2023 Kia Niro [EU]

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 a key model in Kia's growing eco-friendly line-up, which will include 14 BEV models by 2027. The compact crossover utility vehicle (C-CUV) segment is one of the most competitive, with a dizzying array of models on offer.

The all-new Niro illustrates Kia's fresh approach to the traditional crossover vehicle and provides important differentiators that make it stand out in a crowded segment. A perfect blend of form and function, the all-new Niro is 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 Kia 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 petrol engine. The battery electric Niro EV provides environmental and practical benefits with a 285-mile (WLTP) range. At 4,420mm long, 1,825mm wide without door mirrors, and up to 1,570 high, the clean-sheet redesign of all-new Niro is based upon Kia's third-generation 'K' platform. The 2,720mm wheelbase and enhanced design proportions inside the cabin reward occupants with outstanding space and storage capacity. Premium-effect recycled materials adorn the cabin, enriching the ambience and underlining Niro's sustainable credentials. Minimal clutter and smooth lines 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.

For the 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 Smartstream 1.6 GDi petrol engine paired with Kia's own second-generation six-speed dual-clutch 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 on its own. Reverse motion is instead delivered by the electric motor, helping to eliminate tailpipe emissions during reverse manoeuvres.

The four-cylinder 104bhp 1.6-litre GDi petrol unit produces a combined maximum power output of 139bhp when paired with the HEV's 32kW (43bhp) permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. A 62kW (83bhp) e-motor in the PHEV version results in combined maximum power of 180bhp and provides an electric-only range of up to 40 miles (WLTP combined, with 16-inch wheels), sufficient for the needs of most UK drivers and their daily commute. The Niro PHEV debuts Hyundai Motor Group's very first 5.5kWh high-volt Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater for '3' and '4' grade Plug-in Hybrid models, enhancing electric-only performance 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, learning driving patterns, or can be personalised with manual inputs from the driver. Built-up areas or roads nearby schools and hospitals can be designated as Green Zones where the vehicle automatically switches to electric-only driving to reduce exhaust emissions.

The customer can also take control of Green Zones by setting 'custom' areas in which they wish to reduce their vehicle's emissions, such as around their own neighbourhood. The all-new Kia Niro EV combines its 285-mile (WLTP) range with energetic and lively performance, producing 150kW (201bhp) between 6,000 to 9,000rpm and instant torque rated at 255Nm (188lb ft). With a top speed of 103mph and 0-62mph taking just 7.8 seconds, the Niro EV will enable drivers to make effortless and smooth progress in all conditions. Furthermore, the Niro EV's low drag co-efficient of 0.29 reduces aerodynamic resistance and maximum energy efficiency. Topping up the Niro EV's 64.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery from 10 to 80 per cent takes just 43 minutes with a 350kW DC rapid charger (e.g. high-speed chargers on the IONITY network) under optimum conditions, and 45 minutes when connected to a 100kW DC rapid charger. When temperatures are low, the system in the Niro EV uses navigation-based battery conditioning to pre-heat the battery when a fast-charging point is selected as the destination ('3' and '4' grades only), which helps shorten charge times and optimises battery performance. The all-new Niro comes with a standard CCS charging port for added convenience.