All-new Kia Niro - now in Taupo
19 July, 2022
All-new Kia Niro speaks to a new audience.
- A bold and stylish new design
- Spacious and minimalist interior with premium and sustainable materials
- Kia ‘Plan S’ strategy continues to flourish with launch of all-new Niro
- Enhanced safety across the range
- Suspension and steering receive local tune
- EV models boast improved charging time and 460km range
- All models in lineup eligible for Clean Car rebate
- Three new models launch with special introductory maximum retail price, available from only $39,990*
The all-new generation of Kia’s Niro range has launched with a wide-ranging suite of significant updates, including a specific focus on safety, aesthetics, design and technology.
“Kia has introduced a wide range of electric vehicles over the last five years. Known as our ‘Plan S’ strategy, the all-new Niro is the latest model in this global initiative and we believe the Kiwi motoring public are going to love it,” said Managing Director of Kia New Zealand, Todd McDonald.
“The all-new Niro is very nearly a clean sheet redesign and will be an inspired choice for motorists who desire something contemporary and versatile for their mobility needs.
“The new Niro builds on the previous models’ ease of use and practicality, then adds a serious dose of extra technology and some of the most stunning of the EV6 inspired design themes, we couldn’t be happier with it.”
As part of a special, limited-time launch offer, three of the new models have been released with an introductory maximum retail price.*
These include HEV Light ($39,990), HEV Earth ($44,990) and PHEV Light ($49,990).
Selected models in the range also benefit from the inclusion of a comprehensive Service Plan as standard, covering the first three years or 45,000km.
At first glance, it’s clear to see that the all-new Kia Niro represents a step-change compared with the previous model. As a starting point, extensive active and passive safety features are included as a top priority across all trim levels.
These include the addition of Centre Side Airbag, Multi Collision Braking (MCB), Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA) and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA).
The dimensions of the new model have grown over its predecessor, with increases in length, width and wheelbase delivering a more spacious cabin environment.
Inside the vehicle, premium and eco-friendly materials create a minimalist contemporary feel.
The all-new Kia Niro features a bold and dynamic design inspired by Kia’s acclaimed ‘Opposites United’ philosophy, its stylish looks now combined with a high-tech two-tone body and optional contrasting C-Pillar.
The all-new Niro’s front-end features the latest evolution of Kia’s signature Tiger Face, while the side profile combines clean character lines with a bold Aero C-Pillar.
At the rear, these LED tail lights sit alongside uncomplicated surface treatments for a concise and aerodynamic styling combination.
The all-new Kia Niro has also benefited from an extensive ride and handling localisation programme, to ensure it is suitable for the unique road conditions and driving styles encountered in New Zealand.
The end result is a significant improvement over the outgoing model and comparable to European benchmarks.
Pricing for the new Kia Niro range starts from $39,990* and all models in the lineup qualify for a Clean Car rebate.
All-new Kia Niro range details
| Model | Kia $MRP = Maximum Retail Price | Clean Car Rebate |
| HEV | ||
| Light 1.6 Petrol DCT | $39,990* | -$3,418.28 |
| Earth 1.6 Petrol DCT | $44,990* | -$3,418.28 |
| Water 1.6 Petrol DCT | $53,990 | -$3,418.28 |
| GT-Line 1.6 Petrol DCT | $57,990 | -$3,418.28 |
| PHEV | ||
| Light 1.6 Petrol DCT | $49,990* | -$5,750 |
| Earth 1.6 Petrol DCT | $55,990 | -$5,750 |
| Water 1.6 Petrol DCT | $63,990 | -$5,750 |
| GT-Line 1.6 Petrol DCT | $67,990 | -$5,750 |
| EV | ||
| Light 64kW | $67,990 | -$8,625 |
| Water 64kW | $73,990 | -$8,625 |
Bold and stylish design
The all-new Kia Niro features a bold and dynamic design inspired by Kia’s acclaimed ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. Taking strong influence from the 2019 HabaNiro concept car, its stylish and bold crossover looks are combined with a high-tech two-tone body and optional contrasting C-Pillar.
