The Niro is a sensible, economical model that rivals most small SUVs, although it comes only with FWD.
Handling and braking have been improved over the last version, and the ride is mostly comfortable, but road noise is very noticeable.
The controls are relatively intuitive, other than the split-use panel for the audio and climate systems.
Rear three-quarter visibility is hurt by the lack of a third side window.
The hybrid achieved an excellent 45 mpg overall, a 2-mpg improvement over the first generation.
The PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) has an EPA-estimated electric driving range of 33 miles, after which it transitions to regular hybrid operation and gets 47 mpg, in our tests.
It takes just 5.5 hours to recharge the 11.1-kWh battery using a 120-volt household outlet.
The redesigned 2023 Niro is very sensible and economical.
Even though it is only a front-wheel-drive model, its overall functionality rivals that of most small SUVs.
Handling and braking have been improved, and the ride is mostly comfortable, but the cabin is loud.
The hybrid achieved an excellent 45 mpg overall.
Unfortunately, the controls are now less friendly than before, and outward visibility is hurt by the elimination of the third side window.
The Niro is also offered as a plug-in hybrid with an estimated electric range of 33 miles before transitioning to regular hybrid operation.
The pure EV version has an EPA range of 253 miles.
AEB with pedestrian detection, AEB highway, BSW, and RCTW are standard.
Kia's five-passenger Niro marries good fuel economy with cargo versatility.
This front-wheel-drive hybrid uses a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine which, in conjunction with the electric drive unit, puts out a combined 139 hp.
This combo is mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Because the lithium-ion battery is located under the rear seat, that creates a flat cargo floor when the rear seats are folded.
We got 43 mpg overall, which is good but not as good as the Hyundai Ioniq or Toyota Prius.
The handling lacks agility and the ride is a bit choppy.
The optional power driver seat provides better support than the standard seats do.
A suite of advanced safety features is available, including automatic emergency braking, smart cruise control, and blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert.
A plug-in hybrid and full electric version were also offered.
Updates for the 2020 model include new headlights, a standard 8-inch touch screen, and various exterior styling details.
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