Top Rankings in Driving Comfort and Dynamic Performance
in Urban SUV Evaluation by Leading German Automotive Magazine
Kia announced on July 9 that the Niro Hybrid has demonstrated its excellence by outperforming competing models from Volkswagen, Peugeot, SEAT, and Toyota in a recent comparison test of urban compact SUVs conducted by the leading German automotive magazine Auto Zeitung.
Auto Zeitung evaluated five models?Niro Hybrid, Peugeot 2008 Hybrid, Volkswagen T-Cross, SEAT Arona, and Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid?across five categories: body, driving comfort, powertrain, dynamic driving performance, and eco-friendliness and efficiency.
The Niro Hybrid ranked first in both the driving comfort and dynamic driving performance categories, and second in the body and powertrain categories. It achieved a total score of 2,926 points, surpassing the joint second-place finishers, the 2008 Hybrid and T-Cross (2,880 points each), by 46 points.
In the driving comfort category, which evaluates seat comfort, suspension, and climate control systems, the Niro Hybrid received the highest score of 688 points. The review noted, "The long wheelbase and multi-link rear suspension work in harmony, delivering sensitive yet smooth responses and offering excellent control even on rough surfaces."
In the dynamic driving performance category, which assesses steering, braking performance, and driving stability, the Niro Hybrid was the only model among the competitors to record both cold and hot braking distances from 100 km/h to a complete stop within 35 meters, despite having a longer overall length and heavier weight. It also received high marks for agile steering and stable body posture during cornering, securing the top position in this category.
The Niro Hybrid achieved the best fuel efficiency among the tested models and was rated second in both the body and powertrain categories, thanks to its spacious interior and cargo space, as well as high-quality materials and finish. Auto Zeitung commented on the Niro Hybrid's fuel efficiency, stating, "Even under test conditions with frequent high-load driving, it demonstrated an impressive fuel consumption of just 5.3 liters per 100 kilometers."
Elmar Siepen, editor-in-chief of Auto Zeitung, remarked, "The Niro Hybrid offers a size comparable to models from a higher segment, yet its price remains within the urban SUV category. It particularly outperformed its competitors with its generous space, outstanding fuel efficiency, and top-tier braking performance."
A Kia representative stated, "We are extremely proud that the Niro Hybrid has been recognized for its outstanding value in the European market, where urban compact SUVs are the mainstream. We will continue to strengthen our competitiveness based on superior quality and technology, solidifying our status as a global leader in recreational vehicles."
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