The new year also brings a lot of news for Kia. It has revealed its all-new Niro on January 17. Kia calls it “a next-generation state-of-the-art model that further demonstrates the company’s rapid progress in becoming a global sustainable mobility solutions provider.” Wow!

An integral part of Kia’s growing eco-friendly model line-up, the next-generation Niro has been designed from the ground up to meet the complex and varied needs of today’s sustainability-conscious consumers, that’s for sure.

Based on the third generation platform, the new Niro benefits from a larger body. One will find also more premium and eco-friendly materials which, according to Kia, “combine to create a minimalist avant-garde feel”

The photo of the dashboard indeed shows rather modernistic digital displays and interior controls.

At the heart of all-new Niro’s eco-friendly credentials are a trio of electrified powertrains, comprising hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery electric (BEV) options. PHEV and BEV models will be revealed at a later date, closer to market launch.

A so-called “Smartstream” 1.6-liter GDI engine featuring improved cooling, friction and combustion technologies helps power the HEV model. The powerplant ensures competitive fuel efficiency, with the all-new Niro HEV capable of achieving 20.8km/L or 4,80 l/100 km. (based on Korean standard).

“The all-new Kia Niro heralds the next step in our journey to become a sustainable mobility solutions provider,” said Artur Martins, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Brand and Customer Experience Division at Kia Corporation. “From the outset, our ambition was to create a car that makes it easier for people to practice a sustainable lifestyle. With its eco-friendly materials, advanced technology and range of highly efficient electrified powertrains, the all-new Niro truly delivers on its goal.”

Sales of the all-new Kia Niro HEV will commence in Korea this month, with sales in selected global markets due to follow later this year.

We will come back later with more technical details about the Kia Niro, stay tuned!

Hans Knol ten Bensel