2023 Kia Niro

Overview

With a bold new look, the 2023 Kia Niro is set to add a dose of cool to its eco-friendly image. The base hybrid model comes with a 139-hp four-cylinder, while the perkier plug-in-hybrid model adds an electric motor and bumps power to 180 ponies. The cabin, which is lined with sustainable materials, matches the extroverted exterior styling and looks fairly upscale for what will be one of Kia’s entry-level models; it’s positioned next to the boxy Soul at the small end of the lineup. A novel ‘Green Zone’ drive mode will be standard and uses navigation data to automatically switch the Niro into EV mode when driving in neighborhoods, near schools and hospitals, and by frequently visited places such as a driver’s office or home.

What’s New for 2023?

The Niro is all new for 2023 with styling inspired by the HabaNiro concept from 2019. We expect to see the new Niro rolling into Kia showrooms in summer 2022.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

LX

$26,000 (est)

X-Line

$28,000 (est)

EX

$30,000 (est)

EX PHEV

$32,000 (est)

SX

$35,000 (est)

SX PHEV

$38,000 (est)

Pricing and feature details for the new Niro have not yet been released, but we expect it to be offered in a variety of styles for a broad range of budgets. Both hybrid and plug-in-hybrid powertrains will continue to be offered, as well as a full EV model, but we review that one separately.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Like the 2022 model, the redesigned 2023 Niro hybrid will be powered by a 139-hp hybrid powertrain that consists of a 1.6-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor. A six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission will be standard, and the 2023 Niro will be offered only with front-wheel drive. A plug-in-hybrid powertrain adds an electric motor to the mix for a combined 180 horsepower. We haven’t had a chance to test-drive the new Niro yet, but when we do we’ll update this story with driving impressions and test results.

More on the Niro SUV

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The plug-in-hybrid variant comes with a 11.1-kWh battery pack that is said to offer around 33 miles of electric driving range per charge. Kia says that when the car is connected to a Level 2 charger, the battery can be refilled in less than three hours.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Official estimates from the EPA haven’t been revealed yet, but Kia says it expects the Niro hybrid to earn a rating of 53 mpg combined. That would beat the current-gen Niro by 3 mpg in that same metric. When we get a chance to test the Niro on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route, we’ll update this story with details. For more information about the Niro’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

A more sculptural interior design creates a more contemporary feel inside the new Niro. Kia has used recycled materials and natural fibers such as eucalyptus leaves for the headliner and upholstery. Passenger space is expected to be roughly the same as the outgoing Niro, meaning it’s not the most spacious SUV on the market, but it should offer space for four adults and a cargo area big enough for a large grocery run. Ambient interior lighting lends an upscale touch, and a rotary shift knob replaces the lever-style gear selector found on the current model.

The Car and Driver Difference

Infotainment and Connectivity

A large 10.3-inch infotainment display is expected to be standard across the Niro lineup and should run the latest version of Kia’s UVO infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard; a wireless smartphone charging pad and an eight-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo system are optional.

How to Buy and Maintain a Car

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

A host of driver-assistance features comes standard on all Niro models, including pedestrian detection capabilities, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. A more advanced adaptive cruise control system that features a semi-autonomous driving mode will be offered as an option. For more information about the Niro’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Kia and its sister company, Hyundai, offer one of the most comprehensive vehicle warranties available. The 10-year powertrain warranty is the cornerstone, but they beat the competition almost across the board. The only thing that’s missing—for Kia, at least—is complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance