The recently revealed pictures of the 2016 Kia Niro hint at a unique design for the Korean auto manufacturer’s latest SUV. The pictures show the Kia traditional “Tiger Nose” with slight modifications to the grille making it similar to the latest Cee’d. A secondary grille holds a set of LED day-running lights and the bumper features vertical vents on its outer edges.
The Niro is Kia’s first ever hybrid crossover and the first small SUV crossover in the market with a hybrid powertrain. Its namesake was a concept car displayed by Kia in the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show to rival the Nissan Juke and take over the Kia Venga market.
Kia is referring to the Niro as an HUV (Hybrid Utility Vehicle) and aims to compete with the popular Toyota Prius. The front wheel drive 2016 Kia Niro sports a 104 bph 1.5 L Kappa petrol engine coupled with a 32 kW electric motor. The Co2 emissions are targeted at less than 90 g/k (about 70 mpg).
The expected launch date for the 2016 Niro is August 2016. Post launch offerings may include a plug-in powertrain as well as four wheel drive option.