2017 Kia Niro
02-12-16, 06:04 PM
#1
2017 Kia Niro
The model unveiled today at the Chicago Auto Show is Kia's first to be built on a dedicated hybrid car platform. It's directly related to the Hyundai Ioniq hybrid and also shares its powertrain. Under the hood sits the new 1.6-liter Kappa GDi making 103 horsepower and running on the more efficient Atkinson Cycle. Between it and the six-speed twin-clutch transmission lies a 43 hp electric motor, which Kia calls a transmission-mounted electric device (TMED).
Together, they deliver a maximum output of 146 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque (264 Nm). That's decent, considering the 2016 Prius offers similar numbers while using a bigger 1.8-liter. Kia says that it chose to match a dual-clutch gearbox to the motor because it leverages the narrow optimum range of operation over multiple gear ratios.
While the 1.6-liter Kappa engine is not as powerful as what you find on the Rio, it knows some tricks. Engineers have fitted it with an exhaust gas recirculation system as well as an exhaust heat recovery system to deal with cold starts faster. For now, we only have one mile per gallon number, the estimated 50 mpg target.
Of course, the engine isn't the only clever bit that helps reduce your fuel bills. The Niro is built differently from all the other Kias. While it falls under the EcoDynamics sub-brand, it's the first bespoke car and uses 53% high-strength steel. The Niro also has an aluminum hood, tailgate, front control arms, front and rear knuckles. The unique platform also allows Kia to make a plug-in hybrid version that should arrive next year.
But the design of the car is the most difficult to explain. While the all-new Prius is a crazy mixture of lines, the Niro is very conservative. Not only that, but it takes the shape of a crossover, a subcompact one at that. Designed in Irvine, California, and Hwaseong, South Korea, the Noro has a definite resemblance to the Soul and the Sportage (from the back). Inside, it looks like Kia tried to combine existing switches and buttons with a minimalist appearance. Wireless charging and an array of safety systems will make it one of the most technologically advanced cars in this segment.
“The Niro hits the sweet spot by offering the best combination of outstanding mpg, an engaging driving experience, utility, and most importantly, a stunning design that doesn’t shout ‘hybrid,’,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president product planning KMA. “The subcompact CUV market continues to be one of the fastest-growing segments in the world, and the Niro offers a uniquely alluring yet practical package that consumers haven’t seen before.”
Together, they deliver a maximum output of 146 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque (264 Nm). That's decent, considering the 2016 Prius offers similar numbers while using a bigger 1.8-liter. Kia says that it chose to match a dual-clutch gearbox to the motor because it leverages the narrow optimum range of operation over multiple gear ratios.
While the 1.6-liter Kappa engine is not as powerful as what you find on the Rio, it knows some tricks. Engineers have fitted it with an exhaust gas recirculation system as well as an exhaust heat recovery system to deal with cold starts faster. For now, we only have one mile per gallon number, the estimated 50 mpg target.
Of course, the engine isn't the only clever bit that helps reduce your fuel bills. The Niro is built differently from all the other Kias. While it falls under the EcoDynamics sub-brand, it's the first bespoke car and uses 53% high-strength steel. The Niro also has an aluminum hood, tailgate, front control arms, front and rear knuckles. The unique platform also allows Kia to make a plug-in hybrid version that should arrive next year.
But the design of the car is the most difficult to explain. While the all-new Prius is a crazy mixture of lines, the Niro is very conservative. Not only that, but it takes the shape of a crossover, a subcompact one at that. Designed in Irvine, California, and Hwaseong, South Korea, the Noro has a definite resemblance to the Soul and the Sportage (from the back). Inside, it looks like Kia tried to combine existing switches and buttons with a minimalist appearance. Wireless charging and an array of safety systems will make it one of the most technologically advanced cars in this segment.
