Kia’s Niro offers consumers high-tech convenience and top-of-the-range safety, and is available in hybrid, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery electric (BEV) versions.
We tested the hybrid GT-Line, which features a 1.6-litre petrol four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor featuring a 1.32 kWh battery.
When combined with the 32kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor, the HEV model produces maximum power of 104kW and 265Nm of torque. The engine drives the front wheels through a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
During our test drive around Auckland city and on the motorway, we found the car handled well with good performance and acceleration. It rode smoothly with compliant suspension and a quiet interior. Kia quotes overall fuel consumption of 4.4 litres per 100km.
Improved comfort
A new suspension and steering system improves ride comfort. Kia has tuned the Niro’s front and rear suspension for improved responsiveness, stability, and ride comfort.
And a revised steering gear ratio and new tilt-type strut bearings reduce friction to improve steering feel.
Additional insulation and padding have been inserted in the vehicle’s structure to help combat unwanted engine and road noise, and the improvement was noticeable.
Priced at $57,990, the hybrid GT-Line model is top of the range for the hybrid variants which also feature the Light, Earth, and Water options.
In the plug-in hybrid line-up – also in Light, Earth, Water, and GT-Line variants – each model is eligible for a $4025 rebate.
The two BEV models are sold in Light and Water grades and are priced at $67,990 and $73,990, respectively.
They earn the maximum $7015 rebate.
Top safety
As standard, the Light variant comes with a comprehensive active and passive safety suite, including rear parking sensors, safe exist assist warning, lane keep assist, AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, radar cruise control.
It comes with a five-star ANCAP safety rating.
The Earth models add foglights, gloss black highlights on the wing mirrors and grille, faux leather cabin appointments, air vents for rear passengers and rain-sensing wipers.
The Water models feature a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen paired to a 10.25-inch digital cluster, satnav, head-up display, power-operated tailgate, power-adjustable driver’s seat, Harman Kardon audio, heated front seats, wireless phone charging, 18-inch wheels, and push-button start on HEV and PHEV variants.
Finally, the GT-Line models add a dial gear selector, a power sunroof, faux leather, ventilated and heated front seats, heated steering wheel, sports pedals, electronically adjustable front seats on both sides.
We were impressed by the Niro’s safety features, which stand out as some of the best in its class.
One feature that stood out was the intelligent speed limit assist (ISLA) which uses information from the front view camera and navigation system to deliver a warning and automatically adjust the speed if it’s over the posted speed limit.
It helped us stay aware of our surroundings and made it easier to observe speed limits around town.
Overall, the Niro’s advanced technology and driver assist features were beneficial and assisted with driver comfort.
Expressive styling
In terms of styling, the second-generation Niro offers a choice of nine expressive exterior colours. The model we drove looked smart in Cityscape Green with black C-pillars.
Customers can also choose among Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, Mineral Blue, Interstella Gray, Orange Delight, Runway Red, and Steel Gray.
For the first time, the Niro provides added scope for personalisation with a choice of six contrasting colours for the C-pillars, and up to three different finishes for the cladding, enabling customers to design their car around their personality.
The interior has a modern design that feels clean and uncluttered. Located below the centre screen is an integrated infotainment and climate control system that can be accessed easily from the driver or front passenger seat.
Also within easy reach is the centre console that incorporates a modern look with a high-gloss black surface finish. Here, we could operate the Niro’s electronic dial-type shift lever. A large-capacity cupholder tray and a wireless smartphone charging pad were also close to hand.
The Niro’s dimensions have also grown over its predecessor, with a length measuring 4420mm, a width of 1825mm, a height of 1545mm, and a wheelbase of 2720mm – up by 65mm, 20mm, 10mm and 20mm respectively.
As a result, the all-new Niro provides a spacious environment that adds comfort and versatility as both a family car or as part of a company fleet.
The front seats incorporate convenient rear-mounted coat hangers, C-Type USB terminals and storage pockets.
Kia says by repositioning the Niro’s 12V battery out of the wheelhouse] and integrating it alongside the high-voltage battery at the bottom of the rear seats, boot capacity for the HEV model reaches 451 litres (VDA), up 15 litres over its predecessor.
The Kia Niro offers a compelling blend of technology and convenience. It makes for strong competition alongside other hybrid and electric SUV contenders.
