Longer, wider, more spacious, and even more efficient, the second-generation 2023 Kia Niro is here with greater cabin technology and outstanding style.
But for owners of the original Niro, which ran for six model years between 2017 and 2022, what has actually changed with the all-new model?
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
There are a few key changes – small but meaningful – in terms of Niro growth. The 2023 Niro is 2.5 inches longer bumper to bumper, nearly an inch wider, and runs on a wheelbase that's stretched by nearly an inch. They're modest alterations, but it pays off.
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
It pays off inside where the Niro now offers 645 litres of cargo capacity, a 17% increase. In fact, with the rear seats folded, max. cargo volume is up to 1,804 litres, also a 17% increase. Rear seat leg room has grown by 2.4 inches. There are slight increases in front head room and front shoulder room plus a bit more space in the rear for head, shoulder, and hips. Details matter.
TECHNOLOGY
Standard safety tech in the 2023 Niro now includes Highway Drive Assist, Rear Occupant Alert, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Avoidance Assist, and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning. Many of these components were largely unheard-of in 2017. There's now a standard 8-inch display (and an available 10.25-inch centre screen that can be paired with a 10.25-inch Supervision display cluster.) The Niro's regenerative braking system now automatically controls battery regen with radar and road gradient information. Kia's Digital Key To Touch allows you to unlock/lock or even start the vehicle with your phone or smartwatch. The list of high-tech upgrades is endless.
STYLE
Yet the most obvious alteration is outside. There are three primary distinctive elements: the c-pillar aero blade, the boomerang LED taillights, and the integration of headlights into Kia's Tiger Nose. The new Niro's style is unique, but it's also unmistakeably a Niro.
The 2023 Kia Niro is available as a hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and a pure electric (BEV). Niro Hybrid pricing kicks off at $32,444 (freight/pdi included) for the LX. There are also EX, EX Premium, and SX versions of the Niro Hybrid available. The Niro PHEV is available as an EX from $37,995 but is available with federal and provincial rebates totalling $8,250 ($5,000 federal; $3,250 in Prince Edward Island.)
