The second-generation Kia Niro was introduced in November 2021, however we were only afforded a mere glimpse into Kia’s new EV and PHEV model – no technical details were released.
In January, we were given just that, but only for the PHEV, but now the Korean manufacturer has divulged details on both the plug-in hybrid and the pure EV.
The PHEV will make use of the same 1,6-litre petrol motor as the HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) and in both models, the motor is linked to. anew dual-clutch, six-speed automatic transmission which is now 2,3 kg lighter than before. This comes as a result of removing the reverse gear, the duties of which are now carried out by the vehicle’s electric powertrain.
In terms of the motor, the Niro PHEV will now have a 62 kW motor which replaces the HEV’s 32 kW unit. As a result, output is increased from 102 kW to 134 kW.
The Niro PHEV now features a 11,1 kWh battery pack as opposed to the HEV’s 8,9 kWh battery pack which will now allow for a 65 km electric-only range as per WLTP.
As for the Niro EV, 147 kW/255 N.m is available immediately, enough for a 0-100 km/h time of 7,8 seconds and a top speed just shy of 170 km/h. a 64,8 kWh battery provides the power and a full charge should be good for around 463 km (WLTP). With the use of a rapid DC charger, the battery should be able to go from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 43 minutes. Bidirectional charging will be available, too, but only for devices (as opposed to back to the grid) and at a glacial speed of 3 kWh.
The Niro EV has a front (front-boot) and a rear cargo area of 475-litres, good for a total of 495-litres of luggage space. The Niro PHEV makes do with a still not-too-shabby 348-litres.
The Niro is due to go on sale in Europe in the coming months and while there’s no word yet on the specific model’s availability in South Africa, Kia are looking into the viability of introducing their hybrid and electric models to the local market.