The all-new Niro’s front-end features the latest evolution of Kia’s signature Tiger Face, which extends from the bonnet to the rugged bumper below. Striking ‘heartbeat’ daytime running lights (DRLs) add to the unique yet contemporary look, while a bold skid plate and cladding enhance the car’s rugged character.
The side profile combines clean character lines with a bold Aero C-Pillar, a highly distinctive shape with an aerodynamic vent helping to improve overall efficiency levels. These measures have enabled the all-new Kia Niro to achieve an impressive drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29. The meeting of the distinctive C-Pillars with the striking boomerang-shaped LED tail lights further add to the vehicle’s sporty stance.
At the rear, these LED tail lights sit alongside uncomplicated surface treatments for a concise and aerodynamic styling combination, while the heartbeat-shaped rear reflector, rugged skid plate and lower bumper help to complement the all-new Niro’s frontal design.
The second-generation Niro offers a choice of eight expressive exterior colours across the range including Cityscape Green which is new to Kia’s colour pallet, Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, Mineral Blue, Interstellar Grey, Runway Red, Steel Grey and Clear White, all sporting a gloss black lower cladding.
For the first time, the Niro range provides options of contrasting C-Pillar colours on the Water and GT-Line trims; Cityscape Green, Mineral Blue and Orange Delight can be combined with a Dark Black C-Pillar, while Snow White Pearl and Steel Grey can be paired with a Dark Grey C- Pillar. Finally, Aurora Black Pearl matches to a Light Grey C-Pillar while Interstellar Grey matches with an Orange C-Pillar.
Innovative and minimalist interior
Premium and eco-friendly materials create a minimalist contemporary feel while modern digital displays and interior controls have been optimally placed to further enhance the user-friendly operating experience.
The entry HEV Light comes with a 4.2” Multi-Function LCD cluster. The bold digital display has been designed to replace analogue gauges to maintain a high-tech image across the entire range. The EV Light trim incorporates the 10.25” digital cluster with an 8” AV touch screen.
The GT-Line and Water trim in both HEV, PHEV and EV variants provide a high-tech panoramic high-definition digital display screen that integrates both the instrument cluster (10.25”) and infotainment features (+10.25”) in one streamlined package. The system has been designed to be easy to use with pin sharp graphics and a highly intuitive layout, enabling users to personalise, access and operate the vehicle’s connectivity, usability and functionality features with ease and confidence.
Located below the centre screen lies an integrated touch sensitive infotainment and climate control system that removes clutter for a clean and coherent look and ensures front seat occupants can access these important controls without the need to scroll through multiple menus. Within easy reach of the driver lies the stylish centre-console incorporating a modern look with a high-gloss black surface finish. Here, the driver can operate the all-new Niro’s electronic dial-type shift lever (GT-Line & EV), the design of which saves space and is convenient and intuitive to operate. A variable large-capacity cupholder tray and a wireless Qi charging pad (Water & GT-Line) are also close to hand.
Across the range, the front seats incorporate convenient rear-mounted coat hangers and USB-C charging.
The all-new Niro’s dimensions have grown over its predecessor, with a length measuring 4,420mm, a width of 1,825mm, a height of 1,545mm HEV/1,570mm EV, and a wheelbase of 2,720mm (increased length 65mm HEV/45mm EV, width 20mm and wheelbase 20mm).
By repositioning the Niro’s 12V battery out of the wheelhouse and instead integrating it alongside the high-voltage battery at the bottom of the rear seats, boot load capacity for the Niro HEV model reaches an impressive 451 litres (VDA).
As a clear statement of Kia’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, the all-new Niro showcases recycled materials inside the cabin. The headlining is made from recycled PET materials, the seats are made from Bio PU with Tencel from eucalyptus tree fibres, and BTX free paint is used on the door panels to minimise the impact on the environment and reduce waste.
Powertrains and local tuning deliver an efficient and energetic driving experience
The all-new Kia Niro is available with three highly efficient FWD electrified powertrains, Hybrid Electric (HEV), Plug In Hybrid (PHEV) and full Electric (EV), and all variants are available with a choice of specification options: from the base Light trim to the newly appointed flagship GT-Line trim.
