The new Kia Niro 2022 swaps its platform to improve its performance Car News

The second-generation Kia Niro, which will be offered with hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains, has been “redesigned from the ground up” to face growing competition, according to firm bosses.

With styling inspired by the HabaNiro concept car, the new machine – which was first unveiled late last year – will go on sale in the UK later this month, with first deliveries scheduled for July. The electric version should arrive around August.

While the Niro builds on the styling of its predecessor, it’s actually built on a new platform from the Hyundai Motor Group. While the first generation Kia Niro used the J Eco-Car architecture, the new model is the first Kia to sit on the new K3 platform currently used by the Elantra sedan. This platform is designed for electrified powertrains.

The platform switch means the Niro has grown slightly: it’s 65mm longer, with a wheelbase increased by 20mm to slightly increase interior space.

The hybrid version will use a 1.6-liter gasoline engine mated to a 43 hp electric motor, giving a total output of 139 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque. The plug-in hybrid features the same engine paired with a more powerful 83kW electric motor, bringing power up to 180hp. The PHEV’s electric motor is powered by an 11.1 kWh battery – up from 8.9 kWh in the older model – providing an extended range of 40.3 miles for EVs alone.

Both the hybrid and the PHEV are powered by a six-speed automatic gearbox, with reverse in both now powered solely by electric power. They can be paired with a Kia smartphone app and configured to operate in EV mode in defined “green zones” and restricted areas. The PHEV model also features an integrated 5.5kWh positive temperature coefficient heater, which helps extend driving range in colder conditions and means owners can use a vehicle-like preheating system. electric.

The Niro EV – which has been modified from the e-Niro to bring it in line with other Kia models – retains the same 201hp electric motor as the previous model. The larger 64.8kWh battery will be the only option offered in the UK, offering a range of around 287 miles. It offers a 0-62 mph time of 7.8 seconds, 188 lb-ft of torque and can charge from 10-80% in 43 minutes on a DC charger.