KiaNiro Plug-In Hybrid

　　

2023 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　The 2023 Kia Niro lineup returns with three updated models, including the Plug-In Hybrid with increased electric range, more space, and striking new interior and exterior style. The previous Niro was a slow seller in Kia's lineup, and drab styling didn't help matters. This new Niro won't need to contend with that problem. The new design is more streamlined and muscular, looking more like a small SUV than a confused hatchback. Even the new quasi-cherry blossom wheels look inspired. The chevron-shape integrated into the car's rear pillar won't suit everyone (Kia calls it an Aero Blade and claims it offers some aerodynamic benefits), but it can be painted in the body color to minimize its effect.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below

　　

Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid PHEV Insights

Trim:Niro Plug-In Hybrid EX

　　EX 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid 6AM) (Most Popular) - $33,840 MSRPSX Touring 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid 6AM) - $39,590 MSRP

　　

All Electric Range

　　33 miles

　　EPA Estimated Electric Range

　　The Niro Plug-In Hybrid will automatically switch to gas when the electric battery is low.Electric cars typically experience 1-2% of range loss per year with slightly faster degradation over the first 50,000 miles as the car settles into its long term state, according to Recurrent's study of 15,000 EVs.

　　Estimated range mapThis map is a visual representation of the possible one-way and round-trips by this vehicle (on a full charge) from the geometric center of Rutland, North Dakota. The depicted ranges are based on the estimated new vehicle range value provided by the EPA, rounded down to miles for one-way and miles for round-trip. Actual range will vary depending on the condition of this vehicle’s battery pack, how you drive, driving conditions and other factors.Map display generated using: © openrouteservice.org by HeiGIT | Map data © Recurrent contributors | Recurrent

　　from 58067

　　

EV Battery Warranty

　　10 yrs or 100,000 milesThe federal government requires that EV batteries be warrantied for a minimum of eight years or 100,000 miles. The EV battery warranty includes replacement if your battery capacity drops below a certain percentage of the original capacity.

　　

Charging at Home

　　2.8 hours

　　Total Charging Time (240V outlet)

　　

EV Tax Credits & Rebates

　　$400

　　Available Rebates. Restrictions apply.

　　Utility EV Charger Offer

　　$400

　　Restrictions: Otter Tail Power offers EV owners a rebate of up to $400 towards the installation of a Level 2 charging station. To qualify for this rebate, the customer and/or charging station must meet the following requirements: Receive electricity from Otter Tail Power.

　　To learn more, visit Recurrent

　　See All PHEV incentives

　　

Cost to Drive

　　$72/mo

　　Niro Plug-In Hybrid

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　SUV Avg.

　　Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　See All PHEV Insights

　　Thanks to a slightly longer length and wheelbase (the space between front and rear wheels), there are gains in passenger room. The Niro has always felt roomier than it appears from outside, but the 2023 model does even better with a bit more rear legroom. It's all complemented by an impressive and futuristic cabin, highlighted by dual 10.25-inch digital displays. The sloping dash and door panels accentuate the clean yet tech-oriented design.

　　Like its predecessor, the 2023 Niro Plug-In Hybrid uses a four-cylinder gas engine paired with an electric motor. But an 11.1-kWh battery pack stores enough energy for an EPA-estimated 33 all-electric miles on a full charge. This actually makes the plug-in hybrid the sweet spot in the Niro lineup, with better acceleration than the standard hybrid model and greater maximum range than the electric Niro with combined gas and electric operation. The PHEV also has a nifty feature that allows you to store electric power for when it's most useful, for example on city streets at the start and end of a typical commute. Kia says the battery can fully recharge in less than three hours on a Level 2 charger.

　　Overall we're impressed with the new Niro Plug-In Hybrid and find it to be a compelling pick among rivals that include plug-in versions of the Subaru Crosstrek, Ford Escape, and Toyota Prius and RAV4. Check out our test team's Expert Rating for a complete evaluation of the Niro PHEV's comfort, real-world efficiency and more.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Great

　　8.1

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the Niro Plug-In Hybrid drive? The Niro Plug-In Hybrid's performance numbers aren't particularly impressive. For example, our test vehicle accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds at the zzdcar test track. That's noticeably slower than the Toyota Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime. But the real-world driving experience is just fine for a compact plug-in hybrid SUV. It feels snappy around town and the transmission shifts smoothly. The transition from electric to gasoline power is smooth too.

　　Likewise, the Niro PHEV's handling is impressive in its overall competence. The steering is fairly accurate, and the Niro maintains its composure on a twisty road and feels stable on the highway. Braking, too, is a pleasing balance of good stopping power and predictable, smooth stopping around town.

　　

Comfort

8.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Niro Plug-In Hybrid? The Niro Plug-In Hybrid is quiet and comfortable, with little engine or road noise at highway speeds. The ride is compliant without being overly soft or floaty. The front seats are well shaped and offer decent support, but we found the padding a bit firm. We wouldn't call it uncomfortable, but we hope the seats break in with some more use. The rear seat, too, is a bit firm and flat. Heated seats are standard for the front seats and available for the rear. Also optional: a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats.

　　The standard dual-zone automatic climate control works well, keeping the cabin at a comfortable temperature without blasting the fans the entire time. The vents are well placed, including those for rear passengers. The climate control panel is easy to reach, though you might have to take your eyes off the road to do more than adjust the temperature.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below