The quest for a daily driver that blends fuel efficiency with affordability is a never-ending one. This week, we delve into the 2024 Kia Niro hybrid compact SUV, a vehicle that might just be the answer for many. While the Niro has been on the scene since 2017, the latest iteration, launched last year, boasts increased dimensions – longer, wider, and taller than its predecessors, marking a significant evolution in its design and capabilities.
Kia offers the Niro in a spectrum of electrified powertrains: the standard hybrid we’re reviewing here, a plug-in hybrid variant, and a fully electric model. As expected, the conventional hybrid stands as the most accessible option in terms of price, exclusively available in front-wheel drive configuration.
Our test model is the SX Touring trim, the pinnacle of the six available hybrid levels. Let’s explore what makes this top-tier Niro a compelling choice in the competitive compact SUV market.
Striking Exterior Design
The 2024 Niro immediately grabs attention with its sharp and contemporary exterior aesthetics, especially in the captivating Mineral Blue hue. Blue is undeniably the color of the moment in automotive design, and this particular shade is exceptionally striking. A bold, wide black trim element runs along the vehicle’s lower perimeter, creating a visually appealing contrast against the blue bodywork between the front and rear wheels, adding a touch of ruggedness and visual intrigue.
Kia Niro Hybrid Exterior in Mineral Blue
A welcome change is the removal of the wide aero blade previously featured on some models’ sides towards the rear, resulting in a cleaner, more streamlined profile. The inclusion of attractive 18-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler significantly elevates the Niro’s overall cool factor, lending it a sporty and sophisticated stance.
Efficient Hybrid Powertrain
Under the hood, the Niro houses a 139-horsepower 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain, combining a 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor. A smooth-shifting six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission comes standard. While the horsepower figure might seem modest on paper, the Niro compensates with a robust 195 pound-feet of torque. Engaging Sport mode transforms the driving dynamics, providing surprising responsiveness and acceleration. Merging onto highways or navigating city traffic is effortlessly handled, dispelling any concerns about power inadequacy.
Modern and Eco-Conscious Interior
Stepping inside the Niro reveals an interior that prioritizes sustainability and minimalist design. The cabin predominantly utilizes recycled materials, resulting in a clean and uncluttered ambiance. The seats are upholstered in vegan leather, with seat centers crafted from eucalyptus leaves, showcasing Kia’s commitment to eco-friendly materials. A minor drawback is the extensive use of gloss black trim on the doors and center console in higher trims, which, while visually appealing when clean, tends to attract fingerprints and dust readily. Lower trims thankfully mitigate this issue.
Kia Niro Hybrid Interior View
The driver is greeted by a well-sized digital gauge cluster, offering customizable displays controlled via the steering wheel. Information such as battery charge level, gasoline range, current speed, posted speed limit, and a tachometer are readily available. The cluster also provides real-time feedback on the hybrid system’s operation, indicating whether the vehicle is running in hybrid mode, idle mode, or when the battery is being replenished.
Kia Niro Hybrid Digital Instrument Display
Steering wheel-mounted controls allow toggling between drive modes, offering Eco and Sport settings. Sport mode notably shifts the powertrain to prioritize gasoline engine power, delivering a marked increase in performance and a more engaging driving experience.
The center of the dashboard is dominated by a 10.25-inch digital touchscreen, serving as the command center for the 7-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system, which includes SiriusXM and HD Radio, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a range of features like Quiet Mode – a thoughtful function that mutes rear speakers, ideal for journeys with sleeping passengers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are integrated for seamless smartphone connectivity, though they are wired rather than wireless.
Kia Niro Hybrid Multimedia System Display
The center console is well-equipped with modern conveniences, featuring two USB-A ports, a USB-C port, a wireless phone charging pad, a traditional T-handle gear shifter, and physical buttons for frequently used functions like heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel, park assist, camera views, and auto hold – a particularly appreciated feature for added driving ease.
Rear passenger space is surprisingly generous for a compact SUV, providing ample headroom and legroom. Rear occupants also benefit from dedicated air conditioning vents and USB-C ports integrated into the front seatbacks. A fold-down armrest with integrated cupholders further enhances rear passenger comfort.
Kia Niro Hybrid Spacious Second Row Seating
Cargo capacity in the Niro is commendable, with a substantial luggage area and additional storage space beneath the cargo floor. For larger items, the rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo area to 63.7 cubic feet. The inclusion of a power liftgate is a premium touch, not always found in non-luxury compact SUVs. It’s worth noting that a tire repair kit is provided in place of a spare tire.
Generous Standard Features and Minimal Options
Our test Niro SX Touring arrived comprehensively equipped. Beyond the features already mentioned, standard equipment includes remote start, power-adjustable driver’s seat, a power sunroof, rearview camera, aluminum pedals, LED headlights and fog lights, dual-zone automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, and parking distance warning.
The options list is remarkably concise, limited to floor mats, a cargo mat, and a cargo cover for added security, collectively totaling a modest $390.
Comprehensive Safety Suite
Kia has prioritized safety in the Niro, equipping it with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. These include automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, forward collision avoidance, safe exit warning, rear cross traffic alert, and driver attention warning, providing a reassuring level of safety and peace of mind.
Refined Ride and Handling
The Kia Niro delivers a composed and enjoyable driving experience. Road noise is minimal, and the ride quality is notably smooth and controlled, avoiding the bounciness sometimes associated with smaller SUVs. The Niro feels planted and stable, inspiring confidence behind the wheel.
Impressive Fuel Economy and Real-World Value
The EPA estimates fuel economy at 53 MPG city, 45 MPG highway, and 49 MPG combined. While our real-world testing, conducted predominantly in Sport mode with spirited driving, didn’t quite match these figures, the Niro still demonstrated impressive efficiency. The 11-gallon fuel tank, combined with the hybrid powertrain, translates to a remarkable range exceeding 500 miles on a single tank, a significant advantage for minimizing fuel stops.
Verdict: An Outstanding Value Proposition
With an MSRP of $37,105 for the fully-loaded SX Touring trim as tested, the 2024 Kia Niro Hybrid presents itself as an exceptionally compelling value proposition in today’s market. Kia has truly created a standout hybrid SUV that excels in fuel efficiency, features, and overall practicality. The Niro Hybrid is a strong contender for anyone seeking a well-rounded, economical, and enjoyable compact SUV.
