Kia shares more details about coming all-new Niro hybrid

Yesterday, January 17, Kia revealed the details of its latest crossover SUV, the all-new Kia Niro. According to the South Korean carmaker, the new Niro is a next-generation state-of-the-art model that further demonstrates the company’s rapid progress in becoming a global sustainable mobility solutions provider.

Furthermore, Kia says that it will become an integral part of the brand’s growing eco-friendly model line-up and will embody its commitment to a sustainable future.

“The all-new Kia Niro heralds the next step in our journey to become a sustainable mobility solutions provider. From the outset, our ambition was to create a car that makes it easier for people to practice a sustainable lifestyle. With its eco-friendly materials, advanced technology, and range of highly efficient electrified powertrains, the all-new Niro truly delivers on its goal,” said Kia Corporation Senior Vice President and Head of Global Brand and Customer Experience Division Artur Martins.

At the heart of all-new Niro’s eco-friendly credentials is a state-of-the-art electrified powertrain. 

The hybrid electric (HEV) model is powered by a highly efficient Smartstream 1.6-liter GDI engine featuring improved cooling, friction, and combustion technologies. The four-cylinder power plant produces 104hp with 144Nm of torque. When combined with the 32kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor, the HEV model produces a combined maximum power output of 139 horses.

The 1.6-liter GDI engine is mated to the second-generation, six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (6DCT), which Kia said, has been carefully engineered and optimized to increase efficiency and reduce weight.

In addition, the Kia Niro comes equipped with Kia’s Green Zone Drive Mode that automatically activates the electric-only drive operation of the car to ensure zero-emissions mobility in certain environments and situations. Owners can also set dedicated green zones into the navigation system to reduce pollution in areas such as near their home or place of work.

Furthermore, Kia’s smart regenerative braking system enables drivers to choose from a series of regeneration levels to easily slow the car and recuperate kinetic energy to maximize driving range.

Kia says that plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery electric (BEV) options will be made available for the new Niro. They will be revealed at a later date, closer to the market launch.

The brand’s push for eco-friendly driving goes beyond the new Niro’s powertrain options. Its interior features elements made with sustainable materials such as headlining made from recycled wallpaper, seats made from Bio PU with Tencel from eucalyptus leaves, and the use of BTX free paint on the door panels.

Combining sustainable mobility with innovation and high-tech user convenience, Kia equipped the all-new Niro with a high-tech 10.25-inch panoramic high-definition digital display screen that integrates both the instrument cluster and infotainment features in one streamlined package.

Within easy reach of the driver is the center console where the Niro’s electronic dial-type shift lever can be found. A variable large-capacity cupholder tray and a wireless smartphone charging pad are also close at hand.

Kia reveals that the dimensions of the all-new Niro have grown over its predecessor. As a result, the all-new Niro awards its occupants with a spacious environment where they can relax, get comfortable, and enjoy every journey.

The large interior space is writ large in how the all-new crossover SUV looks from a distance. Thanks to Kia’s third-generation platform, the new Kia Niro gets a larger body that features a bold and dynamic design. The exterior of the all-new Niro embodies a sophisticated and adventurous sense of purpose that takes strong influence from the 2019 HabaNiro concept car.

At the front is the latest iteration of the brand’s signature Tiger Face flanked by striking “heartbeat” DRLs. A bold skid plate and cladding serve to enhance the vehicle’s rugged character.

Behind are vertical LED taillights that sit alongside uncomplicated surface treatments for a concise and aerodynamic styling combination, while the heartbeat-shaped rear reflector, rugged skid plate, and lower bumper mimic the all-new Niro’s front-end design.

The all-new Kia Niro has been designed from the ground up to meet the complex and varied needs of today’s sustainability conscious consumers. It also features advanced safety and connectivity features making it the perfect ride for those looking for a modern eco-friendly crossover SUV.

Per Kia, the all-new Niro is due for global market launch later this year, more information will be made available soon.

Photos from Kia

Also read: 

All-new Kia Niro makes debut at 2021 Seoul Mobility Show

Kia ends 2021 with 6.5% sales growth

Kia turns over vehicles for 2022 Australian Open use