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July 11, 2022 – The all-new Kia Niro has been designed from the ground up to meet the needs and expectations of today’s environmentally conscious car driver. Available with three efficient electrified powertrains, a spacious interior distinguished by its versatility and sustainable materials, and technology designed to make driving more intuitive, the all-new Niro is a no-compromise solution for those looking for a stylish and practical eco-friendly compact crossover utility vehicle (C-CUV).
Kia Niro HEV / Kia Niro PHEV
By intelligently combining form and function, Kia has delivered a safe, family-friendly crossover that will encourage more people to take a meaningful step into electrified mobility. The hybrid electric (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models feature Kia’s super-efficient Smartstream 1.6-litre GDI gasoline engine, while the Niro EV provides a 460km (WLTP, combined) electric driving range.
The Niro uses Kia’s third-generation ‘K’ platform, conceived from the outset to support a mix of electrified powertrains and provide high levels of torsional rigidity. Kia’s engineers have made the most of these advanced underpinnings, tuning the suspension and steering systems to deliver high levels of comfort as well as a responsive, confidence-inspiring driving experience.
At 4,420mm long, 1,825mm wide, up to 1,570 high, and with a wheelbase of 2,720mm, the clean-sheet redesign of the all-new Niro delivers enhanced cabin proportions and storage capacity. Premium-feel recycled materials are used throughout, maximising the all-new Niro’s sustainable credentials.
Sjoerd Knipping, VP Marketing and Product at Kia Europe, said: “The current Niro family is Kia’s third best-seller in Europe. From launch to date, Kia has sold 350,000 Niro models (54% HEV, 15% PHEV and 31% EV), demonstrating that it was the right product at the right time to accelerate the mass uptake of electrified vehicles. Starting from a clean-sheet, the all-new Niro reflects the evolving mobility needs of our customers. We have ensured this new generation can continue to lead the electrified compact crossover class in what is an increasingly competitive segment. We hope to sell approximately 90,000 units in 2023.”
The all-new Kia Niro is available to order now, with European deliveries scheduled to start in Q3 2022.
Three high-tech electrified powertrains
With the all-new Niro, Kia has once again simplified the customer decision-making process, providing three distinct powertrain options designed to meet the demands of every lifestyle.
The PHEV and HEV models benefit from Kia’s Smartstream 1.6 GDI gasoline engine with low-friction ball bearings, both paired as standard with the brand’s second-generation six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (6DCT with gears optimised for transmission efficiency, and the removal of the reverse gear that saves a significant 2.3kg). This improves the overall consumption by 0.62%. Reverse drive comes from the electric motor, improving further efficiency and comfort.
In the HEV, the four-cylinder 1.6 GDI unit produces a combined maximum power output of 141PS when paired with the 32kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. In the PHEV version, a 62kW e-motor delivers combined maximum power of 183PS, and provides an electric-only driving range of up to 65km (WLTP combined, with 16-inch wheels), sufficient for most daily commutes.
An intelligent ‘Green Zone’ Drive Mode on Niro HEV and PHEV models automates the use of electric power by taking location guidance from the navigation system, and by learning from driving patterns. Built-up areas or roads near schools and hospitals are designated as Green Zones, ensuring the vehicle automatically switches to electric-only driving to reduce the exhaust emissions. The customer can also take control of Green Zones by registering certain addresses in which they wish to reduce their vehicle’s emissions, for instance their home or office.
The all-new Niro EV combines a 460 km (WLTP) driving range with 150kW of available power and 255 Nm (26.0 kgf.m) of instant torque for lively performance. With a top speed of 167km/h and 0-100km/h taking 7.8 seconds, the all-new Niro EV makes effortless and smooth progress in all conditions.
Topping up the all-new Niro EV’s 64.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery from 10-80% takes 43 minutes with a suitable DC high-power charger under optimum conditions. When a DC charge point is selected as the destination and when temperatures are low, the system in the Niro EV uses navigation-based battery conditioning to pre-heat the battery, which helps shorten charge times and improves battery performance.
The all-new Niro HEV and PHEV benefit from a maximum braked towing capacity of 1,300kg, while the Niro EV offers 750kg of towing potential for those considering zero-emission adventures.
