Kia finally took the veils off its new Niro model line-up, after weeks of grueling teasing campaigns. Fans of the brand will be relieved to learn that the new model comes with a completely new design, both inside and out, and uses sustainable and recycled materials throughout its construction.
The design of the car was created using the HabaNiro concept as inspiration. That’s particularly highlighted by the two-tone body paint finish and the wide C-pillar. Combining the concept elements with the ‘Opposites United’ philosophy Kia has been promoting recently, we get a car that uses both old-school cues and futuristic details.
The traditional Kia ‘tiger nose’ is still visible on the front fascia while the headlights have a completely new approach, with a fresh signature DRL. The same could be said about the back end too, that features a lot of LEDs, stretching up the rear pillars. Strong shoulder lines complete a rather aggressive package.
The cabin of the 2023 Kia Niro has also been redesigned for the second generation of the vehicle. The most notable feature is the off-center dash, which features a fully digital instrument cluster and a large infotainment screen directed towards the driver. Kia has also included a dial-type shift lever in the center console of the new Niro. There is also an ambient lighting system.
The new Niro’s headliner is made of recycled wallpaper, while the seats are made of Bio PU with Tencel from eucalyptus leaves, according to the South Korean automaker. In addition, benzene, toluene, and xylene isomers-free paint is used on the door panels to decrease waste and minimize environmental pollution.
The 2022 Niro gets a new ‘Greenzone Drive Mode’. When driving in green zones such as residential regions, or near schools and hospitals, this feature automatically switches the plug-in hybrid versions to an all-electric mode. The technology also recognizes a driver’s favorite spots, which are marked as green zones in the navigation system.
While no particular specifications have been disclosed at this time, Kia has stated that the new Niro will be available with hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and pure-electric powertrains only, beginning next year.
