Kia's current affairs include the numerous awards received for its new EV6 and EV9 and also its good sales figures in Europe and Spain. In this way, in 2023, Kia has repeated as the second best-selling brand in our market. Everything, waiting for the arrival of the new EV5 in 2025.
But Kia's commitment to electrified mobility now covers its entire range, using different technologies. And a good example of this is the Niro.
The truth is that cars like the Kia Niro are contributing decisively to the normalization, and full integration into society, of the electrified or directly electric automobile.
With a design evolution that makes it a truly attractive car, the Niro offers a technological offer almost unique in its category: it has a 100% electric version (EV), conventional hybrid (HEV) and also plug-in hybrid (PHEV), with a electric autonomy of 65 km.
On the other hand, the Kia Niro plays an interesting role in the Korean manufacturer's range. More affordable than the brand new EV6 and EV9, even than the Sportage, it is available from 28,661 euros (1.6 HEV Concept) or for 165 euros per month with an entry of 9,551 euros.
Of the entire current Niro range, the electric version is undoubtedly the most efficient. Not in vain, it has excellent qualities to be used every day. For urban and interurban trips, to take the children to school or to go to work. It's really versatile.
And thanks to its 204 HP electric motor, it also moves easily on the road. We are talking about a pure electric compact SUV measuring 4.42 meters in length, with a 64.8 kWh battery and an approved range of 460 km.
“The new e-Niro facilitates a sustainable lifestyle, thanks to its ecological materials, its advanced technology and its electric propulsion system, while meeting the practical needs of customers.” This is Kia's definition of his model.
The fact is that once you have had the opportunity to drive it, as its owners claim, it fulfills extremely well the idea of a vehicle that helps lead a life that is much more respectful of the environment.
Thus, the e-Niro allows the battery to be used to charge other devices, both inside and outside the vehicle. We can use the battery, up to 3 kW, to recharge our smartphone, a tablet, an electric bicycle or any other device that needs electricity.
And its 204 HP electric motor allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 167 km/h. On the other hand, the aerodynamic coefficient, of only 0.29, is decisive in achieving a completely valid range for traveling. In addition, it has a towing capacity of 750 kg.
It is interesting to see that, in an urban environment, with frequent driving around the city, the autonomy increases and a weekly charge will be sufficient. This is then another great advantage of the 100% electric version of the Niro.
Behind the wheel, the silence and smoothness with which everything happens is surprising. The cabin insulation is really good; A truly comfortable and silent car.
On the steering wheel we find a button to activate the Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes with the left thumb. And behind the steering wheel, we have the paddles to activate the different retention modes: with the left we increase the retention and with the right we reduce it. It is easy and intuitive to use
With maximum hold mode, releasing the accelerator pedal brings the car to a quick stop. This function is very practical in the city, since we will hardly have to brake and, in addition, we will recover energy.
And with the Sport mode activated, the throttle management changes completely, and the 204 HP appear suddenly when accelerating decisively. Likewise, the battery can be recharged in 45 minutes, from 0 to 80%, at a charging point that operates at 80 kW. On an 11 kW charger it will take about 6 hours
Inspired by nature, the interior materials and finishes aim to strike a balance between an environmentally responsible approach and a future-oriented image.
The headliner, for example, is made from recycled wallpaper and the seats are made from bio-based polyurethane with Tencel fibers from eucalyptus leaves.
A water-based paint that does not contain isomers of benzene, toluene or xylene is used on the door panels. In this way, the environmental impact is minimized and waste is reduced.
The driver has a large curved screen that integrates the instrument panel and a multimedia screen. Both 10.25 inches, configurable and with very good resolution. It has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technologies with wireless connection.
And it has features and technologies that help keep us up to date and fully connected. Thanks to the Bluetooth connection, we will not miss a call and we will be able to enjoy our music. In addition, we can access the connectivity center and manage personal connectivity options, from Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
On the road, Kia's connectivity services work with TomTom LIVE services. Information about the speed limit, weather or traffic appears on the car's dashboard.
The e-Niro is available with a single 64.8 kWh battery option, front-wheel drive and the aforementioned 204 HP engine. It is offered with Concept, Drive and Emotion trim levels. It is always advisable to check the price at an official dealer and find out about discounts, official aid and promotions.
Standard equipment includes active cruise control, rear traffic assistant, rear camera, traffic sign recognition system, keyless entry and start or involuntary lane change alert.
Finally, with the intention of improving the user experience on the path to electrification, Kia has established 10 commitments, including a model change guarantee, courtesy car, 7-year warranty, agreements for the installation of service points. charging at the customer's home and Premium assistance.