Kia Niro PHEV
A comfortable and responsive driving experience
The all-new Niro is based on Kia’s highly flexible and fully electrified third generation ‘K’ platform. An increase in torsional rigidity compared to the previous Niro delivers improvements in ride, handling, and steering behaviour. A significant increase of 22% in the proportion of high-tensile strength hot-stamping steel serves to improve efficiency and safety, while the body in white weight has been reduced by 6%, or 20.3kg.
The ‘K’ architecture allows for various battery mounting options depending on the powertrain. HEV has the battery mounted beneath the rear seats, PHEV has the battery located under the floor below the rear seats, while the Niro EV has its battery mounted within the central section of the floorplan. With each configuration, the additional weight is positioned in the most suitable location for weight balance and packaging and the suspension is tuned to optimise ride and dynamics.
The all-new Niro has received suspension and steering improvements over its predecessor to deliver a more enjoyable and responsive drive. The MacPherson strut-type suspension at the front and multi-link type set-up at the rear have been tuned for a responsive, stable and comfortable drive. A new tilt-type bearing reduces the friction in the strut and enables a smoother damper motion. It also reduces the friction in the steering system that, together with tuning of the steering software, provides a very natural steering feel with excellent feedback.
Additional insulation and padding have been inserted throughout the vehicle’s structure to combat unwanted engine and road noise – especially important when running under near-silent electric power.
Kia Niro HEV
Bold exterior design
The exterior aesthetic was guided by the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design ethos, fusing the emotional with the rational to create a vehicle that inspires movement. With a purposeful and head-turning look, the all-new Niro brings much needed visual character to the CUV segment.
The front of the all-new Niro showcases the latest evolution of Kia’s signature Tiger Face, which now extends to the front fenders. The windscreen features a unique double-cowl design where the top and bottom cowl covers mirror each other for a sense of visual harmony. Angular ‘Heartbeat’ daytime running lights (DRLs) add to the contemporary look, while a bold skid plate and cladding enhance the vehicle’s rugged stance.
The Niro EV is distinguished from HEV and PHEV models by a two-tone closed grille and unique Steel Gray side cladding. It also has a unique lower grille and bumper treatment, in addition to model-specific aerodynamic 17-inch alloy wheels. The charging port is positioned in the centre of the front grille.
Simple character lines on the flanks lead to a bold Aero C-Pillar towards the rear. This has been carefully crafted to manage airflow along the rear flanks and out through a hidden channel terminating by the rear lights, minimising drag-inducing turbulence. This helps the all-new Niro achieve a competitive drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29.
At the rear, boomerang-shaped LED taillights accentuate the dynamic stance and sense of purpose. These sit alongside a simple recess for the licence plate and Kia logo, while the heartbeat-shaped rear reflectors, rugged skid plate and strong diffuser echo design elements from the front-end.
Customers can choose from nine modern exterior colours: Cityscape Green, Clear White, Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, Mineral Blue, Interstellar Gray, Orange Delight, Runway Red and Steel Gray. Personalisation options include the choice of different C-pillar colours that contrast and complement the main body colour, and up to three different finishes for the cladding, depending on the chosen trim level and powertrain.
Kia Niro HEV / Kia Niro EV
Spacious and flexible interior
With enhanced proportions courtesy of its new platform, the all-new Niro benefits from additional occupant and storage space compared to the first-generation model. Front seat passengers enjoy 1,028mm of headroom and 1,053mm of legroom, while rear seat passengers benefit from 1,005mm of headroom in HEV and PHEV models, and 967mm in the Niro EV. With 1,011mm of rear seat legroom in the Niro HEV and PHEV, and 938mm in the Niro EV, rear-seat occupants can relax in comfort throughout the journey, too.
The generous cargo capacity is up to 1,445 litres in the HEV, 1,342 litres in the PHEV and 1,392 litres in the EV with the rear seats folded. A handy 20 litre frunk adds an extra slice of storage potential for those opting for the Niro EV.
The frames of the slimline front seats have been reduced by 30mm for an almost 30% thinner overall form, freeing up additional rear passenger space. Second-row passengers also benefit from USB-C charging ports mounted in the front seats. The all-new Niro also features an innovative front passenger ‘relaxion’ seat. When the vehicle is stationary – for example while charging, the front passenger can recline at the touch of a button, with the seat providing optimal postural support.
