The second-generation Niro was introduced in November last year but its technical details emerged after three months of its debut and that was only for the hybrid Niro. The compact crossover is in the news again as Kia has now provided information about the plug-in hybrid and all-electric models that will now join the hybrid model.
2022 Niro PHEV
Starting with the 2022 Kia Niro PHEV, it comes equipped with the 1.6-litre gasoline engine, which is a part of the HEV model as well. The four-cylinder engine mates to a new dual-clutch, six-speed automatic transmission. It has shed 2.3 kilograms (5 pounds) weight by ditching the reverse gear. The natural question is then how it will reverse itself. It will use electric energy for this purpose.
The electric power comes from a 62-kilowatt motor instead of the HEV’s 32-kW setup. The bigger battery means more power, which jumps from 139 hp to 180 hp. With the PHEV, you can also physically recharge to benefit from a 5.5-kWh high-volt Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater.
The PTC is a Hyundai Group product that offers an additional range in cold driving conditions. The engineers have fixed self-regulated ceramic parts for extra warmth to get a continuous warm airflow.
Regarding the PHEV’s battery pack, Kia has replaced the old 8.9-kWh battery with a tad bigger 11.1-kWh pack to improve the all-electric range up to 40.3 miles (65 kilometers) according to the WLTP cycle. That said, this range is achievable only if the Niro PHEV uses 16-inch wheels. The bigger wheels will obviously deliver a lower range.
2022 Niro EV
The compact crossover in its pure electric flavor delivers 201 hp and 255 Nm (188 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain will enable it to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.8 seconds and hit a maximum speed of 104 mph (167 km/h).
The electric motor uses a 64.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery that should deliver 287 miles (463 km) in the WLTP cycle between charges. On a DC charger, Kia says the compact electric crossover can juice up from 10 to 80 percent in about 43 minutes. The second-generation Niro also lets you benefit from bidirectional charging, available just for devices at up to 3 kWh.
The 2022 Kia Niro EV becomes more practical compared to the previous model owing to its frunk that can store 20 litres of luggage. Besides, Kia has also improved the boot space from 451 litres to 475 litres.
Those who prefer electrified models will get 451-litre cargo space in the HEV and 348 litres in the PHEV.
The 2022 Kia Niro is the first vehicle from the South Korean automaker that uses the K3 platform. It will hit the European roads soon. The specification details for the US model will arrive later.
Source: Kia