“The Niro hits the sweet spot by offering the best combination of outstanding mpg, an engaging driving experience, utility, and most importantly, a stunning design that doesn’t shout ‘hybrid,’,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president product planning KMA. “The subcompact CUV market continues to be one of the fastest-growing segments in the world, and the Niro offers a uniquely alluring yet practical package that consumers haven’t seen before.”
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Press Release:
ALL-NEW 2017 NIRO HYBRID UTILITY VEHICLE ARRIVES IN THE WINDY CITY FOR GLOBAL DEBUT AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW
Kia's Hybrid Utility Vehicle Boasts a Number of Firsts for the Brand, Including an All-New, Dedicated Eco-Car Platform and Unique Hybrid System
• Niro is a no-compromise package, maintaining the style and appeal of a utility vehicle while offering outstanding fuel economy with a targeted 50 mpg combined
• Niro challenges the hybrid-electric segment with an innovative hybrid system that directly contributes to a dynamic driving experience
CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2016 – A key component to Kia Motors' Green Car Roadmap was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show today as Kia Motors America (KMA) hosted the global debut of the all-new 2017 Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV). A no-compromise vehicle that combines driving enjoyment with eye-catching design, functional utility and hybrid efficiency, the all-new Niro strikes the perfect balance for today's consumers and stakes claim to a unique position between the hybrid-electric vehicle and CUV segments.
"The Niro hits the sweet spot by offering the best combination of outstanding mpg, an engaging driving experience, utility, and most importantly, a stunning design that doesn't shout 'hybrid,'" said Orth Hedrick, vice president product planning KMA. "The subcompact CUV market continues to be one of the fastest-growing segments in the world, and the Niro offers a uniquely alluring yet practical package that consumers haven't seen before."
The Niro is yet another vehicle introduced under the Kia Motors EcoDynamics environmentally friendly sub-brand and represents a number of firsts. While it was preceded by clean mobility products such as the Optima Hybrid and Soul EV, Niro is the first Kia to make use of an all-new, dedicated eco-car platform and is an important next step on the path to nearly tripling the brand's global green car line-up by 2020.
An "Un-Hybrid" Design
Designed at Kia's design centers in Irvine, California, and Namyang, Korea, the Niro demonstrates that owners don't have to sacrifice emotionally engaging design or functional utility in the name of efficiency. The HUV's design language is atypical of a hybrid, appearing strong and confident with subtly sculpted surfaces offset by robust styling cues. The Niro sports wide and low proportions with a long roofline and short overhangs that give it an overall athletic profile. Up front, the Niro bears a familiar front fascia highlighted by Kia's signature grille and flanked by aggressively shaped headlights that accentuate the Niro's strong shoulders. Contours on the hood lend visual interest and, along with voluminous wheel arches, rocker cladding, roof rails, and rear skid plate, contribute to a sporty look. Although the Niro has a cohesive crossover theme, it was designed with aerodynamics in mind, with its carefully shaped bodywork contributing to a relatively slippery coefficient of drag of .29.
Stepping inside the Niro reveals an inviting, modern, and high-tech interior. Glossy white or black accents underline the HUV's straightforward theme. The instrument panel is uncluttered and clean, with colorful and informative gauges at the forefront and perfectly positioned primary and secondary controls falling readily to hand. Interior roominess comes by way of the Niro's 106.3-inch wheelbase, body height, and wide stance, which affords ample leg-, head- and shoulder-room. Seats with increased pad density in the cushions ensure a comfortable ride, helping to prevent fatigue on longer trips. With its crossover-like proportions, the Niro boasts an elevated seating position much like the Kia Soul, providing drivers with a more commanding view of the road as well as easy ingress and egress. While the clever packaging of the high voltage battery assists in delivering a desirable driving experience, its location underneath the rear seats also increases cabin and cargo space and allows a flat load floor.
