Kia Niro petrol-electric hybrid revealed

Korean automaker Kia has revealed an all-new hybrid SUV in the form of the Niro. Based on an all-new hybrid-specific platform developed with Hyundai, Kia has billed the model as a ‘Hybrid Utility Vehicle’, which means it combines crossover looks with hybrid technology.

A part of the company's plan to develop 11 hybrids by the end of the decade, the Niro is powered by a 102bhp, 1.6-litre Atkinson cycle engine paired to a gearbox-mounted 42bhp electric motor. The engine comes equipped with exhaust gas recirculation, direct-injection and what the company calls a 'long-stroke-narrow-bore specification'. There's also a exhaust heat recovery system that uses a heat exchanger in the exhaust system to help warm up the engine.

The electric motor is paired to a 1.56kWh lithium-ion polymer battery stored under the rear seats. Working in tandem, the petrol-electric hybrid powertrain develops 144bhp and 26.96kgm of torque. Power is channelled to the wheels via a six-speed, dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

In terms of design, the Kia gets a wide stance along with a long wheelbase and short overhangs to help maximise interior space. Exterior styling elements of the SUV include body cladding, the company’s signature grille, aggressively shaped headlights, flared wheel arches, roof rails and a rear skid plate.

The minimalist design of the cabin is in line with many modern hybrids. The Niro comes with the newest version of Kia’s infotainment system with a 7.0-inch touchscreen display.

To curtail noise, vibration and harshness, the Niro is fitted with specially designed engine mounts, equal-length driveshafts, and a damper inside the steering wheel hub. Other NVH measures include a special embossed foam under the carpet, and a dense insulating pad under the bonnet.
Besides giving the 12V battery a miss, Kia has also used high-strength steel, aluminium and light-weight seat frames to keep the crossover’s weight in check.

The Niro is also equipped with a host of safety and driver-assistance functions such as blind spot detection, cruise control, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking and a predictive energy control system that uses the cruise control and GPS to automatically adjust power output, determine when to charge the battery and when to use the battery charge.

The Niro will rival the likes of the Toyota Prius in international markets. Kia is also expected to develop a plug-in hybrid variant of the Niro, but at a later stage.