warnings, vehicle speed, and current infotainment directly in the driver’s line of sight. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability are standard, and a wireless phone charger is optional.4

The 2023 Niro EV is available with the same vehicle-to-load (V2L) onboard generator functionality pioneered by the EV65.

Standard, cutting-edge ADAS6 technology on the 2023 Niro includes:

Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) with Pedestrian detection capability: Warns if there is risk of a collision with a pedestrian in front of the vehicle while driving and may automatically assist with braking
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Helps detect lane markings and provides steering inputs to help prevent the vehicle from leaving the lane while driving
Lane Following Assist (LFA): Helps detect lane markings and vehicles ahead and provides steering inputs to help center the vehicle in the lane
Driver Attention Warning (DAW)7: Analyzes the driver attention level and provides a warning if a break is recommended. It may also provide a leading vehicle departure alert if the leading vehicle departs from a stop and the driver does not react within a certain time period
Blind Spot Collision Avoidance (BCA) with Parallel Exit: May help avoid collisions with rear-side vehicles when exiting a parallel parking spot by automatically assisting with braking
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance-Assist (RCCA): Helps detect approaching cross traffic when in reverse. When approaching cross traffic is detected, the system alerts the driver and may apply brakes
Safe Exit Warning (SEW)8: Provides a warning when a vehicle is approaching from the rear-side while someone is exiting the vehicle
Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)9: Provides a warning to the driver to check the rear seat before exiting the vehicle

Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Navigation-Based Curve is available across the Niro lineup, as is FCA with Assist-Junction w/ Cyclist & Junction Turning. Optional for the first time on Niro EV is Highway Driving Assist II10, which integrates the functionality of Lane Change Assist, FCA with Lane Change, and Smart Cruise Control with Machine Learning.

Kia Connect advanced in-vehicle connectivity, which is accessible in-car or through the Kia Access App, is standard on Niro EX and above11. Additionally, the driver can unlock the 2023 Niro’s doors through new Digital Key 2.0, which facilitates opening and starting the Niro using an Apple iPhone, Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy smartphones. And sharing Digital Key 2.0 is as simple as sending a text. Over-The-Air (OTA) updates ensure that maps and the infotainment system are updated automatically. Stolen Vehicle Recovery and Immobilization offers peace of mind for owners, with the capability to assist law enforcement agencies to recover a stolen vehicle. Smart Speaker Integration lets customers use Amazon-Alexa or Google-Assistant enabled smart speakers or devices to remotely control certain vehicle functions, such as remote start. Additional functionality, including 911 Connect and Roadside Assistance, are also part of the Kia Connect feature set.

Three Flavors, All Sustainable

The all-new Kia Niro will arrive in the U.S. in three distinct powertrain configurations: the Niro HEV hybrid, the Niro PHEV plug-in hybrid, and the all-electric Niro EV. All Niro models are front-wheel-drive, which provides advantages in adverse weather. A 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard in HEV and PHEV.

The Niro HEV features a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with a 32kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor, for a combined maximum power output of 139 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. Improved cooling, friction and combustion technologies ensure maximum fuel efficiency, and Niro HEV returns a targeted 53 mpg combined and an estimated driving range of 588 miles.

The Niro PHEV pairs the 1.6-liter engine with a 62kW electric motor, for a total system output of 180 hp and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. When it is connected to a Level 2 charger, the Niro PHEV can refill its 11.1-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery in under three hours. Fully charged, the all-electric range (AER) of the Niro PHEV is estimated at 33 miles12 when fitted with 16-inch wheels: an improvement of 25 percent over the model it replaces.

The all-electric Niro EV is powered by a 64.8 kWh battery and a 150kW (201-horsepower) motor with DC fast-charging capability as standard. Plugged in to a Level 3 fast charger, the Niro EV can replenish 10 to 80 percent in under 45 minutes, at a maximum charging capability of 85 kW. The 11kW onboard charger also helps recharge the Niro EV in under seven hours on a Level 2 charger. Targeted AER for the Niro EV is 253 miles. An optional heat pump and battery warmer help preserve range in cold temperatures.

