2024 and 2025 New SUV Models Redesign, Concept, Changes, Prices and Releases: Read about best SUV models for 2018 and 2019 model year. Here you can find all info about new crossover SUVs.
The Korean carmaker comes with a completely new model in its lineup, 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid. This is a completely new version of a familiar crossover. The company expands the lineup of the original hybrid model with the new plug-in hybrid version. Also, an all-electric version is expected to come soon.
Kia started with big ambition its famous plan to improve overall fuel economy by 25 percent between 2014 and 2020. So, it is no wonder that there are many new electrified models in the lineup. This manufacturer cares a lot about the environment and they are constantly expanding the offer of hybrid and electric cars. This particular crossover is present since 2016. With the new powertrain, we expect to see even better sales number. The 2018 Niro Plug-In Hybrid comes with a familiar combination of gasoline and electric units but gets a new, bigger battery for this occasion.
2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid design
The 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid comes as a new version of the crossover that originally came a year ago. So, except the new powertrain, it is hard to expect something more. There is a familiar exterior design, which is in a classic small-SUV manner. It follows the brand’s latest design philosophy, but just like every small SUV, it comes with a lot of plastic surfaces, a little bit higher ground clearance and roof rails.
When it comes to the interior design, the 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid is amazing. This model features one of the finest cabins in the class, which is simple and elegant, and really gives that upscale feel with its hi-quality materials. It is classified as subcompact crossover, but it features pretty decent interior space. However, the large battery pack is positioned under the rear seats, so passengers at the back won’t feel too much comfortable.
2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid features
The 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid will be very well-equipped if we consider its size. Even lover trims will include standard features like keyless entry and push-button start, UVO3 infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, AM/FM/SiriusXM audio, a 7-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, Bluetooth phone connectivity, dual-zone automatic climate control etc.
Top-range models include even more amazing features. Some of those features are a moonroof and heated and ventilated leather front seats, a bigger 8-inch touchscreen, an 8-speaker audio system etc. The list of safety systems is quite impressive. There are things like blind-spot detection, lane-change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, smart cruise control, plus front and rear parking sensors.
2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid powertrain
This is a new version of the hybrid model that came last year. After the conventional hybrid powertrain, the company now introduces a new plug-in hybrid version. This model features a familiar combination of gasoline and electric sources of power. There is a familiar 1.6-liter gasoline unit with a max power of 104 horses and 109 pound-feet of torque, which comes in a combination with a 60-hp electric motor, which is also good for 125 pound-feet of torque. A combined output goes around 140 horses and 195 pound-feet of torque.
However, there is a completely new battery back. Instead of a small-capacity 1.6-kWh unit, the 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid gets a much bigger 8.9-kWh battery pack. The company didn’t announce exact numbers, but several reports suggest an all-electric range around 35 miles. When it comes to fuel economy, we expect around 50 mpg in a combined drive.
2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid release date and price
The new 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid is already present in some markets in Europe, while the North American version should come by the end of the year.
When it comes to price, the exact sum is still unknown. However, if we consider that the current hybrid model starts around 24.000 dollars, we can expect that the base plug-in hybrid version will cost few thousands more.
