2023 is a game-changer of a year for the Niro, and if ever there was a time to consider a new Niro, this is it. With hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full EV options, the Niro is one of the most versatile options out there, offering better efficiency, style, and convenience than ever before. Now, before you go running off to the Kia Niro dealer near you, we have put together a buyer’s guide so you can figure out exactly which model to look for. It’s worth getting a better understanding of what your options are, how the Niro can increase the comfort and convenience of your driving experience, and, best of all, how the Niro can save you money by increasing your efficiency through its battery options before you start test driving. Seriously, the Niro is making huge strides this year, and we think you’re going to love it.
Your Three Niro Options
One of the most interesting things about the Kia Niro is the fact that it is available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and EV. With many vehicles, especially in the compact SUV sector, you have the “regular” car (the standard direct-injection), sometimes a hybrid option, and if the brand is really on top of it, you’ll sometimes have an EV option, but usually it’s a separate vehicle. With the Niro, you’re either going at least partly electric, or you’re not getting a Niro. So, which of the three model options is the best?
Well, in the interest of stating the obvious, the best option is going to depend on your own needs. Each Niro model has its own advantages and disadvantages, and your current needs and driving habits are going to play a big role in which option you should look for. If you aren’t ready to give up gasoline entirely, the hybrid will be the way to go, but if you are motivated by electric energy, then look to the EV.
The Niro Hybrid
The Niro hybrid is perfect for those who like to keep the status quo in terms of driving habits but spend less money and time stopping for gas. Since it’s not a plug-in hybrid, you don’t have to worry about charging the vehicle or maintaining the electric component. You get the benefit of electric power, which means higher specs and higher efficiency, thus reducing your gas stops and reducing your gas bills. That’s a pretty good selling point. Nothing changes in your driving habits; you just save time and money.
The 2023 Niro hybrid offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 53 MPG in the city and 54 MPG on the highway, which far surpasses anything you’ll find in the direct-injection sector. Plus, the hybrid engineering allows a range of up to 588 miles. If you need to be able to go a long time between fuel-ups, the hybrid Niro is the one for you.
The Niro Plug-In Hybrid
The Niro plug-in hybrid starts to look more like an EV. Having a plug-in hybrid requires a little more maintenance on your part since you will have to take the time to charge the vehicle’s battery and tend to its electric component. The benefit, though, is that the plug-in hybrid allows you to isolate the electric component, with an all-electric range of 33 miles. That’s a pretty impressive all-electric range for a plug-in, and don’t forget, you’re still going to get gas mileage of about 108 MPGe. Plus, the increased battery power means better specs at 180 hp vs the Niro hybrid’s 139 hp. So, to sum it up, the plug-in hybrid won’t have you making full road trips on all-electric power, but it takes your efficiency through the roof and allows you to cruise on all battery power for shorter distances.
The Niro EV
The newest addition to the Niro lineup is the EV. Anybody who thinks that EVs are only beneficial environmentally and not performance-wise knows very little about EVs. This is the most powerful of all three options, coming in at 201 hp. What’s more, it provides an all-electric range of 253 miles.
Now, there are some things to consider with the EV. Not only will you have to make sure you’re charging the battery and tending to it, but you will be completely dependent upon doing so. There is no engine option here, so if your battery is out the car won’t function. Charging stations are more common than they used to be, but you’ll want to plot out exactly where your stops are for any longer trips. 253 miles is a reasonable distance, but if you’re driving through rural areas or long turnpikes, you’ll want to make sure that you crunch the numbers and determine the most prudent stops. Moreover, charging takes time, so you need to factor that into your plans. Charging is not like a quick fill-up for your gas tank; it needs to sit for a bit to get back to full operational level. So, you’ll want to make sure that you have time carved out for this and built into your schedule.
Comfort & Convenience
No matter which 2023 Kia Niro model you buy, you’re going to find it packed with a variety of comfort and convenience features. One of the biggest selling points of Kia’s compact SUVs is their deceptively generous interior space. With around 42.5 inches of front legroom and 39.8 inches of rear legroom in the 2023 models, nobody will feel cramped during the ride. Of course, with any type of interior space in an SUV comes extra cargo room, and the Niro provides up to 63.7 cubic feet. Now, you won’t be able to have that full number with the back seats occupied, but if you’re in for just a one or two-person ride, flip those seats down, and you’ve got yourself some excellent cargo-hauling room.
In classic Kia fashion, the Niro is also quite tech-savvy. This is not surprising coming from a brand-new EV, but it is exciting nonetheless. With visually striking touchscreen displays, including both the infotainment screen at eight or 10.25 inches, and the driver awareness center, the 2023 Niro keeps the driver informed, aware, and entertained throughout the course of the drive. What’s more, the Niro can be connected to your smartphone so that you can stay connected on any journey. Throw in some highly-advanced safety features, including collision-avoidance assist with junction turning, and your Niro will practically be taking care of itself.
Get Charged Up for the 2023 Kia Niro
The 2023 Niro is here and ready to serve you mile after mile. Whether you’re looking at a standard hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, or a full EV, you’re in for a ride that is efficient, comfortable, and convenient. The Niro is the talk of the industry right now, and there’s a reason why. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface here, but the fact that this vehicle offers three distinct ways of going partially or fully electric while maintaining an affordable starting MSRP is astonishing. The future of the automobile is changing, and electric power is taking over. Vehicles like the Kia Niro are merely getting ahead of the curve by providing reliable options now. The Niro is charged up for 2023. Are you ready?