In addition to Sport and Eco drive modes, the all-new Kia Niro introduces Green Zone Drive Mode, which automatically transfers Niro HEV and Niro PHEV into EV drive mode in residential areas, and nearby schools and hospitals. The Niro automatically uses electric power based on navigation cues and driving history data, and recognizes favorite places, such as home and office set in the navigation system.

Intelligent regenerative braking enables a variety of regeneration levels to easily slow the car and recuperate kinetic energy to maximize driving range. The system can calculate the amount of regeneration required using radar and road gradient information, and it can allow all Niro models to harvest the maximum amount of energy from its brakes while bringing the vehicle to a gentle halt.

April 14, 2022

2022 Kia Niro to accelerate EV transition

2022 Kia Niro - Front Angle

Kia’s popular Niro crossover has been entirely redesigned from the ground up to meet the complex and diverse needs of today’s environmentally-conscious car users. Three state-of-the-art electrified powertrains, sustainable interior materials and exceptional safety performance combine to ensure the all-new version surpasses customer expectations. The redesigned Niro is an intrinsic model in Kia’s growing eco-friendly line-up, which will include 14 BEV models by 2027.

The C-CUV segment is one of the most competitive, with a dizzying array of comparable models on offer. The all-new Niro illustrates Kia’s fresh approach to the traditional CUV and provides key differentiators to make it stand out in a crowded segment. A perfect blend of form and function ensures that the new Niro provides a safe, family-friendly vehicle with favourable economic and environmental credentials that will encourage many people to take a meaningful first step into electrification.

The all-new Niro smooths the transition to sustainable mobility via a choice of low- and zero-emission powertrains: hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery electric (BEV). The HEV and PHEV models feature Kia’s super-efficient Smartstream 1.6-litre GDI gasoline engine. The battery electric Niro provides environmental and practical benefits with a 463km* (WLTP) electric-only range.

Jason Jeong, President of Kia Europe, said, “Kia has redesigned Niro to provide people with a clearer path to clean mobility. The range of eco-friendly powertrains will encourage even the most hesitant customers to make the switch to more sustainable forms of movement.

“The already popular Niro benefits from Kia’s latest tech advancements and can meet the mobility needs of all drivers, attracting new people to the brand. The current Niro family is Kia’s third best-seller, and the new version will further extend Niro’s position as a volume model within the Kia portfolio and help accelerate Kia’s global sales of eco-friendly vehicles to two million units in 2030.”

At 4,420mm long, 1,825mm wide, and up to 1,570 high, the clean-sheet redesign of new Niro is formulated on Kia’s third-generation ‘K’ platform. The 2,720mm wheelbase and enhanced design proportions inside the cabin reward occupants with class-leading interior space and storage capacity.

Premium-effect recycled materials adorn the cabin, to augment the interior space and underline Niro’s sustainable credentials. The dash and driver controls feature minimal clutter and smooth lines to ensure a distraction-free yet intuitive user experience. A head-up display (HUD) system enhances safety and convenience on the move, while a suite of new safety systems brings the latest advancements in protection to this family-friendly crossover.

The second-generation Niro benefits from a full complement of Kia’s DriveWise intelligence Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) which operate to avoid potential hazards on the road and bring peace of mind to all. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) warns and stops the vehicle of possible incidents with other road users or pedestrians, while Junction Turning and Junction Crossing functions provide an added layer of safety when negotiating turns and even stops the vehicle when there is crossing traffic from left or right. These are two of many safety systems included in Kia’s DriveWise technology that combine to improve confidence and convenience behind the wheel.

Each and every enhancement on all-new Niro has been curated for maximum customer benefit. “Niro currently occupies an important position in the Kia line-up, providing an accessible electrified model at volume. It is a crucial model for Kia, and therefore it was a natural progression that, following our re-brand, Niro also received a re-brand of its own. The all-new Niro will offer existing customers the Kia heritage they value while also broadening the brand’s appeal to new environmentally-conscious buyers,” concluded Jason Jeong.

