Kia Niro Hybrid has underwent a mid-cycle refresh, emerging with updated
styling and new technology features at the 2019 Los Angles Auto Show. Compared to the
outgoing model, the new one has redesigned front and rear bumpers, wider skid
plates, LED DRLs, LED taillights and new 16- and 18-inch wheels.
The 7-inch instrument cluster has been
restyled for the 2020MY and an 8-inch infotainment system equips base models.
Upgrade, and you will get the 10.25-inch screen, as well as the Harman/Kardon
premium sound system and mood lighting with six different colors, while an
electronic parking brake, paddle shifters and regenerative braking control are available
as optional extras.
Enhancing the suite of safety systems are
the optional Lane Following Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and High Beam Assist. The powertrain carries
over with no changes and combines a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with an electric
motor and a 1.56 kWh lithium-ion-polymer battery. The total output is 139 HP at 5,700 rpm and 264 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm
and, on 16-inch wheels, it returns an EPA-estimated 52/49/50 mpg (4.5/4.8/4.7
l/100 km) in city/highway/combined.
Kia will launch the facelifted Niro Hybrid
early next year, with pricing to be announced in due course. The 2019MY has an
MSRP of US$ 23,490. Moreover, the 2020 Niro PHEV will get identical updates,
according to the Korean automaker, and will go on sale in early 2020 as well.
