Hi-tech hybrid

SOMETIMES it’s great fun to gauge the reaction of someone who isn’t particularly interested in cars when I have a new vehicle to test.

For example, I picked up a friend in the Kia Niro and their first comment was: “Oh this is nice – what is it?” I explained it was the all-new Niro and got a puzzled look for my troubles. I added that it was a Kia and then the penny dropped.

Although my friend wasn’t particularly sold on or particularly bothered about the power and performance figures or, indeed, the quirky screen visuals that can monitor driving performance, they were impressed by a number of simple factors.

Firstly, by how modern, comfortable and roomy the car was. Secondly, by the economy – the car cost £22,795 and could deliver very impressive combined fuel economy of 74.3mpg.

And, finally, the car’s beautiful handling. The automatic gearbox was smooth and responsive and the cabin was very well-insulated against outside noise. And it was those factors that resulted in the Niro getting the thumbs-up.

The five-door, five-seat Niro is the South Korean company’s first dedicated hybrid model and is another compact crossover to compete in the highly-popular segment. In the Kia line-up, the Niro sits nicely between the cee’d hatchback and Sportage SUV models. Power comes from an allnew 1.6-litre 104bhp petrol engine and a 43bhp electric motor, which allows the Niro to complete the 0-60mph dash in 11.1 seconds (0-62 in 11.5 seconds) and then on to a top speed of 101mph. Carbon emissions are low at a combined 88g/km.

It’s a good-looking car with plenty of eye-catching features, such as Kia’s tigernose grille, the company’s trademark long bonnet, short overhangs, elevated headlights, bold wheel arches, a roof spoiler, high-mounted C-shaped tail lights, 16-inch alloys, front fog lights and privacy glass.

Move inside and the Niro, like other Kia models, has a wide dashboard that helps to accentuate the width of the car, and there is a wealth of technology to be explored.

All in all, the Kia Niro is a great all-rounder for the active family. It’s stylish, modern, practical, comfortable and good fun to drive.