Although the Kia Niro landed in Spain in 2016 rather timidly, without making too much noise, in this time it has managed to become the second best-selling car of the Korean firm, with more than 38,000 units registered in all these years. .
Now it faces its second generation, and it does so with a striking new design, leaving behind the discreet lines of its predecessor. Technologically, a great evolution is noticeable in the car, as well as in its finishes and in its perception when touching both the seats and the dashboard. And in the mechanical section, it stands out for a significant reduction in consumption, maintaining its hybrid, plug-in hybrid and 100% electric options, with a notable increase in autonomy when driving in “zero emissions” mode.
In the electric hybrid (HEV) and the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) it uses an efficient Kia Smartstream 1.6 GDI gasoline engine. The HEV variant produces a maximum power output of 141bhp when the 1.6 GDI four-cylinder unit is combined with the 32kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. The PHEV version, whose electric motor reaches 62 kW, offers 183 hp of maximum power and provides an electric range of up to 65 km (WLTP combined cycle, with 16-inch wheels), enough for most daily trips.
The intelligent “Green Zones” propulsion mode of the PHEV versions automatically selects electric power in selected areas, based on the location of the navigation system and driving patterns. Built-up areas or roads near schools or hospitals are designated as Green Zones: There the vehicle automatically switches to electric drive to eliminate exhaust emissions. The driver can also intervene the Green Zones mode if he registers certain addresses in which he wishes to eliminate emissions; for example, near your home or his office.
Meanwhile, the Niro EV (Kia e-Niro) provides a range of up to 460 km (WLTP combined cycle). In the Niro EV (e-Niro), recharging the 64.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery from 10% to 80% requires 43 minutes with a suitable high-power DC charger under normal conditions. optimal. When a DC charging point is selected as a destination, if the temperature is low the Niro EV (e-Niro) system uses navigation-based battery conditioning to preheat the battery. In this way it shortens the loading time and improves the performance of the process.
One of the advantages of the new Niro HEV and PHEV is a maximum braked towing capacity of 1,300 kg. For those who want to combine adventure and zero emissions, the Niro EV offers a braked towing capacity of 750 kg.
modern and elegant
The exterior aesthetic has been based on the design philosophy of the brand “United Opposites”. It is striking as well as elegant, especially thanks to the new possibility of opting for a two-tone paint. You now have up to 18 different color combinations. The front grille, the side design with a daring C-pillar, and a rear part in which boomerang-shaped Led lights are incorporated, which give it a quite dynamic appearance, are new.
Be Niro
The 100% electric version (e-Niro) is distinguished from the PHEV and HEV by a closed two-tone grille and unique steel gray side protection. The e-Niro has also received specific treatment for the lower grille and bumper, as well as specific 17-inch alloy wheels. The electrical outlet is located in the center of the front.
The Niro is based on the third generation of Kia’s ‘K’ platform, uniquely conceived to house different powertrains and noted for its torsional stiffness. Kia engineers have made the most of this structure, tuning the suspension and steering systems to provide a high level of comfort.
Interior of the Kia Niro
With a length of 4,420mm, a width of 1,825mm, a height of 1,570mm and a wheelbase of 2,720mm, the new Niro improves cabin proportions and storage capacity. High-quality recycled materials have been used throughout the vehicle, adding to its sustainability qualities.
-
Engine: hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric, from 141 to 204 hp
-
Consumption: from 4.4 l/100 km (hybrid); 0.8 l/100 km (PHEV) and 16.2 kWh/100 km (electric)
-
Length/width/height (in meters): 4.42/1.83/1.54
-
Trunk: from 451 to 1,445 liters
-
Price: from 24,400 euros
All key controls have been ergonomically placed to be within easy reach of the driver. An off-centre dashboard houses two side-by-side, frameless 10.25-inch (26 cm) screens to control the driving and infotainment systems, while a multi-mode touch panel allows ventilation and heating to be adjusted while minimizing driver distraction. A Head-up Display (HUD) system projects essential driving information, such as speed, ADAS data and navigation directions, directly onto the windshield, increasing safety and comfort.
Available in three trim levels, the prices of this new generation of the Kia Niro start at around 24,400 euros for the conventional hybrid version, from 27,600 for the plug-in hybrid, and from 30,200 for the 100% electric.