Today we’re back with a first-look review of the Kia Niro EV. Production of hybrid and electric vehicles in Pakistan is not too far, and Kia has given a glimpse of their EV offering in the future. Kia Niro is a 5-seater crossover which debuted internationally in 2016. Gasoline and hybrid models were offered initially, followed by the Niro EV in 2018. This unit is a 2021 model Niro EV, which will be displayed across Kia showrooms for customer feedback.
Powertrain And Range
The Kia Niro is offered in two battery sizes worldwide, a 39.2 kWh and a 64 kWh lithium-ion battery. This unit has a 64kWh battery which generates 201 hp and 394 nm of torque, enabling the car to do 0 to 100 in just under 8 seconds. This electric motor is configured with a single-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to the front wheels.
As for the range, according to the company, the Niro can give a range of 300 plus kilometers on a full charge. Charging time is 8 to 10 hours on a normal home socket, while 0 to 80 percent will take only 45 minutes to an hour on commercial fast chargers.
Exterior
Being the first generation, the Niro’s exterior dates back to 2016, when it was first launched. The front end features LED projection headlamps, intended patterns in place of the grill where the charging port is mounted. The bumper gets bright blue garnishes denoting the electric platform along with front parking sensors.
The sides feature 18-inch alloys with chrome mouldings surrounding the windows. The rear end is very similar to the Kia Rio in design and is pretty basic, although you get a gloss black roof spoiler which adds a bit of character to the Niro.
Interior
The interior, on the other hand, is very well laid out and doesn’t look dated at all. Materials feel solid, with soft padding on almost every touch point. Dash gets a gloss black panel, complimented by the 8-inch infotainment system, sleek air vents, and aluminum-finished buttons.
The center cluster is rather distinctive and has a quirky feel with a rotary gear shift and controls for several features. The most attractive aspect of the interior is the instrument cluster, a fully digital screen with independent digital dials for speed and range, which looks pretty modern. Space-wise, the cabin is very roomy, with decent headroom and legroom.
Features
The Niro EV has several features, including paddle shifters, driving modes, an electronic parking brake, heated and ventilated seats, a sunroof, an electric driver seat with lumbar support, Android Auto, Apple Carplay, and much more. Safety features include five airbags, ABS, EBD, traction control, blind spot monitor, parking sensors, etc.
Price
The certainty of a final price bracket and availability is very low; however, as per Kia, the Niro will cost around PKR 8.5 million if launched.