In addition to spaciousness and comfort, ensuring a quiet interior environment was also a key development focus for engineers. Copious insulation in the Niro's front structure, optimized suspension bushing stiffness, careful body sealing, and application of expanding foam inside the A- and B-pillars all prevent road and tire noise from entering the cabin. Furthermore, acoustic windshield glass and carefully shaped side mirrors mitigate wind noise.
Engineers also worked hard to address the innate issues often associated with hybrid powertrains. To that end, they minimized system noise and vibration at the source with specially designed engine mounts, equal-length driveshafts, and even added a damper inside the steering wheel hub to minimize vibrations felt in the steering wheel. Other NVH measures include a special embossed foam in the floor (under the carpet), and a dense insulating pad underneath the hood also help to keep unwanted noise to a minimum.
Strong and Light Core
The platform underpinning the Niro has been specifically engineered to accommodate the unique gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, and with 53 percent of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), including reinforcement in the A- and B-pillars as well as the roof rails, it is both a lightweight and durable structure. Extensive use of hot-stamped components and industrial joint adhesive increase torsional rigidity and structural integrity. As such, engineers are targeting the Niro to earn top honors from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS).
Weight reduction was a critical Niro development aspect, and in addition to the body, AHSS was also used to engineer other elements, including novel lightweight seat frames. Further, engineers were able to bring down the overall weight by using aluminum for the hood, tailgate and several suspension elements including the front lower control arms, front and rear knuckles, and in the brake calipers. Even the parking brake pedal contributes to the weight savings through the use of fiber-reinforced plastic construction. Finally, the engineers eliminated the traditional 12-volt battery to reduce weight, instead, utilizing the high-voltage lithium-ion polymer battery.
Uniquely Engineered Hybrid Powertrain
Motivating the Niro is a highly efficient and engaging powertrain starting with an all-new, state-of-the-art Kappa 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine, engineered specifically for hybrid applications. Making 103 horsepower, the new engine marks the first combination of the Atkinson Cycle, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), GDI and a long-stroke-narrow-bore specification to maximize efficiency. Efficiency and emissions are further improved via the Niro's exhaust heat recovery system, which speeds engine warm-up by routing coolant to a heat exchanger in the exhaust system. A 43-hp tractive motor, known as the transmission-mounted electric device (TMED), works in tandem with the gasoline engine to produce a robust 146 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque.
That power is transmitted through a newly developed, second-generation six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which not only boosts efficiency but is also a key factor to the Niro's great driving experience. The transmission delivers smooth, quick shifts for a natural and spirited feel in stark contrast to that of other hybrids equipped with continuously variable transmissions. Bringing the whole system together is a compact and lightweight 1.56-kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery located underneath the rear seat. Because the high-voltage battery is both power and energy dense, engineers were able to use the downsized gasoline engine to maximize fuel economy and reduce emissions.
With its unique combination of the lightweight TMED, proven GDI and Atkinson Cycle technology in the internal combustion engine, along with the DCT providing a dynamic driving experience, the Niro offers enjoyment and efficiency all in one, targeting a combined fuel efficiency rating of 50 mpg.
Driving Fun
The Niro's parallel and simplified hybrid system creates seamless transitions of power delivered to the front wheels, resulting in a very un-hybrid-like driving experience. The hybrid system is neither intrusive nor obvious. The Niro accelerates quickly off the line and continues its smooth power delivery, inspiring driver confidence in everyday driving maneuvers like merging onto the highway.
Special attention was also paid to brake feel. Applying lessons learned through development of two generations of Optima Hybrids as well as the fully electric Soul EV, Kia engineers designed the Niro's regenerative system to seamlessly blend in hydraulic friction braking. Consequently, deceleration feels more consistent and linear than other hybrids.
