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Kia has ensured that the Niro gets a remarkable 5-star safety rating
Safety – Kia cars have a great track record of safety and the Niro is no different. You get a host of active and passive safety equipment like tyre pressure monitoring system, hill hold assist, ESP, ABS and 7 airbags. The Niro has also scored an impressive 5-star rating (with safety pack) at Euro NCAP making it as safe as you’d expect a car from this segment to be.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/46910784884/[/flickr]
The Niro might offer tough competition if launched in India
Verdict – Kia may or may not launch the Niro in India but it gives enough insight into what we can expect in the premium and hybrid crossover segment from this Korean car brand. The Niro comes across as being a smart, comfortable, well-built, decent performing and dynamically competent SUV. There is nothing exciting about it but the Niro creates a positive first impression. Given our perennial love for SUVs and the steady inclination towards electrification, we think Kia is ready to conquer our market.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/32692551837/[/flickr]
The steering wheel has a lot of buttons and feels good to hold
What’s Cool
* Handsome and understated looks
* Spacious and feature-loaded interiors
* Efficient and punchy hybrid powertrain
* Comes with a 5-star safety rating
What’s Not So Cool
* Design is not that intimidating
* Infotainment system feels dated
* Rear seats should offer more space
Alternatives: – Hyundai Creta, Nissan Kicks, Renault Captur, Maruti S-Cross
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/40668595623/[/flickr]
The hybrid powertrain is quite impressive
Kia Niro Specifications
* Engine: 1580cc, 4-Cyl, Petrol, 8.9 kWh Electric Motor
* Power: 104 HP @ 5700 RPM (Petrol Engine), 60 HP @ 4000 RPM (Electric Motor)
* Torque: 147 Nm @ 4000 RPM (Petrol Engine) | 264 Nm @ 1750 RPM (Combined)
* Transmission: 6-Speed DCT
* Fuel Consumption: 11-15 km/l
* Fuel Type: Petrol
* Tyre Size: 205/60/16 (Front & Rear)
* Suspension: McPherson Strut (Front), Multi Link (Rear)
* Brakes: Disc (Front & Rear)
* Safety: 9 Airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP
Kia Niro Dimensions
* Overall length x width x height: 4355 mm X 1805 mm X 1535 mm
* Wheelbase: 2700 mm
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 43-litres
* Kerb Weight: 1594 kgs
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/32692552577/[/flickr]
Would you opt for a hybrid crossover?
[wp-review id=”235559″]
