The Powertrain
Before going into detail about the Niro’s extras, let’s cut straight to the point: the hybrid powertrain. Beneath the hood, the Niro gets a fresh engine, using an Atkinson-cycle 1.6-liter four-cylinder that mates with a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor and a 1.6-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Together, these components pump out a surprising 139 horsepower and up to 195 pound-feet of torque.
However, that’s not the most impressive part. The most striking aspect of this engine is that it’s capable of propelling the Niro up to 52 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, 49 mpg on the highway, and 50 mpg combined. That makes it the most efficient commercial hybrid crossover ever conceived, pushing the boundaries of hybrid technology, and all without hindering its aesthetics or other offerings.
Safety Features
It wasn’t all that long ago when hybrids gave up extra features in lieu of added fuel economy. The Niro, on the other hand, aims to blend these two aspects in perfect harmony. Featuring impressive passive and active safety specs, the Niro is perhaps the safest crossover on the road. Crumple zones and air bags throughout highlight the passive features, while blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control keep you safe from harm, even if you aren’t paying attention to the best of your abilities.
Interior Specs
Another stellar amenity of the Niro is that it comes with a bevy of tech, comfort, and convenience features that are sure to please. This includes standard specs like a 7-inch color touch-screen display, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for easy smartphone integration, a rear camera display, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and even a six-speaker audio system.
Upper trim levels offer even more in the way of top-notch features, and for a bit more, you can get the Niro fully loaded with the specs you crave. The standouts of the high-end models includes a leather interior, heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats for ultimate comfort, a wireless phone charger, and a concert-quality, eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, which makes you feel like you’re hearing a band live. No matter what type of features you want, there’s a trim that’s sure to meet and exceed all your expectations.
With the Kia Niro, you get a hybrid that’s unlike anything else on the market today. Hopefully, you’ll fall in love as soon as you get behind the wheel. Just make sure to take it off the showroom floor before planting a kiss on its hood.
Photo via Kia.com