Advanced Hybrid Tech
Like the rest of Kia's lineup, the Niro will be offered with a suite of advanced driver assistance and convenience technologies. Familiar features that will be available on the HUV include Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist; Advanced Smart Cruise Control; Lane Departure Warning; and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
All-new Eco-DAS (Driver Assistance System) features Kia's first application of Coasting Guide and Predictive Energy Control. The Coasting Guide aims at maximizing fuel economy by essentially coaching the driver on when to coast and brake. Predictive Energy Control, meanwhile, uses the navigation system and cruise control to anticipate topographical changes on the road ahead and actively manage energy flow, seamlessly determining when its best to recharge the battery and when its best to expend stored energy to optimize overall efficiency. Similar systems have been seen on German luxury makes, but Kia's system is the first in the industry to monitor and adjust for both ascending and descending scenarios. Other notable features include Smart Air Intake, which reduces drag by carefully managing the intake of outside air for the HVAC system, and also an accompanying Auto Defog system that prevents condensation from building on the glass by monitoring cabin air conditions to manage the cycling of the A/C compressor.
Kia's award-winning infotainment and telematics system aims to keep Niro drivers connected at all times, with the newest version, UVO3, trickling down from the all-new 2017 Sportage. Complete with Androidv Auto™, Applevi CarPlay®, and UVO eServices featuring 14 telematics services, the enhanced system features up to 8 GB of music storage, access to onscreen apps such as Pandora®vii and Soundhound and Wi-Fi tethering capability. All this is displayed on a 7-inch capacitive touch screen.
Kia's Hybrid Utility Vehicle Boasts a Number of Firsts for the Brand, Including an All-New, Dedicated Eco-Car Platform and Unique Hybrid System
• Niro is a no-compromise package, maintaining the style and appeal of a utility vehicle while offering outstanding fuel economy with a targeted 50 mpg combined
• Niro challenges the hybrid-electric segment with an innovative hybrid system that directly contributes to a dynamic driving experience
CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2016 – A key component to Kia Motors' Green Car Roadmap was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show today as Kia Motors America (KMA) hosted the global debut of the all-new 2017 Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV). A no-compromise vehicle that combines driving enjoyment with eye-catching design, functional utility and hybrid efficiency, the all-new Niro strikes the perfect balance for today's consumers and stakes claim to a unique position between the hybrid-electric vehicle and CUV segments.
"The Niro hits the sweet spot by offering the best combination of outstanding mpg, an engaging driving experience, utility, and most importantly, a stunning design that doesn't shout 'hybrid,'" said Orth Hedrick, vice president product planning KMA. "The subcompact CUV market continues to be one of the fastest-growing segments in the world, and the Niro offers a uniquely alluring yet practical package that consumers haven't seen before."
The Niro is yet another vehicle introduced under the Kia Motors EcoDynamics environmentally friendly sub-brand and represents a number of firsts. While it was preceded by clean mobility products such as the Optima Hybrid and Soul EV, Niro is the first Kia to make use of an all-new, dedicated eco-car platform and is an important next step on the path to nearly tripling the brand's global green car line-up by 2020.
An "Un-Hybrid" Design
Designed at Kia's design centers in Irvine, California, and Namyang, Korea, the Niro demonstrates that owners don't have to sacrifice emotionally engaging design or functional utility in the name of efficiency. The HUV's design language is atypical of a hybrid, appearing strong and confident with subtly sculpted surfaces offset by robust styling cues. The Niro sports wide and low proportions with a long roofline and short overhangs that give it an overall athletic profile. Up front, the Niro bears a familiar front fascia highlighted by Kia's signature grille and flanked by aggressively shaped headlights that accentuate the Niro's strong shoulders. Contours on the hood lend visual interest and, along with voluminous wheel arches, rocker cladding, roof rails, and rear skid plate, contribute to a sporty look. Although the Niro has a cohesive crossover theme, it was designed with aerodynamics in mind, with its carefully shaped bodywork contributing to a relatively slippery coefficient of drag of .29.
