Video test – Kia Niro Hybrid (2022): for those allergic to the plug

In 2016, Kia launched its Niro. In its infancy marketed only in a hybrid, the Korean manufacturer makes no secret of its desire to reject it also in a 100% electric and rechargeable hybrid. precedent, which will be a milestone because Kia will be the first brand to get such an offer – without petrol and diesel engines. If the bet seemed audacious at first, success has been around since the Niro became Kia’s best-selling model in France for several years. Despite this enthusiasm, it was time after six years of professional life to hand over responsibility to a new generation. It is now done today.

Video test – Kia Niro Hybrid (2022): for those allergic to the plug

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Stylistically, the first nero of the name was quite vulgar and harmonic, some might say. This second generation radically breaks up with more assertive and aggressive lines, largely inspired by the brand’s latest creations, namely the EV6 and Sportage. Thus, its main advantage is the rear strut, which can be gray, black (optional) or your body. In the first case, this delineation obviously brings an excess of personality, but that’s not all because this piece also has an aerodynamic purpose. But that’s not all, the new Niro’s front is far from indifferent with massive headlights that display a unique light signature as well as a minimally reduced grille. At the rear, it’s the boom-shaped lights that are challenging. They are related to the others positioned in the rear bumper, which takes on the signature of the headlights. It is clear that the normative aspect has disappeared. So Kia is risking success, in our opinion.

Inside, the Niro takes over Kia’s latest model. Thus, the dashboard consists of a dual 10.25-inch digital pad.

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This digital tape controls both the air conditioning and the radio.

One distinguishing feature is the presence of a touch bar called the “Multi-Mode Touch Screen” located below the fully configurable display that manages both the air conditioning and navigation by changing the display and functions. Excellent idea, especially since ergonomics is normal and this limits the number of buttons on the dashboard. There is plenty of storage space. The quality of the materials is generally good even if some parts are made of hard plastic. Kia corrects this drawback by taking care of its appearance by giving it a false marble look, especially on storm doors.

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As for the practical aspects, the second generation is progressing in all areas. Thus, with the increase in dimensions, be it length to 4.42 meters, width, height and wheelbase, the habitability becomes more generous, especially the legroom. The same applies to the download size, which increases. It is now 451 liters. And for the luggage cover, Kia offers a cover that can be folded very easily. Convenient for storage, but it is impossible to put things on it.

As before, the Niro is available as a plug-in hybrid and all-electric. After the first test on the latter’s wheel, which makes up the majority of sales, now it’s time for the hybrid version.

While other engines evolve during this second generation, this one remains identical. This technology is known and classic for Kia with a gasoline engine, here 105 hp 1.6 TGDI, paired with a 32 kW (43.5 hp) electric motor with a cumulative power of 141 hp. Unlike Toyota models, this engine is not connected to a CVT box, but to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. During use, it makes a huge difference because you avoid the predicament of a CVT gearbox which gives the impression of going into the turrets and thus proves quite unpleasant. Here, we have something more fun, less resonant and more dynamic.

Flat small but with respect to some very frank acceleration which tends to amplify the engine sound. Like all hybrids, you can drive all-electric for 1 or 2 km, but above all, the electric mass replaces or supports the electric motor, which leads to lower consumption, especially for use in the city. Thus, Kia announces an average of 4.5 l / 100 km. In our testing, we averaged 6.0L/100km, which is just right and especially with the technology, there is no wire on the leg for recharging because it’s very easy to do while driving. Especially since the Niro has panels that are used to customize the regeneration of batteries by making it more or less important.

This Niro is efficient, fun to drive with good damping and well-controlled body movements. On the other hand, dynamism is clearly not his favorite field. It’s not silly with this exercise, because the direction wants to be subtle and somewhat interesting. The Niro doesn’t exude driving pleasure, though. It is clear that he prefers the behavior of a good father.