At last month’s Chicago Auto Show, Kia unveiled the first in a lineup of vehicles designed to usher in a no-comprise era of green driving with the 2017 Kia Niro.
The 2017 Niro HUV (Hybrid Utility Vehicle) is unwavering in its approach to greener transportation. Similar vehicles make concessions in terms of performance and efficiency, but the Niro deftly blends the best of both, while also promoting eye-catching design and functional utility.
In fact, design played a key role in the Niro’s development, a point Orth Hedrick, vice president product planning KMA, was sure to highlight during its unveiling.
“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.’ 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.”
Of course the Niro is designed to be more than mere eye-candy. Lurking underneath its attractive hood is an all-new 103-horsepower Kappa 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine, running on the ultra-efficient Atkinson cycle, combine with a newly developed, second-generation six-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to the front wheels.
The new engine also features a 43-hp tractive electric motor that delivers its own torque and can propel the Niro on its own in some driving conditions. It’s powered by a 1.6-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery located under the rear seat.
Combined power output for the electric motor and engine is 146 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. Despite a robust power output, the Niro maximizes fuel economy, reduces emissions, and targets a combined fuel efficiency of 50 mpg.
Naturally, a vehicle with the Niro’s style and sophistication should also feature a laundry list of technologies. Like the rest of Kia’s lineup, the Niro will be offered with a suite of advanced driver assistance and convenience technologies, including Kia’s all-new Eco-DAS (Driver Assistance System) to ensure driver safety and comfort at every turn.
The Kia Niro will also feature newest version of Kia’s award-winning infotainment and telematics system, UVO3, complete with Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, and the very latest UVO eServices.
The 2017 Kia Niro is shaping up to be a strong, confident entry into the dedicated hybrid space. It features all the benefits of a hybrid vehicle, namely better fuel efficiency, but without the unpleasant design often associate with that vehicle type.
3Birds Template will have more details regarding pricing, features, and specifications closer to the Niro’s launch which is scheduled for late 2016.
Until then, contact or visit our dealership and check out our current lineup of Kia vehicles.
Image: Kia
