THE next-generation Kia Niro crossover will be released as a hybrid model when it is launched later in the year.
The 1.6-litre petrol-electric powertrain develops a total power output of 141PS and the car has a six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.
The Korean marque says it has averaged some 49mpg under Korean testing regulations. And it promises plug-in and all-electric models will join the line-up later.
Bigger than the current model – it is more than two inches longer as well as being wider and taller – the new Niro is fitted with Kia’s Green Zone Drive Mode.
This automatically activates its electric-only drive operation of the car to ensure zero-emissions mobility in certain situations such as residential areas and near schools and hospitals.
The system activates using navigation and driving history data, while the driver can also set green zones into the navigation system to reduce pollution in areas such as near their home or workplace.
Boot space has also grown by 15 litres to 451 litres, which has been achieved by moving the 12-volt battery from the boot and positioning it alongside the hybrid’s high-voltage battery at the bottom of the rear seats.
The cabin has an entirely new look, with a curved dashboard and a 10.25in panoramic screen that flows into the instrument cluster to create one streamlined display.
Safety features include forward collision avoidance that is programmed for use at junctions as well as other situations, while a remote parking system enables drivers to move the car out of a front-and-back parking space using the key fob.
Other ADAS features include lane keeping assist, blind-spot collision-avoidance, driver attention warning, high beam assist, navigation-based smart cruise control and a semi-autonomous lane following system.
A 10in head-up display system will be available that displays key driving information including speed, ADAS data and navigation commands while a smartphone app allows users to connect with the car remotely.
Pricing details as well as information about the plug-in and battery electric versions are to be announced later.