Sustainability made simple

With all-new Niro, Kia has simplified the customer decision-making process, providing three distinct powertrain options designed to meet the demands of every customer’s lifestyle. At the core of this strategy lies a trio of eco-friendly powertrains.

The PHEV and HEV models benefit from Kia’s exceptional Smartstream 1.6 GDI gasoline engine paired with Kia’s second-generation six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (6DCT). The innovations on the second-generation GDI engine include low-friction ball bearings, gears optimised for transmission efficiency, and the removal of the reverse gear that saves 2.3kg alone. Reverse motion is instead drawn solely from the electric motor, helping to eliminate tailpipe emissions during reverse manoeuvres.

The four-cylinder unit produces a combined maximum power output of 141PS when combined with the HEV’s 32kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. A 62kW e-motor in the PHEV version results in combined maximum power of 183PS and provides an electric-only range covering up to 65km (WLTP combined, with 16-inch wheels) of zero-emission journeys, adequate for most daily commutes.

The Niro PHEV debuts Hyundai Motor Group’s very first 5.5kWh high-volt Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater for Plug-in Hybrid models, extending the electric driving range in colder conditions. The self-regulated ceramic elements provide cabin heating to complement the vehicle’s heating core and ensure a continuous flow of warm air.

An intelligent Green Zone Drive Mode on Niro HEV and PHEV automates the use of electric power by taking location guidance from the navigation system, driving pattern learning or manual driver input. Built-up areas or roads nearby schools and hospitals are designated as Green Zones, and the vehicle automatically switches to electric-only driving to reduce the exhaust emissions to zero in these environments. The customer can also take control of Green Zones along the route by setting other areas in which they wish to reduce their vehicle’s emissions, such as around their neighbourhood.

The BEV version of all-new Niro combines its outstanding 463km* (WLTP) range with energetic and lively performance, producing 150kW of available power between 6,000-14,600rpm and instant torque rated at 255 Nm (26.0 kgf.m). With a top speed of 167km/h and 0-100km/h taking just 7.8 seconds, the Niro EV will enable drivers to make effortless and smooth progress in all conditions. Furthermore, Niro EV’s low drag coefficient of 0.29 ensures minimum aerodynamic resistance and maximum energy efficiency.

Topping up the Niro EV’s 64.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery from 10-80 per cent takes just 43 minutes with a suitable DC rapid charger. When temperatures are low, the system in Niro EV uses navigation-based battery conditioning to pre-heat the battery when a charge point is selected as a destination, which helps shorten charge times and secure battery performance. The all-new Niro comes with a standard CCS charging port for added convenience.

For HEV and PHEV versions, maximum braked towing capacity remains at a capable 1,300kg. The next generation Niro EV gains a respectable towing capacity of 750kg opening up the possibilities for zero-emission adventures.

Expressive and confident road presence

New Niro’s redesign was guided by Kia’s Opposites United design ethos, specifically focussing on the ‘Joy for Reason’ design pillar that fuses the emotional with the rational to create vehicles that inspire movement. With a purposeful and head-turning exterior, new Niro brings much needed aesthetic appeal to the CUV segment.

At the front, all-new Niro showcases the latest evolution of Kia’s signature Tiger Face, which has enlarged to now extend from the hood down to the front fender. The expansive windshield features a unique double-cowl design where the top and bottom cowl covers mirror each other for a sense of design union. Angular ‘Heartbeat’ daytime running lights (DRLs) add to the contemporary look, while a bold skid plate and cladding enhance the vehicle’s rugged character.

The EV version is distinguished from the PHEV and HEV models by a two-tone closed grille and unique steel grey side cladding. The Niro EV has also received a dedicated lower grille and bumper treatment in addition to model-specific 17-inch alloys. The plug-in charging port for the EV model is conveniently positioned in the centre of the front grille for easy access at all charge points.

When viewing the side profile of all-new Niro, the eye is guided by simple character lines to focus on the bold Aero C-Pillar toward the rear. This has been carefully crafted to aid airflow underneath the cavity for improved aerodynamic performance and allows new Niro to achieve an impressive draft coefficient (Cd) of 0.29. The efficient design of the 16- or 18-inch alloys on HEV and PHEV versions deliver further aerodynamic benefits.

