2024 Kia Niro Hybrid First Drive Review: Stylish and Frugal City Companion
The 2024 Kia Niro Hybrid has been completely redesigned, and it brings heaps of style and tech to the affordable hybrid SUV segment. With an eye-catching design inside and out, the new Niro makes a strong first impression. But does its substance match its fashionable looks?
Crisp New Styling Inside and Out
The Niro's exterior design is a huge departure from the rather bland previous generation. Kia's latest design language gives the Niro a bold face with sleek LED lighting elements. The crossover's profile has a rakish look with a sloping roofline. Around back, boomerang-shaped taillights and cladding on the rear bumper give it an SUV-like stance. Our top-trim SX Touring tester wore attractive two-tone paint with a black roof.
The interior styling is just as fresh, with an attractive and modern design. Sustainable materials like eucalyptus wood and recycled plastics give the Niro's cabin an upscale, eco-friendly vibe. The rotary shift dial and large digital displays help create a high-tech ambiance. Passenger space is tight for a compact SUV, however, with compromised rear legroom.
The standard Niro Hybrid uses a 139-horsepower hybrid system consisting of a 1.6-liter four-cylinder and electric motor. This setup returns impressive EPA estimates of up to 53 mpg city and 54 mpg highway. However, acceleration is quite lethargic with a 0-60 mph time of 8.9 seconds in our testing.
For more gusto, the Niro PHEV plug-in hybrid has a more potent 180 hp powertrain and can travel up to 33 miles on electric power alone. With a 7.3-second 0-60 mph time, it provides much peppier performance.
Both Niro models have a composed ride and easy drivability well-suited for urban environments. The steering is light but reasonably precise, making it a cinch to park and maneuver. However, handling is far from sporty.
The Right Choice for City Living
While not the most thrilling vehicle, the 2024 Kia Niro Hybrid is a smart pick for urban dwellers looking to maximize fuel efficiency in a stylish, right-sized, and well-equipped package. With a starting price around $28,000, the value proposition is strong as well. Just don't expect much driving excitement.
Between the regular hybrid's excellent fuel economy ratings and the PHEV's electric driving ability, the new Niro covers the bases for city-based buyers seeking an affordable and efficient compact crossover.
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