Stepping inside the Niro reveals an inviting, modern, and high-tech interior. Glossy white or black accents underline the HUV's straightforward theme. The instrument panel is uncluttered and clean, with colorful and informative gauges at the forefront and perfectly positioned primary and secondary controls falling readily to hand. Interior roominess comes by way of the Niro's 106.3-inch wheelbase, body height, and wide stance, which affords ample leg-, head- and shoulder-room. Seats with increased pad density in the cushions ensure a comfortable ride, helping to prevent fatigue on longer trips. With its crossover-like proportions, the Niro boasts an elevated seating position much like the Kia Soul, providing drivers with a more commanding view of the road as well as easy ingress and egress. While the clever packaging of the high voltage battery assists in delivering a desirable driving experience, its location underneath the rear seats also increases cabin and cargo space and allows a flat load floor.
In addition to spaciousness and comfort, ensuring a quiet interior environment was also a key development focus for engineers. Copious insulation in the Niro's front structure, optimized suspension bushing stiffness, careful body sealing, and application of expanding foam inside the A- and B-pillars all prevent road and tire noise from entering the cabin. Furthermore, acoustic windshield glass and carefully shaped side mirrors mitigate wind noise.
Engineers also worked hard to address the innate issues often associated with hybrid powertrains. To that end, they minimized system noise and vibration at the source with specially designed engine mounts, equal-length driveshafts, and even added a damper inside the steering wheel hub to minimize vibrations felt in the steering wheel. Other NVH measures include a special embossed foam in the floor (under the carpet), and a dense insulating pad underneath the hood also help to keep unwanted noise to a minimum.
Strong and Light Core
The platform underpinning the Niro has been specifically engineered to accommodate the unique gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, and with 53 percent of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), including reinforcement in the A- and B-pillars as well as the roof rails, it is both a lightweight and durable structure. Extensive use of hot-stamped components and industrial joint adhesive increase torsional rigidity and structural integrity. As such, engineers are targeting the Niro to earn top honors from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS).
Weight reduction was a critical Niro development aspect, and in addition to the body, AHSS was also used to engineer other elements, including novel lightweight seat frames. Further, engineers were able to bring down the overall weight by using aluminum for the hood, tailgate and several suspension elements including the front lower control arms, front and rear knuckles, and in the brake calipers. Even the parking brake pedal contributes to the weight savings through the use of fiber-reinforced plastic construction. Finally, the engineers eliminated the traditional 12-volt battery to reduce weight, instead, utilizing the high-voltage lithium-ion polymer battery.
Uniquely Engineered Hybrid Powertrain
Motivating the Niro is a highly efficient and engaging powertrain starting with an all-new, state-of-the-art Kappa 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine, engineered specifically for hybrid applications. Making 103 horsepower, the new engine marks the first combination of the Atkinson Cycle, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), GDI and a long-stroke-narrow-bore specification to maximize efficiency. Efficiency and emissions are further improved via the Niro's exhaust heat recovery system, which speeds engine warm-up by routing coolant to a heat exchanger in the exhaust system. A 43-hp tractive motor, known as the transmission-mounted electric device (TMED), works in tandem with the gasoline engine to produce a robust 146 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque.
That power is transmitted through a newly developed, second-generation six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which not only boosts efficiency but is also a key factor to the Niro's great driving experience. The transmission delivers smooth, quick shifts for a natural and spirited feel in stark contrast to that of other hybrids equipped with continuously variable transmissions. Bringing the whole system together is a compact and lightweight 1.56-kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery located underneath the rear seat. Because the high-voltage battery is both power and energy dense, engineers were able to use the downsized gasoline engine to maximize fuel economy and reduce emissions.
With its unique combination of the lightweight TMED, proven GDI and Atkinson Cycle technology in the internal combustion engine, along with the DCT providing a dynamic driving experience, the Niro offers enjoyment and efficiency all in one, targeting a combined fuel efficiency rating of 50 mpg.