Moving along the side profile and past the C-Pillar, boomerang-shaped LED taillights intensify the vehicle’s sporty stance and sense of purpose. These sit alongside an uncomplicated licence plate pocket which houses the plate and Kia logo, while the heartbeat-shaped rear reflectors, rugged skid plate and strong diffuser echo design elements from the all-new Niro’s front-end.

Customers can choose from nine modern exterior colours; Cityscape Green, Clear White, Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, Mineral Blue, Interstellar Gray, Orange Delight, Runway Red and Steel Gray. Further personalisation options include the choice of different C-Pillar colours that contrast or complement the body colour and up to three different finishes for the cladding depending on the trim level chosen.

Technologically advanced driver-centric cabin

Every aspect of all-new Niro’s interior has been carefully planned to ensure an aesthetically pleasing, calm and functional environment for all users.

Thanks to the C-segment K platform, the interior of the latest Niro has improved design proportions over the incumbent model. Increased overall interior space and ergonomic improvements provide exceptional space for occupants in the front, including a new passenger ‘relaxion’ seat. When the vehicle is stationary, Niro’s front passenger can enjoy a rest at the simple touch of a button. The seat will lift and recline to maximise comfort and provide optimal postural support while resting.

The slim front seat design frees up additional rear space to give more room for passengers seated in the rear, while seat-mounted fast USB-C points provide charging convenience. No longer is a vehicle seen as a temporary vessel for movement; with the new Niro, it is a functional extension of living space.

The driver is enveloped by the off-centre dash, which curves around the comfortable seating position to present necessary controls within easy reach. Two seamless 10.25-inch display screens show vehicle and navigation information, while a multi-mode touch display allows control of infotainment and heating while minimising driver distractions.

A 10-inch head-up display (HUD) system projects vital driving information, including speed, ADAS data and navigation commands, directly onto the front windshield. The ultra-clear graphics are displayed directly ahead of the driver, helping to minimise eye movement while driving, enhancing safety and convenience.

An advanced Voice Car Control system featuring Natural Voice Recognition technology allows occupants to control key vehicle systems such as temperature and audio settings. A new Multi-Command feature means passengers can also control multiple functions with one command. Additional convenience is provided by a power tailgate that opens automatically on detecting the user’s smart key.

Via Kia Connect, drivers of the Niro EV can view and control vehicle charge status in addition to planning a route using online navigation, syncing calendars, and accessing on-board features such as charge station proximity, live weather, and real-time traffic alerts.

Other convenience features added to the new Niro include Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) and vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality. RSPA allows the driver to exit the vehicle before parking and complete the parking manoeuvre at the touch of a button. In tight parking positions, the vehicle can park itself autonomously by moving in straight lines back and forth using surround-view cameras and ultrasonic sensors. V2L, already proving a beneficial user feature on Kia’s EV6, means that any unused battery charge can be used to power external electrical appliances thanks to the bi-directional ability of the EV power pack.

Echoing the choice of eco-friendly powertrains, the environmental considerations continue inside the cabin. The headlining is made from recycled wallpaper, door panels are finished with VOC free paint and the PU vegan leather seat coverings contain Tencel from Eucalyptus trees, and the cargo screen is knitted material made of 75 per cent recycled fibres. These sustainable elements produce an environmentally considerate interior full of natural and tactile finishes.

Establishing its prominent position in the CUV segment, new Niro offers generous passenger space and provides a larger cargo capacity than key rivals. With 475 litres of trunk space and an additional 20 litres in the frunk, new Niro EV comes with 495 litres of storage space in total. HEV and PHEV models come with 451 and 348 litres, respectively, each of which can be further maximised by fully reclining the flat-fold rear seats. With the rear seats folded, cargo space increased to 1,445 litres on the HEV, 1,342 litres on PHEV and 1,392 litres for the EV.

Comfortable and responsive drive

Developed from the ground up, the new Niro has been built around the accommodating third-generation K platform to cater for each of the three powertrains. This latest architecture applies a multi-load pass structure for optimal front crash performance, facilitates improvements in the basic suspension and steering, and enhances design proportions and interior space.

