Many a debut has been made in New York over the years. Add the 2023 Kia Niro to the list.
It’s “all-new” in Kia-speak, though at this juncture we don’t know if it’s a redesign or a refresh. We’re guessing the former, based on the marketing speak.
The next Niro will debut tomorrow at the 2022 New York International Auto Show. The Niro takes many of the design cues that were first seen on the Habaniro concept. This includes a unique panel on the C-pillar that is meant to improve aerodynamics.
As you no doubt know, the Niro is an electrified little crossover that comes in three versions: hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery-electric. It has been in production since 2016.
Kia, like other OEMs, is on working on the march towards more electrification. The Niro has already been part of that strategy, so it makes sense that the brand is updating it, even if it’s not as sexy as say, the EV6.
Other carryover bits from the concept include the LED headlights and high-mounted taillights. Kia says the cabin will offer plenty of tech and advanced-driving assist features, plus “generous” cargo capacity.
The wraps come off at 10:10 Eastern time.
The Niro will be offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and EV versions, with the hybrid model likely slated to use a 1.6-liter four-cylinder paired with a six-speed, dual-clutch automatic and an electric motor.
The EV version of the Niro is expected to feature a 64.8-kWh battery pack powering a 201-hp motor.
[Images: Kia]
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Will be very curious on this one, as it’s one of the possibilities for the wife’s next car.
I had one as a rental several years ago. A super hot 105F day in west Texas. I stopped clean up and get a sandwich and ate it in the car. I spent about 15 minutes or so eating that sandwich and ran the A/C the whole time to keep cool in the heat and not once did the engine kick on. Electric air conditioning, I thought it was brilliant, run by the battery the whole time. This was the standard hybrid model of course. I drove it a little over 1000 miles (very conservatively) and it returned about 42mpg, typical for a hybrid. The trip computer lies, I calculate mileage by distance and fuel pumped.
I had one as a rental several years ago. A super hot 105F day in west Texas. I stopped clean up and get a sandwich and ate it in the car. I spent about 15 minutes or so eating that sandwich and ran the A/C the whole time to keep cool in the heat and not once did the engine kick on. Electric air conditioning, I thought it was brilliant, run by the battery the whole time. This was the standard hybrid model of course. I drove it a little over 1000 miles (very conservatively) and it returned about 42mpg, typical for a hybrid. The trip computer lies, I calculate mileage by distance and fuel pumped.
I like the current one, just a little underwhelmed with the interior materials and style. It’s a good size for me- more like a plus-sized hatchback than a CUV. Will plan to check it out in 2 years or so.
My test drive of a an 18 Niro Hybrid was most pleasant. These things get great fuel economy, too, and they are roomy inside.
Not sure I like the styling of this gen as much, but it still beats the Prius.
I test drove one in 2018 also and aside from the slightly lower than I’d like rear roof (6’1″ me could still fit fine) it was a really nice drive. I’m very interested in this as well, even though I’m in line for an EV6. With a year to wait for delivery, I have time to consider my options.
This design already looks a bit of a mess. Most of the issue is the C-pillar which is sectioned off oddly. Whether it’s a different color or not, it shouldn’t have that trim above the wheel that way.
The photo of the white car is deceptive I think. The c-pilar is silver but catching the sun just right to appear white. I don’t think it’s that bad, honestly, but at least it’s a statement.
That C-pillar is, indeed, a different color, but the Korean market materials suggest that body-color will be an option. Which will be the extra cost, I don’t know, but one sense that the off-color option will be one of those early-model-year experiments they drop due to lack of popularity.
Otherwise, I’m coming to terms with the slightly funky DRLs up front.
Is that the 2023 version of the Starsky and Hutch car ‘striping’?
I do like the current Niro. Have contemplated it as our next vehicle. However it is somewhat pricey. And I am not sure if the fuel savings would offset the initial cost.
@Arthur–Just picked up my hybrid Maverick last Saturday and I now have 109 miles on the odometer. Just filled up yesterday at Costco with 1.8 gallons of regular unleaded with at the time 101 miles on the odometer. Quiet and smooth handles like a dream. I am glad to see Kia and others with hybrids and EVs.
@Jeff: Congratulations! Am looking forward to a review and periodic updates, as I am sure are many others here.
@Arthur–Thanks I will keep you posted but so far it was worth the wait. Fits my needs for a pickup perfectly.
Finally some KN truth.
https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/u1xvoa/comment/i4flpgq/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
That rear panel…WOOF
Shades of the Optima are with that awkward rain gutter across the roof!