2023 KIA Niro Powered by EV, Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid
2023 KIA Niro – Completely redesigned inside and out, the new Niro boasts a bold exterior with striking “heartbeat” daytime running LED lights inspired by HabaNiro’s study, a changing “tiger face” that now extends from the hood through a sturdy fender and a wide rear pillar. Fused with a boomerang-shaped taillight.
The second-generation Kia Niro marks a significant change from its predecessor from a design standpoint, as designers use a bolder approach inspired by the 2019 HabaNiro concept.
2023 KIA Niro
The latest Sportage hints are too, especially on solid shoulders, upright windows, and interiors.
Painted in a different color than the rest of the body, pillar C is not just for show; Kia says they improve airflow to improve aerodynamics.
2023 KIA Niro Concept Design
The unique part of Niro’s new design is on the back. If you’re like me, the first thing that might catch your eye is the contrast strip between the taillights and the C-pillars.
Kia says its design blends simple surface treatments with dynamic parts to emphasize modernity and provide another appeal to consumers.
The C pillar strip is taken from the HabaNiro concept. Fortunately, it softened from the beginning of the idea.
In addition to the small rear lights that blend with the back and bottom bumper that look like they were lifted from another car and placed upside down, the rear is relatively simple.
2023 KIA Niro Engine
The new model continues to offer hybrid (Niro HEV), plug-in hybrid (Niro PHEV), and battery-electric (Niro EV) options.
Powertrain specifications have yet to be announced but expect the new Niro EV to be better than the outgoing 201 hp and EPA-rated 239-mile range models.
The vehicle may also feature an 800-volt electrical system and two-way charging, such as the 2022 EV6.
For the Niro PHEV, there is a feature that automatically switches the vehicle to electric mode, depending on the car’s location.
The Feature will use navigation data or driving history to select an electric method when entering a city or residential area or near schools and hospitals. It also recognizes frequently visited areas, such as your home or office, as power zones.
Despite the arrival of new specialized EVs such as the EV6 (EV9 is also coming), Kia will continue to roll out electric versions of vehicles that support internal combustion engines, such as the new Niro EV.
Kia plans to have 11 EVs in its lineup by the end of 2026, of which only seven will be dedicated to EVs.
2023 KIA Niro Interior
The interior has also been completely redesigned and looks much more luxurious with a dashboard layout similar to the new Sportage.
We’re already familiar with Kia’s side-by-side screens, infotainment accompanied by separate controls for climate settings and other functions.
This is our preferred setting by having quick access to certain facilities without having to navigate the menu.
The clunky gear levers of the Niro have previously been replaced by sleeker rotary knobs that free up more space around the bottom of the center console.
Additional physical buttons flank the new shifter for heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheels, auto-hold functions, and parking assistance systems.
The cabin also features new recycled materials such as recycled wallpaper for headliners, Bio PU with Tencel from eucalyptus leaves for upholstery, and BTX-free paint (benzene, toluene, and xylene) on the door panels.
They also feature a high-tech lightweight chair mechanism to improve the seats’ space, comfort, and style. The front headrest has slim dimensions and features a coat hanger on the back cover.
Kia says the headliner is made of recycled wallpaper, while the seats consist of Bio PU with Tencel from eucalyptus leaves.
Also made with sustainability in mind, the door panels are painted with BTX, a type of water-based paint without benzene, toluene, and xylene isomers.
2023 KIA Niro Release Date and Price
There’s no word yet on the exact Price, release date, and specs for the U.S. Niro, but Kia says the Niro will be available in HEV, PHEV, and EV powertrains next year.
2022 KIA Niro Gives Modern Hybrid Technology
As Kia’s smallest SUV, the 2022 Niro provides practicality and value in tiny packaging. But the Niro is unique in its segment due to its hybrid powertrain; Rivals such as the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona do not offer such options.
The entry-level powertrain is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder coupled with an electric motor to produce 139 horsepower.
A plug-in hybrid version is also provided and can go up to 26 miles on electric power before using a gasoline engine.
The Niro isn’t as fun to drive as some of its competitors, but there are few better options for buyers looking for an SUV with impressive fuel efficiency than the Niro hybrid.
Kia also offers the Niro EV, which we reviewed separately if you’re interested in using electricity.
What’s new for 2022?
Kia Niro has adopted a new logo on the nose, tail, wheel, and steering wheel hub for 2022. Otherwise, the brand’s smallest SUV hasn’t changed to a new year’s model.
2022 KIA Niro Engine
The 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and electric motor work with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission in the regular Niro.
The system generates a total of 139 horsepower and motivates the Niro to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds, putting him on the hunt for most competitions.
The plug-in-hybrid version uses the same basic powertrain as the standard model, albeit with a larger battery to increase EV range.
That battery adds up to 26 miles of EV operation, according to the EPA. Niro easily overcomes uneven roads, resulting in controlled and stable driving. The steering response in Niro is fast and accurate.
2022 KIA Niro Interior
The basic LX has a fuss-free interior that is heavy on plastic and fabric. Leather designations enter a mix ranging from mid-level Touring trim, but even the most luxurious Niro has synthetic coatings.
Also standard across the range is two-zone automatic climate control, with controls for front-seat drivers and passengers.
There is even a button to turn off passenger climate controls if the seat is empty, saving energy in the summer months when hybrids have traditionally lost efficiency due to increased load from air conditioning.
The Niro was designed from the start to be a hybrid, not converted from existing gasoline-powered vehicles. As a result, the cargo space is not reduced with the battery pack.
Unfortunately, the rear seats don’t form a flat load floor when folded, and other similar-sized crossovers can hold more cargo.
2022 KIA NIRO Price
The 2022 Kia Niro Hybrid has a starting price of $24,690. That’s much less than other models in the hybrid and electric SUV class.
The price rises to $29,590 for the entry-level Niro Plug-In Hybrid. The Niro EV’s base model starts at $39,990, which is less than a bargain.
2022 Kia Niro EX Premium Hybrid Crossover
