Kia has introduced its third PHEV model – the 2018 Niro Plug-in Hybrid – as the company continues to increase its electrified vehicle line-up. With an estimated 41km of all-electric range and a four-cylinder 1.6-liter engine, the OEM promises a combined range of 900km.
Fitted with an all-aluminum, 1.6-liter gasoline direct injection four-cylinder engine with a 59kW lithium-polymer battery pack and a powerful 60ps electric motor, The Niro Plug-in Hybrid is set up for both optimum fuel efficiency and electrically driven range. While the Niro PHEV boasts EPA-estimated MPG ratings of 5.8l/km city, 6.4l/km highway and 6.1l/km, its stats are similar to those of the standard Niro hybrid.
The new compact crossover’s high-voltage battery is tucked under the cargo floor and the rear seat, while maintaining the same cargo capacity as the Niro hybrid. A full charge can be achieved in around 2.5 hours via a 240V charger, and under nine hours via a 120V charger.
Designed with the same 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as the Niro, drivers can choose from several driving modes, including EV mode, hybrid mode, eco mode, or sport mode, for quicker transmission response that takes advantage of the powertrain’s combined output of 140ps and 195 lb-ft of torque.
The Niro Plug-in Hybrid is another vehicle introduced under the Kia Motors EcoDynamics sub-brand and represents an important next step on the company’s path to nearly tripling its global line-up of alternative fuel vehicles by 2020.
“The Niro Plug-in is the exciting next step in Kia’s progression toward offering more alternative fuel vehicles by 2020,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president at Kia Motors America.