Kia Niro petrol-electric hybrid introduced

Korean automaker Kia has revealed an all-new hybrid SUV in the form of the Niro. Based on an all-new hybrid-specific platform developed with Hyundai, Kia has billed the model as a ‘Hybrid Utility Vehicle’, which means it combines crossover looks with hybrid technology.

The Niro is powered by a 102bhp, 1.6-litre Atkinson cycle engine paired to a gearbox-mounted 42bhp electric motor. The engine comes equipped with exhaust gas recirculation, direct-injection and what the company calls a 'long-stroke-narrow-bore specification'.

There's also a exhaust heat recovery system that uses a heat exchanger in the exhaust system to help warm up the engine. The electric motor is paired to a 1.56kWh lithium-ion polymer battery stored under the rear seats.

Working in tandem, the petrol-electric hybrid powertrain develops 144bhp and 26.96kgm of torque. Power is channelled to the wheels via a six-speed, dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

In terms of design, the Kia gets a wide stance along with a long wheelbase and short overhangs to help maximise interior space. Exterior styling elements of the SUV include body cladding, the company’s signature grille, aggressively shaped headlights, flared wheel arches, roof rails and a rear skid plate.

The Niro is also equipped with a host of safety and driver-assistance functions such as blind spot detection, cruise control, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking and a predictive energy control system that uses the cruise control and GPS to automatically adjust power output, determine when to charge the battery and when to use the battery charge.