Right from its launch (mid-2022 in Europe), the compact SUV is available as a hybrid, plug-in or electric car, with prices starting at €30,690 for the hybrid.
When the second generation of the compact SUV is launched, the five-door model with the distinctive C-pillar, stretched to 4.42 metres, will no longer offer pure combustion engines.
Kia's greatest hopes are pinned on the Niro EV, which currently costs at least €47,590 and already accounted for 75% of sales of its predecessor.
The electric car has a 150 kW electric motor and is powered by a battery of almost 65 kWh. According to Kia, this translates to a range of up to 460 kilometres at a maximum of 167 km/h and a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds.
However, charging only takes 11 kW alternating current or just under 80 kW direct current, so it takes a good 45 minutes to go from 10% to 80%, even at a fast charger.
The part-time electrics both run on a 1.6-litre direct-injection petrol engine. This produces 77 kW/105 hp and is combined with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission with electric reverse gear.
According to Kia, the hybrid combines this with a 32 kW electric motor and a 1.32 kWh battery. With a system output of 104 kW/141 hp, only a few hundred metres on battery power at a maximum speed of 120kph are possible. Still, this allows for standard consumption to fall to 3.4 litres (CO2 emissions: 79 g/km).
Those who order the plug-in hybrid for at least €36,690 get a 62 kW electric motor for 135 kW/183hp system output and a 65 kWh battery. The Niro can travel up to 65 kilometres, hit a maximum of 134kph without the combustion engine and, according to Kia, is listed at 1.3 litres and 29 g/km CO2.
Common to all three variants are new dimensions, which, together with a longer wheelbase, mainly result in more legroom in the rear and more boot space.
There is also a modernised cockpit with the instruments of the larger EV6 and a new infotainment system as well as a few new extras in the price list. Among other things, the Niro can be ordered with special reclining seats and a head-up display.
