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There have now been two generations of Kia Niro, the first sold between 2016 and 2021, and the model that’s currently on sale offered since then. We’re concentrating on the older model here as that’s what you’re likely to find in the largest numbers on the used market - and they’re looking increasingly good value as depreciation takes hold, too, especially for models still covered by the remainder of Kia’s 7-year warranty.
Taking the form of a relatively small SUV, the Niro was offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full electric variants, which means there’s an option whether you’re wishing to merely dip a toe into electrification, or dive in headlong. Bountiful equipment levels and an easy-going driving experience add to the original Niro’s appeal.
The Niro was among the first cars to introduce hybrid and plug-in variants across the range so for older models at least, it doesn’t have much competition. But the newer you go, the easier rivals are to find, with cars like the Toyota C-HR and Peugeot 3008 offering similar characteristics.
As an all-rounder the Kia Niro has a lot to recommend it. In our full review we described it as perhaps “the ultimate ‘white goods’ purchase”, and we don’t mean that as an insult to the car - it’s simply a vehicle that does everything you ask of it with minimal fuss for as long as you need it too, and you’ll probably give it little more thought until the next time you come to buy a car.
It’s relatively easy on the eye but won’t have the neighbours’ curtains twitching, and since all models are electrified, it won’t wake the neighbours each morning either. The engines are quiet and smooth and controlled by an effective dual-clutch automatic gearbox (making them feel slightly more precise than the CVT equivalents in some rival hybrids) and the ride and handling are both perfectly adequate - again, not a criticism so much as an observation.
The interior is similarly straightforward. Boot space varies depending on the model, with the plug-in hybrid having the least room for luggage, but passenger space is comparable to rivals in all versions, and the raised seating position affords a good view out. It’s built well too, and while the dashboard isn’t as flashy as later Kias, it’s about as logical and easy to use as cabins get.
Then there’s the e-Niro electric car, which has a very useful range for what’s now a relatively outdated model, and the best performance of the bunch. As used electric cars go, it’s a very sensible option.
Earlier Niros didn’t have much competition but more manufacturers introduced similar vehicles over the years, so if the Niro doesn’t appeal, you might want to look at a Toyota C-HR or Peugeot 3008 for something more stylish, or a regular petrol or diesel equivalent like the Nissan Qashqai if you’re still not convinced by hybrid technology.
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With three distinctly different drivetrains on offer - hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full electric - you’ll have to decide just what you need from your next car, but the regular hybrid makes sense for anyone not yet comfortable with plugging in a car at home or at work, or if you simply don’t have the access to charging. The EV’s useful range makes it a genuinely usable electric car if you do have charging facilities, though.
In terms of specification, all Niros are well-equipped. We’d be tempted to go for at least ‘3’ trim though for its larger infotainment screen and the heated steering wheel and front seats.
Kia’s familiar number-based trim level system made a return on the Niro, which keeps things simple when you’re looking through used examples - basically, the higher the number, the more kit you’ll get. No Niro is badly equipped, though you will find variations depending on what’s powering the car, as plug-in hybrid and full EV models will tend to have smaller wheels, aimed at maximising efficiency.
The Kia Niro’s dimensions are:
The Kia Niro’s boot size is:
If you’re looking at the Kia e-Niro, then VED or ‘road tax’ is completely free, like it is with other electric cars. Post-April 2017 versions of the hybrid and plug-in hybrid cost a flat rate of £170 per year (a £10 saving over regular petrol and diesel cars), while the models sold before this date go back to a CO2-based system, and thanks to their low CO2 emissions, are also currently free, like the EV.
Insurance could be pretty affordable depending on the Niro you’re looking at. A hybrid in the most basic ‘2’ trim starts in only group 11, which is the kind of insurance group you’d expect to see on some superminis. Plug-in hybrids start in group 14 and even the e-Niro is reasonable, sitting in group 20 in the 1-50 group system.
Read our full Kia Niro review