Will The 2020 Kia Niro EV Be Better?
Wow, Kia has been very busy. They recently released the Telluride, have the 2021 Kia Sorento coming out, they are working on the new Kia Seltos, and much more. Another exciting project they are working on includes the release of the 2020 Kia Niro.
The 2020 Kia Niro Hybrid Is Coming
The Kia Niro has been an interesting experiment since it was initially released in 2017. It feels like the model that Kia used to practice with and to focus on hybrid and electric cars. In fact, the Niro may have paved the way for the upcoming hybrid Kia Sorento.
Kia Niro EV
Previous Kia Niro models have been hybrids, and Kia even released an electric plug in version in the U.K. in 2018.
This little SUV has always received great reviews as a spacious compact model with excellent fuel-efficiency, a smooth ride, and excellent handling. It’s actually ranked #7 on for the best hybrid and electric SUVs by the U.S. news.
This being said, it seems like the Kia Niro has always been good, but not great. So, will the 2020 Kia Niro Hybrid be better?
What To Expect With The 2020 Kia Niro
When the Kia Nira is released later this spring, it will be reasonably priced around $24k, making it an extremely affordable hybrid option. The Kia Niro will also provide savings at the pump with an estimated 52 mpg.
The Niro EV’s electric range is also pretty impressive, with the ability to get 239 miles on a single charge. This is much further than the Kia Soul EV’s 100-mile range and on par with the Nissan Leaf’s 216-mile range.
But does the Kia Niro have power? It does have a little bit, at least. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and electric motor combine to produce 139 horsepower, and the Niro FE can go from 0 to 60 in 8.6 seconds. This isn’t terrible.
The EV is weighed down by an extra 168 pounds of equipment, so it’s a little slower and takes 9.6 seconds to reach 60 mph.
While the Niro EV’s battery hasn’t been thoroughly tested, Kia is claiming that it’s D.C. fast charging capabilities can fill 80% of the battery in 75 minutes.
The Kia Niro’s redesign includes a new, slimmer diamond-patterned grille, new headlights, new day time running LED headlights, and new 16” or 18” wheels. The 16” wheels will provide a smooth ride in the city, and the 18” wheels will be better on uneven country roads.
The Kia Niro also has new optional paddle shifters to assist with its intense regenerative braking to give drivers more control.
The Kia Niro | Sjoerd van der Wal/Getty Images
However, one of the most exciting upgrades includes the Niros 54.8 cubic feet of cargo space. There is a serious amount of space inside this compact SUV. The second row of seats even has space for folding armrests to increase comfort.
This extra space comes with an 8” infotainment center or optional 10” one with all-new graphics. It can be paired with your smartphone, Alexis, and Google assistant for remote features. Start your Niro with the tap of the app on your phone and take the city by storm.
