Introducing the all-new Niro range. Available in three models — the Niro Hybrid, the Niro Plug-In Hybrid, and the all-electric Niro EV.
Kia has confirmed that the new Niro is slightly larger than its predecessor, measuring 4420mm long, 1825mm wide and 1545mm tall – increases of 65mm, 20mm and 10mm respectively. The new e-Niro will remain separate from the firm’s line of EV-badged bespoke electric cars, using a different platform to the one used in the EV6.
The new Kia Niro comes in three trim levels: ‘2’, ‘3’ and ‘4’. In ‘2’ trim, the new Electric Kia Niro comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, fabric seats, rear parking sensors, cruise control and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist recognition. There’s also a 10.25-inch digital dashboard and an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring.
The ‘3’ trim has some fantastic extras! You get a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and 10.25-inch driver display, heated steering wheel and front seats with vegan leather and adjustable driver lumbar support. Front and rear parking sensors and rear privacy glass are also standard with this spec level.
Upgrade to the premium ‘4’ trim and the options list is even longer. The top-spec Kia Niro adds a head-up display, dual 10.25-inch screens, heated rear seats and cooled front seats. You also get vegan-leather seat trim made from eucalyptus trees, a Harman Kardon stereo, an electric sunroof and extra safety kit including automatic emergency braking while parking. Remote Smart Parking Assist will allow you to maneuver using your key if needed without you being in the vehicle, the car will auto stop if it detects an obstacle.
The electric Kia Niro comes with a 64.8kWh battery and a range of 287 miles. You’ll be able to recharge the battery from 10% to 80% full in as little as 45 minutes using fast public chargers. That’s nine minutes less than with the old Kia e-Niro electric car!
With a 0-60mph in 7.8 seconds thanks to the 204bhp motor, power isn’t a worry here. Unlike the hybrid versions that mount the batteries under the rear seat area, the EV model will have them mounted centrally underfloor.
Kia has utilised the new architecture for the Niro’s design so the EV can benefit from a lower centre of gravity to deliver better performance.
Kia has used several eco-friendly materials in the 2023 Niro, such as recycled wallpaper (for the headlining), Bio PU with Tencel from eucalyptus leaves (for the seats), and BTX-free paint (for the door panels).
The layout of the cabin is similar to the new Kia EV6, with a low-set centre console and an infotainment system that’s angled slightly towards the driver.
One thing that’s clear about the new Kia Niro is just how drastically different it looks compared with the old car. The design makes the car look wider and this is complemented by black bodywork cladding and silver accents on the lower sections of the car, together with a pair of new alloy wheel designs.
Other design touches include a black contrasting rear C-pillar, which features a new boomerang shaped vertical tail light design, similar to those on the Hyundai Bayon.