The South Korean automaker’s first dedicated hybrid vehicle is based on a new eco-car platform that will underpin more future green Kia models. It’s a sub-compact CUV positioned between hybrid-electric vehicle and crossover utility vehicle segments.
The Kia Niro measures 4,355 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, 1,535 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,700 mm. The Niro’s hybrid system consists of a 1.6-litre Kappa GDI in-line four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 105 PS and 147 Nm of torque and an electric motor that generates 44 PS and 170 Nm of torque.
The electric motor gets its juice from a 1.56 kWh Lithium-ion battery, and both sources (electric motor and combustion engine) together produce 141 PS. Power is sent to the wheels via a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The performance figures and fuel economy are yet to be announced, but Kia is targeting a CO2 emissions rating of 89 g/km in the European test cycle. The Kia Niro is manufactured in Hwasung, South Korea. It will go on sale in Europe in Q3 2016 and sometime later this year in China.
