Kia has gone bold with the appearance of the new five-seater Niro to ensure it remains one of Europe’s go-to crossovers in the face of even stiffer competition.
Completely reimagined from the ground up, and incorporating styling aspects from the 2019 HabaNiro concept, the Ford Puma and Toyota CH-R rival is currently being readied for its launch in early 2022.
It adopts that quirky car’s eye-catching two-tone paint scheme, off-road-inspired design cues and the latest interpretation of Kia’s signature ‘tiger nose’ grille which has been slimmed down and stretched.
Available as a mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure EV, the Niro’s shape is intentionally streamlined to give it the best efficiency credentials, says Kia. The company points to the sizeable C-pillar and how it incorporates the boomerang-shaped rear light clusters to create a more streamlined profile.
A trick feature called ‘Greenzone Drive’ puts the vehicle into electric mode when driving in areas such as congestion zones, outside schools and hospitals based on data taken from the satellite navigation.
Sustainability is another driving force behind the latest Niro with recycled materials widely used in the interior’s construction. The headlining, for instance, is made from recycled wallpaper and water-based paint that is free of harmful chemicals is being used on the door panels.
The off-centre dash is a mirror image of the new fully-electric EV6 crossover and a world away from the outgoing layout found in the current Niro. An expansive digital display, and electronic gearshift dial, ambient mood lighting and slim front seats are just some of the stand-out aspects.
“Kia continues to take steps towards a more sustainable future,” said Ho Sung Song, the President and CEO of Kia. “The all-new Kia Niro makes it simple to practice a sustainable lifestyle with its eco-friendly materials, advanced technology and electric powertrains while fulfilling the practical needs of customers.”
