Kia to launch hybrid Niro
The Kia Niro will offer the practicality and kerbside appeal of a spacious crossover, together with the high-fuel efficiency of an advanced, hybrid powertrain. Engineered from the ground up as a dedicated hybrid vehicle, its attractive, modern design will help the car stand out among conservatively-styled hybrid rivals.
The Niro’s all-new platform has been engineered in isolation from existing Kia models, and is designed to accommodate a specific set of environmentally-conscious technologies and next-generation powertrains. The Niro’s hybrid powertrain — made up of a 1.6-litre, GDI (gasoline direct injection) engine, lithium-ion polymer battery pack, 32 kW electric motor and six-speed double-clutch transmission — is under development. Kia’s engineers are targeting CO2 emissions of 89 g/km.
Michael Cole, chief operating officer, Kia Motors Europe, said: “The Kia Niro will offer buyers a compelling blend of crossover practicality with the cool, modern styling for which Kia is famous, and an efficient, new hybrid powertrain to keep running costs down. The Niro fills a gap in the market for a crossover with typically low hybrid emissions, and will appeal to a broad range of European buyers.”
We will have details of prices and specifications in due course.
