Kia Niro hybrid CUV teased again ahead of Chicago debut
Mon, Jan 11 2016
The Niro is part of Kia's push to create a greener lineup through 2020, and the model packs a dedicated hybrid powertrain. Earlier reports suggest that it consists of a 1.6-liter four-cylinder and 47-horsepower electric motor with a 1.56-kWh battery. A six-speed dual-clutch gearbox will likely put the power to the road.
Kia's styling centers in California and Namyang, South Korea, are responsible for the Niro's look. The designers use a narrow version of the company's tiger-nose grille for this CUV, but the high-mounted headlights create a clear family resemblance to the latest Sportage. The roofline appears to have a coupe-like arch, and the rear gets nearly rectangular taillights that angle into the hatch.
If the Niro name sounds familiar, that's because Kia first used it on a slightly bulbous crossover concept at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. You'll have to wait a month for all the details, but until then, enjoy the teasers and press release below.
KIA REVEALS FIRST IMAGES OF ALL-NEW NIRO HYBRID UTILITY VEHICLE
Kia reveals first images of all-new Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle
Exclusive first images of Niro HUV illustrates sporty and versatile design
Niro HUV world premiere set for Chicago Auto Show in February 2016
Dedicated hybrid powertrain specifically developed for all-new model
(SEOUL) January 12, 2016 – Kia has today unveiled the first official images of the sporty and versatile Niro – an all-new Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) that's set to add a fresh dimension to the global compact SUV market.
The styling of the Niro was led by Kia's design centers in California, USA and Namyang, Korea and incorporates the practicality and aesthetic allure of a compact SUV, with a sleek, aerodynamic body and subtly sculptured surfaces.
Highlighting the raised rear haunches that endow the HUV with an athletic stance, the image also reveals high-mounted LED taillights that complement an uncluttered rear end. The slim character line and rear windows emphasize the car's sleek profile, while allowing greater room for the Niro's muscular wheel arches.
The all-new Kia Niro is the first model to be based on Kia's new dedicated eco-car platform, and the HUV is set to achieve a sub-90 g/km CO2 emissions rating (combined, based on the New European Driving Cycle) thanks to its all-new downsized gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.
The Niro HUV will be unveiled to the world for the first time at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show in February, and will demonstrate the considerable steps the brand has made in delivering comfortable, fun-to-drive vehicles that lead the way in low-emission motoring.
About Kia Motors Corporation
Kia Motors Corporation (www.kia.com) – a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart – was founded in 1944 and is Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Over 3 million Kia vehicles a year are produced in 10 manufacturing and assembly operations in five countries which are then sold and serviced through a network of distributors and dealers covering around 180 countries. Kia today has around 49,000 employees worldwide and annual revenues of nearly US$45 billion. It is the major sponsor of the Australian Open and an official automotive partner of FIFA – the governing body of the FIFA World Cup™. Kia Motors Corporation's brand slogan – "The Power to Surprise" – represents the company's global commitment to surprise the world by providing exciting and inspiring experiences that go beyond expectations.
For more information about Kia Motors and our products, please visit our Global Media Center at www.kianewscenter.com.
Kia reveals first images of all-new Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle
Exclusive first images of Niro HUV illustrates sporty and versatile design
Niro HUV world premiere set for Chicago Auto Show in February 2016
Dedicated hybrid powertrain specifically developed for all-new model
(SEOUL) January 12, 2016 – Kia has today unveiled the first official images of the sporty and versatile Niro – an all-new Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) that's set to add a fresh dimension to the global compact SUV market.
The styling of the Niro was led by Kia's design centers in California, USA and Namyang, Korea and incorporates the practicality and aesthetic allure of a compact SUV, with a sleek, aerodynamic body and subtly sculptured surfaces.
Highlighting the raised rear haunches that endow the HUV with an athletic stance, the image also reveals high-mounted LED taillights that complement an uncluttered rear end. The slim character line and rear windows emphasize the car's sleek profile, while allowing greater room for the Niro's muscular wheel arches.
The all-new Kia Niro is the first model to be based on Kia's new dedicated eco-car platform, and the HUV is set to achieve a sub-90 g/km CO2 emissions rating (combined, based on the New European Driving Cycle) thanks to its all-new downsized gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.
The Niro HUV will be unveiled to the world for the first time at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show in February, and will demonstrate the considerable steps the brand has made in delivering comfortable, fun-to-drive vehicles that lead the way in low-emission motoring.
About Kia Motors Corporation
Kia Motors Corporation (www.kia.com) – a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart – was founded in 1944 and is Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Over 3 million Kia vehicles a year are produced in 10 manufacturing and assembly operations in five countries which are then sold and serviced through a network of distributors and dealers covering around 180 countries. Kia today has around 49,000 employees worldwide and annual revenues of nearly US$45 billion. It is the major sponsor of the Australian Open and an official automotive partner of FIFA – the governing body of the FIFA World Cup™. Kia Motors Corporation's brand slogan – "The Power to Surprise" – represents the company's global commitment to surprise the world by providing exciting and inspiring experiences that go beyond expectations.
For more information about Kia Motors and our products, please visit our Global Media Center at www.kianewscenter.com.
By Chris Bruce
See also: Kia Telluride Concept is a 400-hp hybrid based on Sorento SUV [w/video], Kia rolls out updated Forte, Forte5 for 2017, Kia's Detroit concept is called Telluride.