Second-Generation KIA Niro Is a Triple Threat for New Sustainable Green World

In the electric vehicle world, it sometimes appears that some manufacturers believe an electric vehicle has to be minimally designed to reduce the weight of the vehicle, so they scrimp on comfort, styling, and luxury. This does not have to be the case. Many moons ago I was able to tour a brand new 747 jet that a company had received from the Boeing Company. The interior was set to be designed to look like a multi-million dollar mansion for a high-level dignitary who lived overseas. But because of security concerns that surround his position, the plane had to be light enough to fly from his home country to the U.S. with no fuel stops. I went back almost a year later and again toured the plane and saw the finished product which was ultra luxurious, proving you can accomplish efficiency with comfort, styling, and luxury.

The KIA Niro EV Wave is one of those vehicles that was designed for those who want to enjoy the benefits of an electric vehicle without sacrificing style, performance, or your life savings. For 2023 Niro is not only larger in every dimension, including class-leading passenger and cargo volume, but Stronger, lighter, and more powerful. The Kia Niro is a relatively new model in the Kia lineup, having been first introduced in 2016. The Niro was designed to be a hybrid vehicle but later expanded to include a plug-in hybrid and an all-electric version.

Kia's electrified vehicle momentum continues with the launch of the all-new second-generation Niro, which offers more refinement, versatility, connectivity, and technology than ever. The 2023 Niro was designed for today's needs and for sustainable future mobility.

Steven Center, COO & EVP, Kia America

The hybrid version of the Niro is best-in-class producing 53 MPG, while the all-electric version produces an all-electric range (AER) of 253 miles. And when you need to recharge the EV version, it has a fast charge capability of recharging from 10% battery life to 80% in under 45 minutes. For those learning about EVs, that is a big deal.

The Niro was designed inside and out with an Opposites United philosophy that combines inspiration from nature with aerodynamic refinement. The exterior's aerodynamic shape and unique accents give the Niro a sophisticated and adventurous sense of purpose which is accentuated by the Aero Blade, a highly distinctive shape that also aids airflow underneath the D-pillar. Because of this refined aero design, the Niro achieves an impressive drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29.

Upscale touches abound inside as the engineers maximize comfort and convenience with a spacious cabin that can comfortably seat up to five passengers. The dashboard features a large touchscreen display that provides access to a variety of features and functions, including navigation, entertainment, and climate control. The Niro EV also comes equipped with 20 Standard Safety Assist technologies as well as advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot detection, and lane departure warning.

My Niro press loan for the week was the all-electric version of the Wave. As you can see from my pictures this vehicle is bold from every angle and a definite head-turner. The interior lines, materials, and comfort hit the mark as well. I found it to be a vehicle you would enjoy driving across the country. People were stopping and asking me who manufactured the 'car'. I would first explain it was considered a CUV and that it was an all-electric vehicle built by KIA.

The all-electric Niro EV is powered by a 64.8 kWh battery and a 150kW (201-horsepower) motor with DC fast-charging capability as standard. Plugged in to a Level 3 fast charger, the Niro EV can replenish 10 to 80 percent in under 45 minutes, at a maximum charging capability of 85 kW. The 11kW onboard charger also helps recharge the Niro EV in under seven hours on a Level 2 charger. EPA-rated AER for the Niro EV is 253 miles. An optional heat pump and battery warmer help preserve range in cold temperatures.

As an 'Electric Vehicles for Dummies' type of summary, you can drive it for 253 miles and it can be recharged at a level three charger in 45 minutes, or in my case time enough to eat lunch at the café by the charging station while waiting for it to charge.

Specifications

Engine: 150kW Electric Motor
Torque: 1-speed transmission
Transmission: CONTENT
Wheels: 16” Alloy Wheels
On-Board Charger: 7.2kW
DC Fast Charge Port: 480v
Sound: Kia Connect
Color: Snow White Pearl
Fuel: 30kW-hrs per 100 Miles
MSRP (starts): $39,550

Learn More

For more information or to test drive this vehicle for yourself, stop by a local dealer or visit online at:
KIA Niro