Kia unveils Niro hybrid crossover

The Niro combines the environmental credentials of a petrol-electric hybrid with the practicality and fashionable looks of an SUV. The design is the result of a collaboration between Kia design studios in Korea and California and features the kind of styling the numerous customers in the market of a crossover expect: so there’s all the robust all-terrain SUV-like looks – including features such as roof rails and a rear skid plate – but toned down slightly for the urban driver, along with wide and low proportions, and the signature Kia ‘tiger grille’.

Size-wise, it fits between the Soul and Sportage models in Kia’s range: its 2,700mm wheelbase is longer than that of a Nissan Qashqai or Volkswagen Tiguan, so it should offer plenty of interior space. There’s also the elevated seating position of an SUV, which should also add to its appeal among buyers.

Power comes from a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 103bhp, which, when combined with a 43bhp electric motor, creates a total of 146bhp. The engine is mated to a six-speed, dual-clutch gearbox, which should be more usable than the continuous variable transmission (CVT) ’boxes found in many of its hybrid competitors.

Safety features include Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist, Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking.

In addition, a new Eco-DAS (Driver Assistance System) includes Coasting Guide and Predictive Energy Control features: Coasting Guide aims to maximize fuel economy by coaching the driver on when to coast and brake, while Predictive Energy Control uses the navigation system and cruise control to anticipate changes on the road ahead that involve going up and downhill, managing energy flow and working out when its best to recharge the battery and when its best to use the stored energy to optimize efficiency.

Buyers will also get the latest connectivity – including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – based around an 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The Niro will go on sale in the UK in the summer and, while no prices have yet been announced, it’s thought that Kia is aiming to match – or even undercut – the cost of the new Toyota Prius.

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