Kia Niro – Mild Hybrid, Plug-In or Full Electric?

The launch of the Kia Niro small SUV with a choice of three electric powertrains, raises customer options based on fit-for-purpose.

The hybrid helps reduces but does not minimise fuel consumption. A full electric is a commitment to reducing pollution particularly at the local level.

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A plug-in hybrid could be the best of both worlds for people who do occasional long trips.

But Kia predicts that the plug-in hybrid will be the smallest seller as Roland Rivero their product manager notes

All a lot of it will be supply driven. And currently the minimum quantity that we’ve we’ve got agreed with KIA headquarters is about 100 a month. And that breakdown works out to be around about 20 units a month for the EV and about 70 units a month for the hybrid. And the gap 10, ten or so units a month is obviously the Plug-In hybrid.

What’s good

• Choice of three engines
• Range
• Fast charging ability

What’s not

• Design seems a little dated
• No full size spare tyre
• Expensive in EV model

Also Look At

• Hyundai Kona EV
• Nissan Leaf
• Citroen C4
• MG ZST 

*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.

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