The 2019 Niro Plug-in Hybrid brings an exciting new dimension to Kia’s alternative fuel car line-up.
As Kia’s third plug-in model, the Niro PHEV offers the same crossover utility, fun-driving and winning design of the Niro hybrid, but with an estimated 41 kilometres (25.5 miles) of all-electric, zero-emissions range. It will also offer a total estimated range of more than 900 kilometres (560 miles) when the electric and gasoline systems are working together.
“Packed with all the same functionality and fun drivability of our popular Niro hybrid, the new Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid Crossover will offer even greater fuel economy and extended range,” said Ted Lancaster, VP & COO, Kia Canada Inc. “We are expecting the Niro Plug-In Hybrid to build on the current Niro’s success and popularity by providing Canadians with yet another electrified vehicle to our current line-up.”
The Niro PHEV pairs an all-aluminum, efficient 1.6-liter GDI (gasoline direct injection) four-cylinder engine with an 8.9 kWh (59 kW) lithium-polymer battery pack and a powerful 60-HP (44.5 kW) electric motor, a set-up for optimum fuel efficiency and electrically driven range.
Increased high-voltage battery capacity (+7.34 kWh more than Niro hybrid) and output/power have helped make the Niro Plug-in Hybrid an efficient, low emissions crossover. The Niro PHEV’s compact, high voltage battery is neatly tucked under the cargo floor and under the rear seat and maintains the same spacious cargo capacity as the Niro hybrid. A single charging port is located in the driver’s side front fender. A full charge can be achieved in approximately 2.5 hours via a 240V (Level 2) charger, and under 9 hours via a 120V (Level 1) charger.
The Niro PHEV employs the same six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) as the Niro, which translates to more enjoyable and engaging driving. Drivers can choose from several driving modes, including EV mode, Hybrid mode, (default) Eco mode, or Sport mode for quicker transmission response that takes advantage of the powertrain’s combined output of 139 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque.
Another notable energy-conserving feature is the Driver-Only Air Conditioning, which directs the ventilation toward the driver only and decreases the power consumption of the air conditioning system.
Niro PHEV is expected to be available late this summer and full canadian details will be released at a later date.
