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The Kia Niro is a hybrid crossover that is one of the most fuel-efficient non-plug-in hybrid cars on the market. This car offers shoppers roomy seating for five passengers, plenty of cargo space and a decent ride in a package that doesn't cost you an arm and a leg. The 2020 model year has some minor changes to improve performance, but it still remains one of our favourite models in this class with its combination of reliability, safety features and styling at an affordable price point.
When you're thinking about getting a new car, it's important to know what you're getting. Under the hood of every Niro is a hybrid powertrain that pairs a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
It sports plenty enough performance for daily driving, but not so much as to feel like an overpowered SUV or truck.
It should be noted that there are other hybrids on the market that get better fuel economy numbers than this one does (though none have quite as much cargo space), but if efficiency isn't your top priority, then perhaps another vehicle might be more suitable for your needs?
The 2020 Kia Niro has been redesigned, with a new look and improved features. The front end is more aggressive than before, with a more prominent grille and larger headlights. New exterior colours include Deep Sea Blue, Sonic Silver and Ultra Black. The interior gets new colour options as well: brown leather seats are now available on the SX trim level, while the EX gets a blue tone that was previously only offered on the SX version (as well as some other minor adjustments).
New infotainment systems have replaced both versions of Kia’s UVO system with an all-new system called Apple CarPlay or Android Auto depending on whether you have an iPhone or Android phone respectively (they work differently). Both offer smartphone integration via Bluetooth wireless technology so users can access apps like Spotify or Pandora without having to use their smartphones at all times while driving!
The 2020 Kia Niro comes with more standard features, more trim levels and a small price bump. The Touring model made a return in 2020 after being absent from the lineup since 2018.
The Kia Niro comes in a few different trim levels:
The optional Advanced Technology Package includes adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking (AEB). For those who want more power under their right foot when they want it, there's also a turbocharged version available for both trims that ups horsepower by 22 per cent compared to non-turbo versions of each model year—a welcome improvement for spirited driving enthusiasts!
The LX is an excellent starter car for budget-conscious buyers, but the EX and EX Premium trims add a load of value-adding standard features at a minimal cost.
When it comes to performance, the Kia Niro has a lot going for it. The ride is smooth and forgiving in normal driving conditions, but if you want to push the car around corners or on winding roads, it can hold its own against many other small crossover SUVs like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.
Kia Niro also makes for a great family car. The interior feels spacious and airy, and there’s plenty of room for luggage or groceries in the back seats. The ride is smooth and quiet, even on bumpier roads. Overall, it’s a comfortable ride that you can enjoy every day.
Overall, the Niro is a fun car to drive. It doesn’t feel like it’s struggling with anything and its handling is very predictable. It drives well in city traffic as well as on the highway. The interior design is nice and it has enough space for four adults or five if you don’t mind being cramped up a bit (especially in the back seat).
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