The hybrid compact crossover sport utility vehicle from Kia isn’t just one of the greenest models in its segment. In fact, it also happens to be reasonably priced for what you get in return for your hard-earned cash.
U.S. pricing for the Niro has yet to be announced. Be that as it may, the United Kingdom and the rest of Europe now have a suggested retail price for the Niro. Starting from £21,295, the 2017 Kia Niro is just £200 cheaper than the Optima and £4,200 less expensive than the Soul EV.
In Germany, the hybrid CUV is priced from €24,990. To put that sticker into perspective, the lesser model in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class lineup is €23,746 in its domestic market. More than that, the 2017 Kia Niro is a lot cheaper than the Toyota Prius. The question is, is the Niro any good?
I’ve yet to take it for a test drive, but the on-paper stats sound promising. For starters, the powertrain at the heart of the Kia Niro is borrowed from the Hyundai Ioniq. Hence, the Niro will add a plug-in hybrid model in the near future. The 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine and the electric motor churn out a combined 141 PS (139 horsepower) and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque. Another reason why the Niro isn’t your average hybrid car is the transmission.
Instead of the more commonly favored CVT, the 2017 Kia Niro boasts a six-speed double-clutch automatic transmission. On the New European Driving Cycle, the combined fuel economy for the hybrid CUV stands at 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers or 74.3 imperial miles per gallon. Depending on the market, the Niro will come in either three or four trim levels. Fret not, though, because even the lesser one is comprehensively equipped.
"The Kia Niro will offer buyers a compelling blend of crossover practicality with the cool, modern styling for which Kia is famous, and an efficient new hybrid powertrain to keep running costs down," declared Michael Cole, the chief operating officer at Kia Motors Europe. The first units of the 2017 Kia Niro will arrive at European dealerships this September.
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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