Kia Niro
Kia Niro
Kia Niro

2019 Kia Niro

Pros: Hybrid fuel efficiency; crossover versatility; less expensive than Prius v

Cons: All-wheel-drive is not available; fuel economy of Touring models is significantly lower than base models

CG Says: The 2019 Kia Niro is essentially unchanged. Niro is a compact crossover SUV that comes as a gas/electric hybrid or a plug-in gas/electric hybrid. Niro does not offer a conventional gas-powered version. Unlike most SUVs, the Niro is offered only with front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is not available. The lone powertrain is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor for a combined 139 horsepower. A six-speed automated-manual is the only transmission. The plug-in hybrid has an estimated 26-miles of all-electric range. Available safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Keyless access and starting, heated/ventilated front seats, and heated steering wheel are among the available comfort features. An Eco-DAS (Driver Assistance System) helps achieve maximum fuel economy. A coasting guide tells the driver the best times to coast and brake, while Predictive Energy Control anticipates topographical changes to road ahead to optimize hybrid efficiency. The Kia Niro offers hybrid fuel efficiency and SUV practicality in a stylish package. It should appeal to environmentally conscious buyers who want good fuel economy in a vehicle with good interior room that doesn’t scream “hybrid.”

The Facts
Class Compact SUV
Body Style(s) 4-door wagon
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Kia
Nation of Manufacture South Korea
Base Prices FE: $24,430
LX: 24,740$
EX: $27,240
S Touring: $29,640
Touring: $33,090
Plug-in Hybrid LX: $29,140
Plug-in Hybrid EX: $32,740
Plug-in Hybrid EX Premium: $35,840

Base Engine
1.6-liter 4-cylinder/electric
Horsepower
139
Std. Transmission
6-speed automated manual
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
46-52
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
40-49

Optional Engine
1.6-liter 4-cylinder/electric (Plug-in Hybrid)
Horsepower
139
Std. Transmission
6-speed automated manual
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA Gas Engine Combined (mpg)
46
EPA Electric Engine Combined (MPGe)
105

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