The K architecture allows for various battery mounting options depending on the powertrain; rear-seat underfloor mounting for HEV and PHEV and central underfloor mounting for the BEV version. Each configuration ensures an ideal weight distribution to optimise ride quality, particularly in the BEV model where the underfloor arrangement leads to a lower centre of gravity and enables superior performance.

The all-new Niro has received suspension and steering improvements to deliver an enjoyable and responsive drive. At the front, the new Niro benefits from a MacPherson strut-type suspension, while the rear gets a four-link type set-up. Both, front and rear geometry together with an optimised steering gear ratio have been tuned for improved responsiveness, stability and ride comfort. A new tilt-type strut bearing reduces the friction in the strut and enables a smoother start of damper motion. It also reduces the friction in the steering system that together with an individual steering software tuning provides a very natural steering feel with excellent feedback.

Additional insulation and padding have been inserted around the vehicle’s structure to help combat unwanted engine and road noise – especially important when running the near-silent BEV version.

Other engineering advancements include a slight increase in torsional rigidity, delivering improvements in ride, handling, and steering behaviour. A significant increase of 22 per cent in the proportion of high-tensile strength hot-stamping steel serves to improve efficiency and safety. Additionally, while the body in white weight was reduced by 6 per cent or 20.3kg, the torsional stiffness was increased by 1 per cent through Structure and Material Optimisation.

Kia’s advanced suite of DriveWise intelligent Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) ensures that all-new Niro delivers Kia’s most technologically advanced protective systems to give the ultimate peace of mind for occupants of the family-friendly crossover.

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) will deliver an audible and visual warning (or even brake) to the driver if the system detects a possible collision with other road users or pedestrians. When navigating junctions, using Niro’s turn signal will activate the Junction Turning function, and in Niro EV a Junction Crossing function also assists the driver. The system will warn if there is a possibility of collision with another vehicle either from oncoming or side traffic. If the system has issued a warning, but the driver takes no action, it will automatically apply the brakes to avert an impact.

Niro’s front view camera and inbuilt navigation system work in conjunction to display the current speed limit. The Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) system will display current speed and issue a visual warning if the vehicle is exceeding the speed limit. Also keeping Niro occupants safe on the roads are other ADAS features, including Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Highway Driving Assist (HDA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control-Curve (NSCC-C), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear View Monitor (RVM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA).

Niro’s ADAS offers a helping hand with parking and exiting the vehicle too. Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) is a feature that enables the vehicle to park itself autonomously by moving in straight lines back and forth using surround-view cameras and ultrasonic sensors. When conducting driver-controlled parking, the Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA-R) and Front/Rear Parking Distance Warning (PDW-F/R) systems help manoeuvre into the tightest of spots. Once parked, Safe Exit Assist (SEA) provides a warning when a vehicle is approaching from the rear-side when getting out of the vehicle, with the electronic child lock preventing rear-seat passengers from opening the rear door.

April 5, 2022

Business Motoring Awards jury names Kia Niro the winner in this year’s event

2021 Kia e-Niro The advanced Kia Niro lineup has managed to take two top spots at the Business Motoring Awards 2021. Popular with customers and businesses, the E-Niro is crowned Best Company Car, while Niro is named Best Hybrid.

The Business Motoring Awards search for the vehicles that best serve the fleet and SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) and evaluate each entry thoroughly by an independent jury of experts.

The Niro lineup is created to provide more solutions to our sustainable future and ensure that the vehicles of tomorrow will not only be of great overall quality but will also be capable of delivering more without harming the environment.

In this year’s edition, the Best Company Car category was dominated by the e-Niro model that comes with a choice of two battery variants – 64 and 39kWh, and up to 282 miles on a single charge. Also, the jury was impressed with model’s extended list of standard features and the overall high build quality.

