As automakers shift the focus from making cars to concentrate on trucks and SUVs, the 2019 Kia Niro should fit into the competitive landscape with little trouble.
Energy Efficiency in Transportation
The Kia Niro EV is power-driven by an electric motor providing an estimated 201 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque. A choice of two lithium polymer batteries is expected. A 39.2 kWh unit with a range of 150 miles may or may not be made available in North America, but the 64 kWh unit with a range of approximately 240 miles on a single charge will be soon seen in showrooms. The plug-in hybrid Kia Niro is fuel efficient with an EV-only range of 26 miles with power from an 8.9 kWh battery and a 1.6 liter engine. Battery charging should take no more than three hours on a 240-volt charger.
More Than Enough Reasons to Love This Compact Crossover
The base model Niro comes loaded with technology that is optional in competitive autos. The infotainment system features an easily adapted and uncluttered interface and fully supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Adaptive cruise control that adjusts the vehicle speed to maintain safe distances is also standard.
Kia’s UVO system enables features such as remote start and the parking minder, which stores and displays the vehicle’s last location on your smartphone. Diagnostics can be scheduled to run monthly, and there are alerts for speed, curfew time limits, and entrance into restricted areas. Most of the data is transferred to your phone via an app with processing from the mobile carrier. The result is essentially a subscription-free telematics service. Viewing the analytics can improve driver habits by helping them be more aware of distance driven, time spent driving, and average speeds.
Kia Niro Can Be Great for Commuting
Niro is not designed for power or speed but rather for very fuel efficient traveling and commuting. The sports model promises zero to 60 miles per hour in about nine seconds, and the suspension remains adequate on rougher roads. The fuel efficiency, which can average as much as 40 miles per gallon when driven in hybrid mode, is what may be most attractive.
Impressive in Innovating
The design of the 2019 Kia Niro appears to be focused on creating the most user-friendly vehicle possible. The human-machine interface is natural while being more advanced. The inclusion of in-cabin technology surpasses that of higher priced vehicles. With distinctive blue-colored interior accents, occupants can feel comfortable and assured. The 17-inch alloy wheels raise the bar with a bolder appearance, while the more streamlined front fascia with charging port not only improves aerodynamics but maintains Kia’s distinct look.
With the inclusion of an abundance of technology combined with remarkable energy consumption, the anticipation of the debut of the 2019 Kia Niro is not unwarranted. Another very appealing feature is the very competitive price, which is expected to be similar to current models. We can hope it has more infrastructure for battery charging, as fuller adaptation may result in even better pricing.
image via Flickr by Seung Hyun Yu licensed under CC BY 2.0
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