All key controls have been placed ergonomically to be within easy reach of the driver. An off-centre dashboard houses two seamless 10.25-inch display screens that house driver and infotainment functions, while a multi-mode touch display allows control of infotainment and heating while minimising driver distractions.
A 10-inch head-up display (HUD) system projects vital driving information, including speed, ADAS data and navigation indications, directly onto the front windscreen to enhance safety and convenience.
Echoing the choice of eco-friendly powertrains, the environmental considerations continue inside the cabin. The headlining is made from recycled wallpaper, door panels are finished with VOC free paint, the PU vegan leather seat coverings contain Tencel from Eucalyptus trees, and the cargo screen is knitted material made of 75% recycled fibres. These sustainable elements produce an environmentally considerate interior full of natural and tactile finishes.
Kia Niro EV
Cutting-edge safety and convenience technologies
The all-new Niro features Kia’s advanced suite of DriveWise intelligent Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for added comfort, safety and ease of use.
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) will deliver an audible and visual warning to the driver (or apply the brakes) if the system detects a possible collision with other road users or pedestrians. When navigating junctions, using the turn signal will activate the Junction Turning function, and in the Niro EV, a Junction Crossing function warns if there is a possibility of a collision with another vehicle, either from oncoming or side traffic. If the system has issued a warning but the driver takes no action, it will automatically apply the brakes to avert an impact.
The all-new Niro’s front view camera and in-built navigation system integrate to display the current speed limit. The Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) system will display the current speed limit and automatically change the set speed (after confirmation by the driver) by using the information detected through the front view camera. Also keeping Niro occupants safe on the roads are other ADAS features, including Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Highway Driving Assist (HDA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control-Curve (NSCC-C), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear View Monitor (RVM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA).
A series of useful technologies offer a helping hand when parking and when exiting the vehicle. Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) allows the driver to complete the parking manoeuvre remotely by using the key fob. In tight parking positions, the vehicle can park itself by moving in straight lines back and forth, aided by ultrasonic sensors. When conducting driver-controlled parking, the Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA-R) and Front/Rear Parking Distance Warning (PDW-F/R) systems help manoeuvre into the tightest of spots. Once parked, Safe Exit Assist (SEA) provides a warning if a vehicle is approaching from the rear-side when getting out of the vehicle, with the electronic child lock preventing rear-seat passengers from opening the rear door.
Other convenience features include an advanced Voice Car Control system featuring Natural Voice Recognition technology, allowing occupants to control key vehicle systems such as temperature and audio settings. A new Multi-Command feature means passengers can also control multiple functions with one command. Additional convenience is provided by a power tailgate that can open automatically on detecting the user’s smart key.
Niro EV hosts additional convenience features made possible via inspirational connectivity tech such as control of the start/stop battery charging, setting the charging schedule along with the departure time and also operating climate control settings from the Kia Connect App.
A new ‘User Profile Transfer’ feature enables users to back-up their in-vehicle Kia Connect preferences via the cloud and transfer settings from one vehicle to the next. This is designed for customers who often switch between different Kia Connect-equipped cars, such as fleet drivers who use pool cars, or families with more than one Kia Connect-equipped vehicle in their household.
Ideal for trips away, the battery used to power the all-new Niro EV can become a mobile energy source. Using the interior socket and an external connector, Niro EV owners can conveniently utilise power in the battery (down to a minimum of 20% charge) to run other electronic devices. This Vehicle-to-Device (V2D) function is rated at 3kW, providing V2D capability ideal for outdoor leisure pursuits and long weekend countryside getaways.
Using Kia Connect, drivers of the Niro EV can also view and control vehicle charge status, in addition to planning a route using online navigation, syncing Apple and Google calendars, and accessing onboard features such as charge station proximity, live weather, and real-time traffic alerts.
Charging is simplified with Kia Charge, a service that provides Niro PHEV and EV owners with access to over 350,000 charging stations and a selection of usage plans suited to their charging needs. Kia’s partnership with IONITY also means that Niro users have additional access to over 400 charging stations. All energy obtained from an IONITY charger comes from 100% renewable sources from certified suppliers.