Driving Fun
The Niro's parallel and simplified hybrid system creates seamless transitions of power delivered to the front wheels, resulting in a very un-hybrid-like driving experience. The hybrid system is neither intrusive nor obvious. The Niro accelerates quickly off the line and continues its smooth power delivery, inspiring driver confidence in everyday driving maneuvers like merging onto the highway.
Special attention was also paid to brake feel. Applying lessons learned through development of two generations of Optima Hybrids as well as the fully electric Soul EV, Kia engineers designed the Niro's regenerative system to seamlessly blend in hydraulic friction braking. Consequently, deceleration feels more consistent and linear than other hybrids.
Advanced Hybrid Tech
Like the rest of Kia's lineup, the Niro will be offered with a suite of advanced driver assistance and convenience technologies. Familiar features that will be available on the HUV include Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist; Advanced Smart Cruise Control; Lane Departure Warning; and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
All-new Eco-DAS (Driver Assistance System) features Kia's first application of Coasting Guide and Predictive Energy Control. The Coasting Guide aims at maximizing fuel economy by essentially coaching the driver on when to coast and brake. Predictive Energy Control, meanwhile, uses the navigation system and cruise control to anticipate topographical changes on the road ahead and actively manage energy flow, seamlessly determining when its best to recharge the battery and when its best to expend stored energy to optimize overall efficiency. Similar systems have been seen on German luxury makes, but Kia's system is the first in the industry to monitor and adjust for both ascending and descending scenarios. Other notable features include Smart Air Intake, which reduces drag by carefully managing the intake of outside air for the HVAC system, and also an accompanying Auto Defog system that prevents condensation from building on the glass by monitoring cabin air conditions to manage the cycling of the A/C compressor.
Kia's award-winning infotainment and telematics system aims to keep Niro drivers connected at all times, with the newest version, UVO3, trickling down from the all-new 2017 Sportage. Complete with Androidv Auto™, Applevi CarPlay®, and UVO eServices featuring 14 telematics services, the enhanced system features up to 8 GB of music storage, access to onscreen apps such as Pandora®vii and Soundhound and Wi-Fi tethering capability. All this is displayed on a 7-inch capacitive touch screen.
02-12-16, 06:43 PM
#2
Dedicated hybrid small SUV that gets 50 MPG is great idea from KIA, it is sister vehicle to Hyundai Ioniq.
Few problems is that it is exactly the same size as new Sportage (even has larger wheelbase I think) but with significantly cheaper interior (think cheapest Kia you can find, Rio) and boring appliance looks compared to excellent looking Sportage.
Interior cheapness suggests that they tried to make it cheaper due to hybrid powertrain, but it certainly wont be cheaper than Sportage, which is going to be faster, much better looking with much faster powertrain and two classes better interior. And likely cheaper too.
They should have made it better looking and higher quality than Sportage, and that would justify higher price as well.
Few problems is that it is exactly the same size as new Sportage (even has larger wheelbase I think) but with significantly cheaper interior (think cheapest Kia you can find, Rio) and boring appliance looks compared to excellent looking Sportage.
Interior cheapness suggests that they tried to make it cheaper due to hybrid powertrain, but it certainly wont be cheaper than Sportage, which is going to be faster, much better looking with much faster powertrain and two classes better interior. And likely cheaper too.
They should have made it better looking and higher quality than Sportage, and that would justify higher price as well.
02-12-16, 09:11 PM
#4
Lexus Test Driver
Sooooo refreshing to see a NORMAL looking dedicated hybrid. This could pass as a very ordinary SUV for those who do not wish to make a statement, but still reward them with cost-savings (what a brilliant idea!). There is a huge chunk of society who does not want to look like a goof ball while trying to save money and be efficient.
Very nice job Kia.
Very nice job Kia.
02-12-16, 11:44 PM
#5
Lexus Champion
I really like where Kia and Hyundai is going. They are making great looking cars and have almost something for every shoppers out there. I'm curious is they will soon start adding trucks to their brand.
