KIA has revealed pricing and specs for the all-new second generation of the Kia Niro.
Their hit 'crossover' has been completely redesigned for 2023. It now looks nicer from most angles, with a cleaner rear-end and sporty cladding-enhanced side profile, the latter featuring a pronounced C-pillar design incorporating aerodynamic venting and brake lights which can be further emphasised via an optional two-tone paint treatment.
The new headlight/grille combo is also striking, giving the car a decidedly futuristic 'face' compared to the old 'tiger'-inspired design. This chimes neatly with the high-tech feel of the new EV6-inspired interior and there's also now more space for passengers and increased storage space too, thanks to a bigger boot and the addition of a 'froot'.
Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid variants are based around a 1.6 GDi petrol engine with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission: Hybrids get a 43bhp electric motor and 1.32kWh lithium-ion polymer battery for a combined maximum power output of 139bhp, while Plug-ins get a larger 83bhp electric motor linked to an 11.1kWh battery for a combined maximum power output of 180bhp and electric-only range of 40 miles.
The full EV version – the UK's second-best selling EV in its current form, the e-Niro – is now just badged as the 'Niro EV', thus ruling out the return of Bobby De Niro in the new ad campaign.
The Niro EV comes with a 201bhp electric motor powered by a 64.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, offering 188ft lb of torque, 0-to-62 mph in 7.8 seconds and a 'predicted electric driving range' of 287 miles WLTP combined – a whole five miles more than the current model.
Its maximum charging speed is rated at a maximum of 72kWh, which is slower than the old e-Niro – but tech tweaks mean the Niro EV can charge faster for longer, making a 10-to-80 per cent charge possible in 43 minutes – 11 minutes quicker than the e-Niro.
Each model is available in three trims of ascending luxury/kit, badged 2, 3 and 4. Prices start at £27,745 for the entry level Niro Hybrid 2 which features 16-inch alloys, LED headlights, dual-height boot floor, rear parking sensors and camera, 8-inch touchscreen display with DAB radio and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
Standard driver assistance technologies include Forward Collision Avoidance with car, pedestrian and cyclist recognition and junction crossing and Smart Cruise Control.
Niro Plug-in Hybrid 2 models (from £32,775) get the same equipment, while those going fully electric with an Niro EV 2 get 17-inch wheels and a larger instrument cluster in addition to 11kW on-board charger and a battery heating system.
The Niro Hybrid 3 (from £30,495) and Plug-in Hybrid 3s (from £35,525) get 18-inch alloy wheels with Continental tyres, 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation system, cloth/faux leather upholstery, a 4.2-inch TFT instrument cluster, front parking sensors, keyless smart entry and start and heated seats/steering wheel, a wireless smartphone charger, rear privacy glass, driver lumbar support and adjustable multi-angle rear seats. Extra driver assistance on the 3s include Highway Driving Assist and rear Blind Spot Collision Avoidance.
Niro EV 3s (from £37,745) get all that plus Vehicle-to-Device functionality with a three-pin plug socket as standard and the option of a heat pump.
However, those who demand the very best from life/cars will want the range topping versions – Hybrid 4 (£33,245), Plug-in Hybrid 4 (£38,275) and Niro EV 4 (£40,495) – adding head-up display, twin 10.25-inch touchscreen and instrument cluster display, heated rear seats and ventilated front seats, front passenger premium relaxation seating, power operated tailgate, electric sunroof, Harman Kardon premium sound system, driver's side memory seating and front passenger lumbar support, Remote Smart Parking Assist and Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist.
All models are available in a choice of eight standard colours plus additional premium paint options (£595). Top-spec 4s can also be optioned with a two-tone paint option (£150 standard / £745 premium) which gets you a C-pillar in Steel Grey or Black Pearl, while the Niro EV 4 is also available with an exclusive lighter grey interior, Steel Grey body cladding and White Pearl paint for an extra £745.
Orders are open now for delivery in 'Q3 of 2023'.
