New Kia Niro: Discover Its All-New Look

After the Los Angeles show, it was the Seoul Mobility Show that opened its doors last week. Featuring a world premiere, that of the new Kia Niro.

The first generation, launched in 2016 with a rather modest design, was notable for its absence of diesel – a fact not so common five years ago! – and for its crossover look rather than a SUV. These two trends are now reflected in the automotive world we live in, just like the range of powertrains offered by this Kia, which has sold over 500,000 units.

With a hybrid version, a plug-in hybrid, and a 100% electric model, the Kia e-Niro was indeed one of the first cars to move away from 100% thermal engines. Better yet, its electric version boasts one of the best real-world ranges on the market: comfortably 400 km for 455 km homologated on the road, and over 500 km in urban areas. But now, this version will soon be surpassed by the new arrival. First in terms of design, but also in technological terms.

Breaking the mold

To appear more modern, the Niro undergoes a complete transformation. For this, it draws heavily from the Habaniro concept the Korean manufacturer showcased in 2019, of course without the gull-wing doors. Its previous ‘Tiger Nose’ front grille disappears in favor of a ‘Tiger Face’ look, with a high, widened grille that tapers as it runs over the headlights. On the 100% electric version, charging is done through a hatch located in the center of the bumper, making it more practical for parking lot recharging. In any case, its front end is significantly less open and spectacular than the Sportage. Is this a decision aimed at preserving the classic side of the Niro?

The latter attempts to stand out with a second body color that covers the B-pillar and extends around the rear wheel arch. A kind of sharp cut, but on a smaller scale than what Peugeot did with the 3008, and an originality that needs to be seen “in real life” to appreciate its relevance. According to the Korean manufacturer, the rear pillar improves aerodynamics while facilitating airflow, before blending into boomerang-shaped taillights. These appear slim around a contained-sized rear window. To be continued.

Futuristic interior… and eco-friendly

The dimensions of this future Niro have not yet been disclosed, but it is expected to be slightly larger than the current model, which measures 4.36 m long, 1.81 m wide, and 1.56 m high. This increase will also allow for a more spacious interior, aided by new electrification techniques. It is not yet known whether the platform used will be 400 V or 800 V, like the recent Kia EV6. But initial information suggests it will likely be an evolution of the existing technology (400 V), enabling Kia to continue offering the Niro at a more accessible price point.

Inside, there are many changes. The dashboard evolves into an “all-in-one” setup with interconnected screens without a hood, large in size and fully digital. However, the most important functions remain directly accessible via buttons, with the gear “lever,” a rotary button, already familiar.

Thanks to carefully chosen materials, such as recycled paper for the roof liner or eucalyptus leaves for the seats, the Kia Niro 2022 also promotes an eco-friendly image. This mindset is reflected in the Greenzone mode, which automatically switches the plug-in hybrid to all-electric in designated “green” zones. These include residential neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, and hospitals detected via navigation data.

More technologically advanced than ever, the future Kia Niro will be launched in the second half of 2022, with pricing details expected before summer.

Also read: Hyundai Kona Electric: info, range, and price of the SUV