02-13-16, 09:09 AM
#6
Sooooo refreshing to see a NORMAL looking dedicated hybrid. This could pass as a very ordinary SUV for those who do not wish to make a statement, but still reward them with cost-savings (what a brilliant idea!). There is a huge chunk of society who does not want to look like a goof ball while trying to save money and be efficient.
Very nice job Kia.
Very nice job Kia.
Maybe Sportage should have been dedicated hybrid and Niro could be their Rav4 competitor.
02-13-16, 09:44 AM
#7
Sooooo refreshing to see a NORMAL looking dedicated hybrid. This could pass as a very ordinary SUV for those who do not wish to make a statement, but still reward them with cost-savings (what a brilliant idea!). There is a huge chunk of society who does not want to look like a goof ball while trying to save money and be efficient.
Very nice job Kia.
Very nice job Kia.
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02-13-16, 11:32 AM
#10
Dedicated hybrid small SUV that gets 50 MPG is great idea from KIA, it is sister vehicle to Hyundai Ioniq.
Few problems is that it is exactly the same size as new Sportage (even has larger wheelbase I think) but with significantly cheaper interior (think cheapest Kia you can find, Rio) and boring appliance looks compared to excellent looking Sportage.
Interior cheapness suggests that they tried to make it cheaper due to hybrid powertrain, but it certainly wont be cheaper than Sportage, which is going to be faster, much better looking with much faster powertrain and two classes better interior. And likely cheaper too.
They should have made it better looking and higher quality than Sportage, and that would justify higher price as well.
Few problems is that it is exactly the same size as new Sportage (even has larger wheelbase I think) but with significantly cheaper interior (think cheapest Kia you can find, Rio) and boring appliance looks compared to excellent looking Sportage.
Interior cheapness suggests that they tried to make it cheaper due to hybrid powertrain, but it certainly wont be cheaper than Sportage, which is going to be faster, much better looking with much faster powertrain and two classes better interior. And likely cheaper too.
They should have made it better looking and higher quality than Sportage, and that would justify higher price as well.
02-13-16, 02:57 PM
#11
It is definitely NOT bigger than the Sportage. I was at the debut and press days. Yes the wheelbase is just an inch or so longer than the Sportage, but the overall vehicle is closer in size to other Subcompact Utility vehicles like the HR-V, 500X, CX-3, etc. Interior looked and felt quite nice. They didn't note pricing, as the car still won't hit the U.S. market for about another year.
it has about the same wheelbase, but it is actually longer than 2016 Sportage... it is Rav4 size lenght wise. Quite possibly that went into bumpers if you are not seeing the difference live. But the numbers are out, and they are of course specific.
All of the competitors you listed are actually half size smaller than Sportage, they are B class based SUVs, while Sportage is C class based SUV and Niro is larger than that, same as Rav4 and CRV.
So Niro is Rav4 hybrid in size, Sportage is same wheelbase but 200mm smaller lenght and 500x is another 200mm smaller.
C-HR is Sportage sized for instance.
Hows the trunk compared to Rav4, i guess you had a chance to sit in it?
Overall, hybrid SUV is a very nice addition, excellent really, I just think 2016 Sportage is nicer in every way I can see so far.
02-15-16, 05:48 AM
#12
Lexus Fanatic
iTrader: (20)
not to mention foul suspension. it's quiet at traffic lights though. 
They should have made it better looking and higher quality than Sportage, and that would justify higher price as well.
i predict this vehicle will have almost NO impact on the market (u.s. at least).
tree huggers will buy the hideous new prius because it screams 'look at me!' and as you say, others looking at this niro will end up buying a sportage or rio, hr-v, etc.
02-15-16, 08:50 AM
#13
it has about the same wheelbase, but it is actually longer than 2016 Sportage... it is Rav4 size lenght wise. Quite possibly that went into bumpers if you are not seeing the difference live. But the numbers are out, and they are of course specific.
