One of the late arrivals to the 2017 model year was the Kia Niro. This small vehicle is one that can be considered either a small SUV or a large hatchback for the drive we want to have on the roads around the country. This vehicle is an impressive and versatile model that can certainly get you where you want to go. Now that we’ve had time to get used to the lineup that’s offered with the drive we want, the Kia team has improved the offering to give you more than just a typical hybrid to drive.
Before the end of the year, the Niro will be offered with a new Plug-in Hybrid that was shown in all its glory at the Los Angeles Auto Show. As a plug-in model,we need to know what this vehicle will offer in the form of the range which will be 26 miles if EV driving to make sure you can drive for most of the errands you have to execute without ever needing to use any of the gasoline. This vehicle also gives you an increased driving range of up to 560 miles once you start using the gasoline for the power.
A Few Differences
There are a few different items and features for the new Niro Plug-in versus the Niro Hybrid. You’ll see a modified front grill insert and surround, hybrid blue exterior accents, LED headlights, a charge port door, a seven-inch color meter cluster with a digital tachometer, and the ECO/Plug-in badges that set this version apart. These items stand out and let you know you’ve found a vehicle that has the EV driving you want in a car that’s offered in three trim levels from Kia with the LX, EX,and EX Premium being those trims you can choose from.
The power for the new PHEV model of the Kia Niro comes from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that also uses a 60-horsepower electric motor and an 8.9-kWh lithium polymer battery pack. This powertrain combines to give you 139 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque while giving you the benefit of 105 MPGe for the drive you want on the roads in your area. The charging time for this car could take nearly 2.5 hours when using a 240-volt Level 2 charger but the standard 120-volt Level 1 charger will take a full nine hours to charge the battery pack.
Some of the items you’re going to enjoy when it’s time to have the drive you’re looking for inside this new vehicle include technologies such as blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alerts, lane change assist, front and rear parking sensors, smart cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warnings, and lane keep assist. All these items are standard on this new PHEV model to give you a full package of what you’re looking for when you want to have the drive you’re looking for on the roads with the efficiency and use of EV power that you’ll want to enjoy.
Looking for something slightly different? Opt for the Kia Sorento!
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.