A highly efficient Smartstream 1.6-litre GDI engine featuring improved cooling, friction and combustion technologies helps power the HEV and PHEV models. The powerplant ensures competitive fuel efficiency, with the all-new Niro PHEV capable of achieving as little as 0.8L/100kms combined fuel consumption.
The four-cylinder unit produces a maximum output of 77.2kW along with 144 Nm of torque. When combined with the 32kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor, the HEV model produces a combined maximum power output of 104kW and 265 Nm of torque. In the PHEV variant a combination of 62kW electric motor allows a combined output of 134kW@5,700rpm.
The 1.6-litre GDI engine is mated to the second-generation 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (6DCT) that has been carefully engineered and optimised to increase efficiency and reduce weight.
The 64.8kWh electric option is paired with a Single Speed Transmission (reduction gear), provides 150kW power and 255Nm of torque, and a single charge driving range of 460km.
The EV variant of the all-new Niro combines its outstanding 460km (WLTP) range with a top speed of 167km/h and 0-100km/h taking just 7.8 seconds. Furthermore, Niro EV’s low drag coefficient of 0.29 ensures minimum aerodynamic resistance and maximum energy efficiency.
Topping up the EV’s 64.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery from 10-80 per cent takes just 43 minutes with a suitable DC rapid charger. The all-new Niro comes with a standard CCS2 charging port for added convenience. AC and DC charging times for the all-new Niro have improved over the outgoing model.
Kia’s smart regenerative braking system enables drivers to choose from a series of regeneration levels to easily slow the car and recuperate kinetic energy to maximise driving range. The system can calculate the amount of regeneration required using radar and road gradient information. The system allows the car to harvest the maximum amount of energy from its brakes while bringing the vehicle to a gentle halt.
The next-generation Niro EV gains in braked towing capacity which is now 750kg (previously 300kg) opening up the possibilities for zero-emission adventures. The HEV maximum braked towing capacity remains at a capable 1,300kg.
Tuned for roads Down Under
The all-new Kia Niro has undergone an extensive local ride and handling program to ensure it is suitable for New Zealand’s unique road conditions and driving styles.
The result is very positive handling characteristics with nice, flat body control and minimal roll coming into corners, providing driver confidence.
Impressive safety and convenience features
Safety has been a top priority during the development of the all-new Niro. As a result, the vehicle’s high-strength lightweight body features a multi-load front impact structure to ensure passengers benefit from outstanding levels of safety in the event of a front-end collision.
The active and passive safety credentials of the all-new Kia Niro range have also been boosted over the outgoing model adding Centre Side Airbag, Multi Collision Braking (MCB), Electronic Chromic Mirror (ECM), Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA) and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) as standard across all trim levels.
Other standard safety features include Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Rear View Monitor (RVM), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), and Rear Parking Sensors.
GT-Line trims gain Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist Reverse (PCA-R), GT-Line and Water feature Safe Exit Assist with lock
Kia Connect and convenience features fit seamlessly into everyday life
To suitably symbolise the change to GT-Line and Water as the new top trim, variants offer an extensive list of upgraded convenience and comfort features such as Heated Seats (Front), 10.25″ Digital Navigation Driver Cluster, Head-Up Display (HUD), Smart Power Tailgate and Wireless Qi Device Charger.
The Water and GT-Line variants, representing the two highest specification trims of the range, also receive an eight-speaker Harman/Kardon Premium Sound System.
Interior V2L is standard across the all-new Niro EV Water and GT-Line trims, a function offering significant charging flexibility. An Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) enables up to 3.6kW of power to be discharged from the vehicle’s battery.
Inside the cabin, a handy charging port located under the rear seats allows passengers to charge devices from the vehicle’s battery without the need for additional adapters.
An advanced Voice Car Control system featuring Natural Voice Recognition technology allows occupants to control key vehicle systems such as temperature and audio settings with ease.
**Introductory maximum retail price, limited-time offer
$MRP = Maximum Retail Price ^all pricing is plus on-road costs
Kia New Zealand Press Release 19 July 2022.
Please contact our Kia sales team for further information about the all-new Kia Niro.