With the combination of tax benefits and long-range, the e-Niro is a real game-changer for businesses looking to electrify their fleets. Equipment levels are good and it offers smooth performance, but range really is key for fleet and this car delivers, said Chris Wright, Managing Editor at Business Motoring

April 15, 2021

Kia Niro earns the highest Five Star Rating from IIHS

2017 Kia Niro The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has recognized 2018 Kia Niro with the highest possible Top Safety Pick Plus (TSP+) award. The vehicle has managed to catch the eye with its Forward Collision Warning System and Autonomous Emergency Braking System and the high-intensity discharge headlights. Although being an award for safety and comfort, we should mention that this is a sexy machine with numerous technological advancements – and we are happy to know that along with all the pleasure from driving there is vast number of safety features that would act adequately in tricky situations.

With this award, the total number of recognitions from IIHS of Kia vehicles only for 2018 is nine – it is a big number and as we can see, Kia is still on the chase of making this number even bigger!

The award itself, the TSP+ requires a vehicle to earn “Good” ratings in six crashworthiness tests – these include driver-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, head restrain and more, along with “Good” or “Acceptable” rating in the passenger side small overlap front tests, “Advanced” to “Superior” rating for front crash prevention and “Good” rating in headlight testing. Also, in order to be a fit for the prize, the vehicle must also earn “Good” rates in five crashworthiness tests and earn “Advanced” or “Superior” rates for crash prevention and “Good” rate for headlights tests.

Source: Kia

June 20, 2018

Kia Releases First Official Sketches of Niro HUV

2016 Kia Niro HUV Along with 2017 Forte5, Kia announces details for the sporty and beautiful Niro: a special all-Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) which is expected to extend the boundaries of imagination for the world SUV market.

As we can see from the official pictures, the HUV demonstrates an athletic and muscular stance, high-mounted LED taillights and somehow uncluttered rear end. The sleek and fluent design lines and rear windows contribute to vehicle’s sporty spirit and it looks as at the same time allows greater room for Niro’s wide wheel arches.

The special HUV is based on Kia’s latest eco-car program and it is expected that it will achieve a sub-90g/km CO2 emissions, thanks to its refined and advanced gasoline-electric powertrain system.

The Niro HUV will make its global debut at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show this February and will demonstrate Kia’s confident steps towards delivering not only comfortable and not only fun-to-drive vehicle, but also machines that can reshape the idea of efficiency and power.

2016 Kia Niro HUV

As you might know, Kia Motors Corporation is a maker of high quality vehicles for those who seek challenges and remain young at heart. For almost 70 years the brand has delivered incredible machines, technologies and concepts some of which are still considered as game-changers. And with the never-ending desire to deliver only the best it can, we do expect the Niro to be the next benchmark in automobile industry.

Source: Kia

January 12, 2016

Kia Releases First Teaser Sketches of Niro Hybrid Crossover

Kia Niro Sktech Front View Kia Niro is a vehicle which is probably very familiar to you. We have seen it in 2013, because back then it made its public debut as a concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Now, Kia South Korea has released first couple of sketches to tease the future production variant of the Niro Hybrid Crossover. The company also announced that the vehicle will have its market launch during next year and more importantly, that it is going to be a global model.

SEE ALSO: Kia Niro Concept

It was also confirmed that the car will be driven by a 4-cylinder 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine and an electric motor. Both will be mated to a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. The electric power will be secured by a 1.56 kWh battery. In this configuration, Niro Hybrid is going to produce 105 horsepower (77 kW) and 147 Nm (109 lb-ft) of optimum torque.

Concept vs Production Niro

Kia Niro Sketch Rear View

We have featured the gallery of the concept below, so you can make a comparison between the sketches and the 2013 version. What we can clearly see is that the concept version has three doors with gullwing configuration. Fortunately, Kia has removed the outdated gullwings and added five doors instead. That’s not only more beautiful, but it is also more practical and perfect for a production variant of the car.

Just like the concept, the sketches reveal that the future Niro will have a low profile and sleek proportions, with sporty stance and athletic attitude. Kia also disclosed that the car will be made with aero body panels so that the car can make the most of its efficiency.

We are definitely looking forward to see and hear more about this hybrid concept, and we do expect to get more details very soon. Stay tuned.