2022 Kia Niro

　　

2022 Kia Niro Review

byMark TakahashiCorrespondent

　　Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the zzdcar YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.

　　The 2022 Kia Niro is available in three versions. This particular review covers the hybrid model, while the plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions are covered separately. All of these models straddle the line between hatchbacks and subcompact SUVs, and they all benefit from a slightly elevated ride height and a large rear hatch for easier cargo loading. The base model Niro is estimated to return up to 50 mpg in combined driving, which is an admirable figure even if it's not quite as fuel-efficient as some rivals.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Kia Niro LX 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$75/mo  for Niro LX

　　Niro LX

　　LX 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) (Most Popular) - $24,690 MSRPLXS 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) - $26,090 MSRPLXS SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) - $27,590 MSRPTouring SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) - $29,890 MSRPEX Premium 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) - $31,990 MSRP

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　For 2022, the Kia Niro returns largely unchanged. There are a few standard features that are shuffled between trim levels, and last year's Touring trim is replaced with a new LXS Special Edition. As such, the Niro remains a strong choice among small hybrids, though we suggest checking out the Honda Insight and stalwart Toyota Prius since they remain our top hybrid picks. You can check out where the Niro shines and where it could use some improvement in the Expert Rating below.

　　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.

　　Good

　　7.7

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.0/10

　　How does the Niro drive? The Niro isn't going to thrill you. In our testing we measured 0-60 mph in 9.7 seconds. That's a tad slow but enough to get you where you're going. The dual-clutch automatic transmission is somewhat slow to shift, but it's smooth and jerk-free. We prefer it to the conventional continuously variable transmissions that most hybrids are equipped with.

　　The steering is direct and has an appropriate amount of heft to it, which makes it easy to maneuver the Niro on the highway or around a parking lot. Unfortunately, the steering is devoid of road feedback. That last part only matters because the Niro's handling is surprisingly nimble but less engaging because it lacks connection. Emergency-stopping performance is lackluster, but at least the brakes are relatively easy to control for smooth stops on your daily commute.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the Niro? The Niro is pretty comfortable overall. The front seats feature optional heat and ventilation, a rarity in this class, and are supportive with firm cushioning. The rear seats are decently comfortable as well.

　　The Niro rides smoothly over most surfaces, making it a pleasant commuter. The cabin remains fairly quiet at highway speeds, though you'll likely hear the engine working hard when you accelerate with gusto. The dual-zone climate control system is simple to use and works effectively with rear vents helping to distribute airflow to backseat passengers.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below