Kia has revealed its second-generation Niro at the Seoul motor show, bringing a bolder design to this electrified crossover.

The Niro originally debuted in 2016 and was a very important car as it was one of the first to be sold with a range of electrified-only powertrains – a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV. Since then it has gone on to become one of the UK’s most popular cars, and regularly appears in the monthly list of best-sellers.

Though full powertrain details haven’t been revealed, Kia has confirmed the model will continue to be sold with the same trio of propulsion options, albeit likely with revised setups.

First previewed by the 2019 HabaNiro concept car, the production model features the same fancy LED headlights, along with the contrasting colour on the rear-quarter panel. The wide rear is also said to improve air flow, while blending into fancy boomerang-shaped rear lights.

Inside, the interior design broadly reflects that of Kia’s new EV6, with an off-centre dash curving around the front occupants. A large touchscreen and digital dials also appear to merge within a single panel – a feature that’s seen on models from BMW and Vauxhall too.

With Kia recently pledging to become carbon-neutral by 2045, the new Niro also shows off a range of sustainable measures that are likely to be seen more widely in the future. A range of recycled materials are used in the cabin, including a headlining made from repurposed wallpaper, chemical-free paint used on the door panels, and seats partly made from eucalyptus leaves.

The new Niro also introduces ‘Greenzone Driving Modes’, which are areas – such as residential streets and outside schools and hospitals – where the plug-in hybrid will automatically switch to electric driving to reduce pollution in these zones.

Further details about the new Niro are expected in the coming months, with first deliveries likely around the middle of the year.

Ted Welford
Ted Welford has been writing about cars for more than six years. Specalising in used cars, he'll often be founding searching through the marketplace for the best deals and used car bargains.
Article published November 30th, 2021