Model Highlights
At the heart of the Niro is a compact 1.6L 4-cylinder gasoline engine producing 104 horsepower. This engine alone would make the Niro a pretty poor performer, luckily there is an electric motor as well helping to motivate the vehicle. Combined with the electric motor, the Niro produces 139 hp and a very robust 195 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a 6-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. Unlike most other hybrids, which use a continuously variable transmission, the Kia's dual clutch unit helps provide strong acceleration at the cost of slight penalty to fuel economy. The tradeoff is worth it; the Niro doesn't feel anchored to the ground like some other hybrids, while still returning up to 50 mpg in combined city and highway driving in its most basic form.
The Kia Niro comes in five trims, FE, LX, EX, S Touring and Touring. The base FE trim has fewer amenities than its siblings but still comes with all the notable features one would expect in a compact car or SUV these days. Standard features include a 7-inch color touch screen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, steering wheel mounted controls for the sound system and cruise control, a USB input jack, power windows and door locks, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic temperature control, power external mirrors and 16-inch alloy wheels.
The LX trim primarily adds roof rails, LED rear lights, fog lamps, an immobilizer and a push-button start system. The EX trim meanwhile, builds on the LX by offering partial-leather seating surfaces, heated exterior mirrors and heated front seats.
The S Touring rides on 18-inch wheels, a gloss-black grille with metallic insert. Inside, there is cloth and leather seating trim, a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with 2-way power lumbar support, an 8-inch LCD navigation and infotainment system, and a Harman Kardon sound system. The top-of-the-line Touring trim, meanwhile, gets a power sunroof, full leather seating, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats.
Standard safety items on the Niro include anti-lock brakes, stability control a brake assist system, a bevy of airbags and a hill start control system. A rearview camera is also standard across the entire Niro range.
The Niro also comes available with a full electric powertrain. A 356-volt lithium/polymer battery is mated to a 201-horsepower electric motor to push the Niro EV silently ahead. It comes in two trims, both very well equipped. The EX and EX Premium both come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, climate control and all the electronic safety systems. Upgrade to the EX Premium and it gets LED exterior lighting, a premium audio system and heated and ventilated leather seating.
While this powertrain is potent (0-60 times come in 6.5 seconds) its also efficient enough to get a range up to 240 miles.
