Kia Niro Hybrid 1.6 SX (A) Review

Offered in hybrid and electric versions, the original Niro was an early proponent of eco-friendly driving, and Kia went with a conventionally good-looking design for these cars. It seems like the idea was to create a streamlined experience for the transition of drivers new to these technologies.

It doesn't take long to realise the change in direction with the new Niro. The bold new face not only makes it easy to point out the Niro within Kia's entire lineup here, it also sets the hybrid crossover apart from the competition - there's no way you'll mistake it for something else. It looks modern and totally different from before, but the important question is, how does it drive?

Did the engine just turn on?

Seamless - that's how anyone would describe the driving experience of the new Kia Niro Hybrid.

While the old Niro Hybrid was criticised for its hybrid drivetrain's lack of refinement, the new drivetrain, which sees Kia's latest 1.6-litre Smartstream engine paired to a 32kW electric motor, offers one of the smoothest hybrid driving experiences you can find.

Reminiscent of the Sorento Hybrid that I've recently driven, the Niro's hybrid drivetrain has the ability to get it up to speed on pure electric power despite having a lower total output of 128bhp and 144Nm of torque.

Put the car in the Eco drive mode you'll find it running on electric power at every suitable opportunity. The best part is, you wouldn't even feel any incongruence when the engine turns on to aid in propelling the car to greater speeds.

The driving experience is equally seamless when you are coming to a stop. At the lowest regenerative braking strength setting, braking is natural, with excellent modulation and pedal feel.

And if you want to maximise efficiency, you can easily toggle between the different levels of regenerative braking with the paddle shifters. These paddle shifters switch over to allow you to change the gears manually in the Sport drive mode to offer an engaging drive. Pretty smart.

A thoughtfully-designed space to be in

While the first thing you notice might be the large panoramic curved display that houses the digital instrument cluster and infotainment display within a single, seamless and chic panel, what really got my attention was the cleverly designed control panel sitting right below the centre air vents.

This classy-looking LCD touchscreen panel can be switched between functions for the infotainment and climate control at the touch of a button.

Everything from its purpose, to the fonts used, the inclusion of two control knobs and the fact that the screen is in fingerprint-hiding matte finishing just screams thoughtfulness.

And Kia doesn't even limit you to this control panel. You could still fiddle with any of these settings through the infotainment if you prefer a larger display to work with.

Every single control on the Niro is intuitive to use and well within reach of the driver.

With the smart cruise control and driver assist buttons prominently situated on the steering spoke, there isn't a need to fiddle with a stalk at an obscured location as with some other cars. Clearly, the designers have given the aspect of functionality more than a passing thought.

Comfort, sustainability and quality go hand-in-hand

Equally thoughtful, is the decision to go with sustainable materials such as the vegan leather seats made from eucalyptus trees, and the headliner that is made of recycled materials.

But don't let the notion of sustainability mar your expectation of the comfort level and quality - the interior of the Niro is top-notch.

Albeit being vegan leather, the texture of the seats is soft and smooth, not too different from normal leather in fact. And with the SX trim, you'll get heated and ventilated functions in front, which work quietly and effectively.

While the heated steering wheel might seem poorly suited for Singapore's hot weather, the warmth is actually really soothing, especially when your hands are in the direct line of the aircon vents.

Kia mentioned that the seats are intentionally made slimmer to allow for more space within. The seats sure feel plush and comfy, so it's clear that hasn't affected the cushioning much.

But what's quantifiable, is the amount of room within the Niro, with the driver's seat adjusted to my normal driving position, there's still plenty of legroom at the rear and headroom is really generous as well.

All-new futuristic looks, same approachable and easy drive

Design wise, gone is the 'Tiger Nose' grille that Kia's lineup sported when the original Niro was introduced.

This latest iteration of Kia's rounded Tiger Face is a futuristic design that places the two head lights below a slim metallic element that makes up part of the sleek upper grille.

The resulting face is reminiscent of squinty-eyed cat with a pair of really bright, fluffy cheeks.

The next exciting design element has to be the Niro Hybrid's Aero C-pillars, which are flanked by the boomerang-shaped LED taillights.

The Aero C-pillar isn't just for looks - it features a functional vent that allows air to pass through, improving aerodynamics.

With excellent aerodynamics and a smart, refined hybrid powertrain, the Niro Hybrid offers excellent fuel economy - an actual 100km drive with a healthy mix of highway and city driving resulted in a fuel consumption of merely 19.6km/L.

I've always felt that car designs should connect to the soul of a car - a sports car should have an aggressive design. In the case of the the Niro Hybrid, its design couldn't have been more apt. Every bit of the car - from its design, to its well thought out interior, and its seamless drive - perfectly portrays its approachable and easy-to-drive nature.


In the market for an eco-friendly crossover? You might be interested in these cars as well:
 
Volvo C40 Recharge is a seamless EV experience
 
Mercedes EQB: Adaptable and luxurious mobility
 
The Volvo XC40 B4 is quiet and well-built
 
Peugeot e-2008 is an easy-going Gallic crossover

Soak in more of the futuristic exterior of this Kia Niro Hybrid in our video review!