Kia Debuts 2023 Niro Trio: HEV, PHEV, and EV

They say good things come in threes, and Kia’s debut of the 2023 Kia Niro trio proves this sentiment right. The second-generation CUV has been thoughtfully redesigned to exceed the demands of eco-minded drivers. Coming to dealers in late 2022, the Kia Niro will be offered in three highly efficient, electrified powertrains: hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and all-electric (EV). 

2023 Kia Niro: Overview and Price 

Since its launch as a hybrid vehicle in 2017, the Niro nameplate has resonated with drivers who are seeking sustainable mobility without breaking the bank. Just a year after its debut, Kia introduced the Niro EV, which quickly became a consumer favorite. In a study by J.D. Power, the Niro EV ranked the highest in the mass market BEV category beating out competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt and Hyundai Kona. 

Now, Kia is officially overhauling the Niro and redesigning it with driver’s feedback in mind. The 2023 model arrives with best-in-class fuel efficiency, more cargo space, and premium features. It will also be offered in three drivetrains –hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric– giving it flexibility for any lifestyle. All drivetrains will come standard with front-wheel drive, and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard in HEV and PHEV. 

Pricing for the 2023 Kia Niro has yet to be revealed, but it is estimated to start at around $26,000 for the base HEV model. Last year’s PHEV started at around $30,000, with all-electric trims starting at around $39,000.

Niro Drivetrain Options

With gas prices climbing more and more, fuel efficiency is becoming a top priority for shoppers. Kia understands this concern which is why the 2023 Niro arrives with best-in-class fuel economy. 

On the HEV models, the Niro is equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a 32kW electric motor. Together, they create a combined max power output of 139 hp and 195 lb.-fit of torque. Kia also added improved cooling, friction, and combustion technologies to deliver a targeted 53 mpg combined and an estimated driving range of 588 miles. 

For its PHEV configuration, the Niro pairs the 1.6-liter engine with a 62kW electric motor making for an output of 180 hp and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. Convenience was also an important factor when designing the Niro, which is why the Niro PHEV can refill its 11.1-kWh battery in under 3 hours. Once fully charged, the all-electric range is estimated at 33 miles – a 25 percent improvement over the previous model year. 

Lastly is the all-electric Niro EV. This model is powered by a 64.8 kWh battery and 150 kW motor with DC fast-charging capability as standard. Similar to the PHEV, Kia designed the EV model with convenience in mind, which is why the Niro EV can replenish 10 to 80 percent in under 45 minutes (when plugged into a Level 3 charger.) The targeted all-electric range for the Niro EV is 253 miles. 

In its second generation, Niro remains the only car on the market available with three different electrified options. 

Eco-conscious Tech

Besides being fuel-conscious, Kia has also made an effort to add sustainability features throughout its lineup. The all-new 2023 Kia Niro introduces a new Green Zone Drive Mode. This feature automatically transfers Niro HEV and Niro PHEV into electric drive mode in residential areas by using navigation cues and driving history data. 

Another key feature is the Intelligent Regenerative Braking. This allows all Niro models to harvest the maximum amount of energy from its brakes while also bringing the vehicle to a gentle halt.

2023 Kia Niro Interior 

The Niro has a premium feel inside and out. Designed with comfort in mind, the driver-centric cabin offers a spacious environment with best-in-class legroom. In total, the Niro has 67 cubic feet of cargo capacity which gives drivers room to pack in the whole family. 

Continuing the eco-friendly theme, the Niro is composed of animal-free textiles. Instead, it opts for high-quality bio polyurethane and Tencel made from eucalyptus leaves. The headline is composed of recycled wallpaper, which contains 56 percent reused PET fibers. Lastly, the Niro utilizes BTX-free paint to minimize the environmental impact and reduce waste. 

Complementing these interior touches is a striking dual panoramic display. This touchscreen allows drivers to easily access navigation and entertainment features. Its parametric design also borrows cues from the internationally-acclaimed Kia EV6. 

Other interior features include:

• Ambient mood lighting 
• Active Sound Design 
• Standard USB ports
• Eight-speaker premium sound system (available)
• Seat memory position (available)
• Wireless phone charging (available)

Safety and Vehicle Technology

Kia is known for its industry-leading technology, Kia Drive Wise. This suite of technologies is designed to keep you and your passengers safe. Using high-resolution cameras and radar technology, the system detects common hazards and can take corrective action when drivers need it most. Currently, the Drive Wise system includes 11 safety features and it is continuously being improved upon each year.  

Here are some of the tech features drivers can expect:

• Head-Up Display 
• Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto
• Forward Collision-Avoidance
• Lane Keep Assist
• Lane Following Assist
• Driver Attention Warning
• Blind Spot Collisions Avoidance
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance-Assist 
• Safe Exit Warning
• Rear Occupant Alert
• Smart Cruise Control

Available on the Niro will also be Kia Connect, which is accessible in-car or through the Kia Access App. With this, drivers can unlock and start their vehicles remotely. They can also share a digital key through a simple text message. Even more so, Kia Connect allows for Over-the-Air updates, which means new features can be added without having to upgrade to a newer model year. 

One of the most prominent features is Smart Speaker, which allows drivers to adjust audio controls, cabin temperatures, and more by using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistance. In addition to this, Kia Connect includes Stolen Vehicle Recovery and Immobilization, 911 Connect, and Roadside Assistance which gives peace of mind when you need it most. 

At the time of writing, the 2023 Kia Niro is not yet available. It is expected to go on sale later this year in fall 2022. In the meantime, you can shop for new Kia models or our huge selection of used cars online. We’d also love for you to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep up to date on the latest news.