2023 Kia Niro

　　

2023 Kia Niro Review

byAlex NishimotoCorrespondent

　　Alex Nishimoto has worked in the automotive industry since 2007. He was a staff writer for MotorTrend for 10 years and since then has contributed to CNET, PRI, AutoWise and other publications.

　　The Kia Niro is a compact vehicle that splits the difference between SUV and hatchback. It's offered in three electrified flavors, including a traditional hybrid, a plug-in hybrid and an all-electric model. In this review, we're looking at the traditional hybrid, which is the most affordable of the bunch. All versions of the Niro receive a full redesign for 2023 and gain a larger footprint, improved interior and more tech features.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 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

　　$72/mo  for Niro LX

　　Niro LX

　　LX 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) - $26,590 MSRPEX 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) (Most Popular) - $29,190 MSRPEX Touring 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) - $31,490 MSRPSX 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) - $32,590 MSRPSX Touring 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6AM) - $34,890 MSRP

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　The Niro's exterior styling has been brought in line with its larger electrified sibling, the Kia EV6. Besides looking more futuristic, the new Niro is larger than before. Kia has slightly increased the Niro's overall length as well as its wheelbase for this generation. That means more space inside for passengers and cargo, the latter measuring 22.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The interior design has similarly been brought up to date, with an available dual 10.25-inch instrument panel and central touchscreen setup similar to the EV6's.

　　Though almost everything else is new, the Niro hybrid soldiers on with the old model's 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, which makes 139 horsepower and is backed by a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Just as before, that drivetrain is adequate for driving around town, but passing power could be better. That said, when you need a burst of acceleration, or simply want to drive more enthusiastically, activating Sport mode provides a noticeable improvement in throttle response. Also like before, the Niro hybrid returns exceptional fuel economy, with an EPA estimate of 49 mpg combined.

　　The 2023 Kia Niro hybrid's most direct competitor is likely the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, though it might also be cross-shopped against hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius. And with its increased dimensions, it could arguably be considered against compact crossover SUVs like the hybrid version of the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and even its own sibling, the Kia Sportage Hybrid. Now that it's been thoroughly updated, the Kia Niro is certainly worth a look if you're in the market for a small yet spacious hybrid. Check out the Expert Rating below to get our test team's full report on the Niro's comfort, real-world fuel economy 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.

　　Good

　　8.0

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　How does the Niro drive? The Niro is poised and easygoing at low speeds. But it's less endearing when you need a burst of speed. Considering the Toyota Prius' newly improved performance credentials, the Niro's athleticism is now subpar. At our test track, the Niro accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 9.7 seconds. That's slow for a modern hybrid, and it feels that way on the road too.

　　Beyond the lackluster acceleration, the Niro also comes up short in athleticism. Make some quick direction changes and the Niro's chassis gets very unsettled — it feels flexible and unsturdy. There's minimal feedback coming through the steering wheel, though the light weighting feels appropriate for this type of vehicle. The Niro is clearly much more at home in an urban environment.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the Niro? The Niro has impressive road manners, with a quiet cabin that only gets noisy under hard acceleration. At city speeds, it's extremely pleasant. Similarly, the suspension is tuned to keep things cushy over bumps in the road. The Niro is nice and relaxing for a commute home. The seats are supportive and easy to adjust, but they feel slightly too firm. A bit more padding would go a long way to make long-distance driving more comfortable.

　　Standard dual-zone climate control is a great feature to have, and the system worked effectively in our testing. The optional ventilation for the front seats is a nice add-on.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below