[Taboleo] Fuel Efficiency 25 km/l... Bigger and More Stylish 'Niro'

Stylish Yet Unobtrusive Exterior
Interior Greatly Incorporates Eco-Friendly Materials
Smooth Ride... Excellent Fuel Efficiency

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Kia's Niro, the country's representative hybrid (HEV) sports utility vehicle (SUV), is back. It has been fully redesigned into the 2nd generation after 5 years since the launch of the 1st generation. Everything has changed ? design, interior space, fuel efficiency, environment ? it is truly a 'full change.' The only thing that hasn't changed is its 'practicality.' Especially, the design change and fuel efficiency appeared to be major attractive points for young professionals and newlyweds considering a new car. As a quick preview, the fuel efficiency measured during this test drive was exactly 25 km/L, far exceeding the official fuel efficiency. Although electric vehicles are the trend nowadays, considering the hassle of charging, the appeal of hybrid cars remains strong. We drove 115 km from Gwangjin-gu, Seoul to Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do with the all-new Niro.

What has changed in the design, which was the biggest weakness?

The 'Mangdung-eo Niro' and 'Baemjangeo Niro' are no longer around. The 1st generation Niro was highly praised as a hybrid SUV but its design was a major point of contention, dividing opinions sharply. Although it was due to fuel efficiency, it was indeed a drawback.

The 2nd generation Niro is a complete transformation. The front features two horizontal lines as a point, and Kia's signature 'Tiger Face' design has been extended from the hood to the fender. While maintaining Kia's design identity, it offers a neat feeling rather than the recent trend of 'boldness.'

The dynamic side design emphasizes differentiation from the previous generation Niro. Especially the C-pillar. The boomerang-shaped LED rear combination lamp and the C-pillar enhance this impression. The ability to vary the color of the C-pillar to express individuality is also an advantage.

Emphasizing eco-friendliness, how has the interior changed?

The interior of the 2nd generation Niro can be summarized as openness and eco-friendliness. First, when sitting in the driver's seat, the 10.25-inch panoramic display (cluster/AVN) extending from the dashboard to the door trim immediately catches the eye. Also, the electronic shift dial (SBW) is positioned on the center console, emphasizing a high-tech impression befitting a hybrid vehicle.

There have been major changes in eco-friendliness. The vehicle's headlining contains fibers made from recycled plastic (PET), the window switch panel uses eco-friendly paint without BTX (benzene, toluene, xylene), and the bio synthetic leather seats utilize fibers made from eucalyptus leaf extracts. While eco-friendly materials are a global trend, it is undeniable that they contribute to price increases. However, since no BTX is detected, it is safe to ride with infants, and above all, the lack of 'new car smell' is a significant advantage.

The interior is very satisfying for its class. The 2nd generation Niro's overall length has increased by 65 mm to 4420 mm, and the wheelbase has grown by 20 mm to 2720 mm. Additionally, the width has increased by 20 mm to 1825 mm, and the height is 10 mm taller than the 1st generation at 1545 mm. The interior has literally become bigger. Combined with the open design elements, it offers a much larger sense of space than the previous generation.

The trunk cargo capacity has also increased by 15 liters to 451 liters. Moreover, the trunk floor height is unified, so when folding the rear seats, the floor is flat, making it ideal for car camping and outdoor activities.

How is the driving experience?

Starting the vehicle and driving out of the parking lot, the typical smoothness and quietness of an HEV vehicle were noticeable. The overall fundamentals such as acceleration, handling, quietness, and braking are excellent. The lightness of the steering and vehicle behavior was also impressive.

There was no feeling of power shortage on city roads, national highways, or expressways. The new Niro is equipped with a Smartstream G1.6 hybrid engine producing a maximum output of 105 ps and maximum torque of 14.7 kgf·m, along with a motor delivering a maximum output of 32 kW and maximum torque of 170 N·m. Simply put, lane changes and overtaking on the highway were effortless.

The regenerative braking control paddle shift now has smoother step differences than before, reducing driving discomfort. Also, as typical of hybrid vehicles, it offers a smart regenerative braking system that automatically adjusts the amount of regenerative braking based on the distance to the vehicle ahead, reducing the stress of braking.

The fuel efficiency confirmed after driving was 25 km/L, far exceeding the official combined fuel efficiency of 20.8 km/L for the 2nd generation Niro. Considering that city driving, steady driving, and highway driving were all experienced, and that the driving was somewhat aggressive due to the test drive, this is an impressive figure.

Quietness also passes with flying colors. In addition to the quiet hybrid drivetrain, laminated glass effectively blocks wind noise. Convenience features are also well implemented, including a head-up display, smart cruise control, and lane-keeping assist, among various advanced functions.

How about the price?

However, it is unfortunate that the price advantage is not significant. The prices for the Niro Smartstream G1.6 hybrid model are ▲Trendy 26.6 million KRW ▲Prestige 28.95 million KRW ▲Signature 33.06 million KRW (based on eco-friendly vehicle tax benefits and 3.5% individual consumption tax). Most consumers want options beyond the basic, and since the prices are similar to hybrid models of Hyundai Kona, Tucson, and Kia Sportage, the decision-making process may become more difficult.