All of the competitors you listed are actually half size smaller than Sportage, they are B class based SUVs, while Sportage is C class based SUV and Niro is larger than that, same as Rav4 and CRV.
So Niro is Rav4 hybrid in size, Sportage is same wheelbase but 200mm smaller lenght and 500x is another 200mm smaller.
C-HR is Sportage sized for instance.
Hows the trunk compared to Rav4, i guess you had a chance to sit in it?
Overall, hybrid SUV is a very nice addition, excellent really, I just think 2016 Sportage is nicer in every way I can see so far.
All of the competitors you listed are actually half size smaller than Sportage, they are B class based SUVs, while Sportage is C class based SUV and Niro is larger than that, same as Rav4 and CRV.
So Niro is Rav4 hybrid in size, Sportage is same wheelbase but 200mm smaller lenght and 500x is another 200mm smaller.
C-HR is Sportage sized for instance.
Hows the trunk compared to Rav4, i guess you had a chance to sit in it?
Overall, hybrid SUV is a very nice addition, excellent really, I just think 2016 Sportage is nicer in every way I can see so far.
Please tell me where you're seeing the dimensions for the Production Kia Niro, and why you think it's RAV4 sized. It is absolutely NOT larger than the Sportage. And it is smaller than the RAV4. I don't believe Kia has released specifications. Not sure how reliable this site is, but the dimensions noted here seem correct, and place Niro along the lines of HR-V, etc. http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/d...arID=25865&i=2
This review notes that the Niro is indeed SMALLER than Sportage http://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/kia/kia-nero-review/
The competitors I listed are the competitors that the Niro will go up against, as well as other dedicated hybrids like Prius/C-Max/etc.
No doubt the newest Sportage is nice, but the Niro provides a smaller package, and impressive economy for those looking for it.
02-15-16, 09:38 AM
#14
Please tell me where you're seeing the dimensions for the Production Kia Niro, and why you think it's RAV4 sized. It is absolutely NOT larger than the Sportage. And it is smaller than the RAV4. I don't believe Kia has released specifications. Not sure how reliable this site is, but the dimensions noted here seem correct, and place Niro along the lines of HR-V, etc. http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/d...arID=25865&i=2
This review notes that the Niro is indeed SMALLER than Sportage http://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/kia/kia-nero-review/
.
The competitors I listed are the competitors that the Niro will go up against, as well as other dedicated hybrids like Prius/C-Max/etc.
No doubt the newest Sportage is nice, but the Niro provides a smaller package, and impressive economy for those looking for it.
This review notes that the Niro is indeed SMALLER than Sportage http://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/kia/kia-nero-review/
.
The competitors I listed are the competitors that the Niro will go up against, as well as other dedicated hybrids like Prius/C-Max/etc.
No doubt the newest Sportage is nice, but the Niro provides a smaller package, and impressive economy for those looking for it.
so now it is smaller than Sportage with same wheelbase? Hows that a good thing? Unless it is going to be less expensive than Sportage, which i doubt due to powertrain... they should have made it larger so it justifies bigger price than Sportage.
01-25-17, 03:42 PM
#15
Kia has announced pricing, starting at $22,890 (sans destination) $23,785 with. Fuel Economy for the top efficient model is 52 city / 49 highway, 50 combined. That gets you alloy wheels, keyless entry, 7 inch display with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, backup cam. There will also be LX, EX and Touring. Top Touring Model gets 18" alloy wheels, but drops economy from 50 combined to 43.
http://www.kia.com/us/en/vehicle/niro/2017
I still think this is a handsome little rig, good backseat space, and good fuel economy. Not as high as the Hyundai Ioniq cousin, but it has CUV styling cues that will likely help broaden appeal.
http://www.kia.com/us/en/vehicle/niro/2017
I still think this is a handsome little rig, good backseat space, and good fuel economy. Not as high as the Hyundai Ioniq cousin, but it has CUV styling cues that will likely help broaden appeal.