Starfinancer

MILAN – The new face of Kia is not just that of the redesigned logo of the Korean brand. Indeed, it is certainly also the one in the next Niro, ready for the launch of the second generation starting in September. If the official name has lost the Motors suffix along a road that leads to the obvious electrification of the range, the latest Kia has given up on the now characteristic tiger-face shaped air intake. The renewed image opens the door to a range that includes a 141 HP HEV hybrid version, a 183 HP PHEV plug-in hybrid and finally the all-electric variant, powered by a 150 kW (204 HP) engine which declares at least 450 km of autonomy.

The order register has the pages open already now, in view of a commercial launch scheduled for the first half of September. As with the previous generation, it will be the traditional hybrid HEV that will take the lion’s share in terms of requests, reaching 80% for the Niro in the last 6 years. The style is completely renewed, characterized by subtle daytime running lights with the lower ones drawn by taking up the heartbeat diagram.

Viewed from the side, the new Niro is distinguished by the cover of the third pillar of the bodywork, behind which the air slides, directed with accuracy to reduce drag. On board, the interiors appear well-shaped, with a horizontally developed dashboard and the use in massive doses of recycled materials as well for the upholstery of the seats. Do not miss the latest generation multimedia system of Kia, with easy connection of mobile phones. Finally, there is a rich supply of safety systems and driving assistance.

On the road we tried the first prototypes, which are appreciated for their ease of driving and the excellent level of comfort both with the hybrid HEV version and with the electric one. The new Niro hybrid moves smoothly thanks to a smooth delivery of the combined power of a 1.6-liter petrol and 32 kW electric engine. Performance is more than acceptable, with a top speed of 165 km / h and a time of 10 ”4 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km / h.

The contribution of the electric motor allows tangible fuel savings, with consumption averages easily around 6/7 liters per 100 km traveled, obviously if you do not exaggerate with the pressure on the accelerator pedal. The Niro HEV is in the price list starting from 30,500 euros. Even quieter and quicker responses from the engine can be appreciated, as usual, on the electric version, which accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in 7 ”8 and is sold at a list price starting at 42,700 euros.