New Kia Niro hybrid tech detailed

Kia has issued fresh details of the new-generation 2022 Kia Niro ahead of the electrified small SUV’s Australian launch in the third quarter.

After unveiling the radical-looking new Kia Niro in November last year, the Korean car-maker has now confirmed that the regular series/parallel hybrid powertrain will be based on the Hyundai Motor Group’s ‘Smartstream’ 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.

The new engine develops an almost identical 77kW/144Nm to the current ‘Kappa’ engine (of the same displacement), and paired to a 32kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor the hybrid system produces a combined 104kW.

That’s the same power output as the current model, however Kia is claiming improved efficiency that in Australia currently sees the Niro hybrid return a combined-cycle economy figure of 3.8L/100km.

Based on Korean testing protocols, we expect a local figure of at least 3.5L/100km, helped by the new engine, revised six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and improved aerodynamics.

This would make it one of the most efficient cars available on the Aussie market.

Kia has also confirmed the ‘Green Zone’ drive mode that already features on plug-in versions of the Niro will be extended to the non-plug-in hybrid.

This sees the powertrain automatically switch to electric-only drive, depending on location, such as when in school zones.

Full details surrounding PHEV and battery-electric (EV) versions are yet to surface, however the new 1.6-litre engine should serve as the basis for the PHEV, just as the current Kappa engine does now.

Measuring 4420mm long, 1825mm wide and 1545mm tall, the new Niro is bigger than its predecessor in every respect, including the wheelbase (2720mm), with the biggest growth being in its overall length (+65mm).

Predictably, this has resulted in an increase for both passenger and cargo room, with the boot capacity now up to 451 litres (+15L).

The most obvious difference between the current Niro, which was only launched last year, and the new-generation model you see here is in the styling department.

Notwithstanding with the plentiful angles, contours and details, the biggest design change is clearly the contrasting solid rear pillar which at first glance make the car look as if it has sideburns.

Under the skin, the MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension geometries have been refined and optimised in combustion with the power steering for “improved responsiveness, stability and ride comfort”.

Inside, there’s a completely redesigned interior headlined by recycled and eco-friendly materials as well as a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, below which is a separate interface for the HVAC controls.

Kia head of customer experience Artur Martins said the new Kia Niro heralds the next step in the brand’s “journey to become a sustainable mobility solutions provider”.

“From the outset, our ambition was to create a car that makes it easier for people to practice a sustainable lifestyle,” he said.

“With its eco-friendly materials, advanced technology and range of highly efficient electrified powertrains, the all-new Niro truly delivers on its goal.”