For Kia to call the new Niro’s exterior design a refresh is an understatement. Designed with the brand’s “Opposites United” philosophy and draws heavily from 2019 HabaNiro concept (which should have told us everything we needed to know – I mean, it’s right there in the name), the design is good … interesting.
Sustainability, shown at the Seoul Mobility Show in 2021, is the name of the game with the new Niro, as Kia seeks to take steps to appeal to those who live their lives environmentally friendly.
The anterior fascia is a re-creation of Kia’s “tiger face”. Following a design trend set by vehicles like the Hyundai Kona and Santa Fe, Chevy Trailblazer, etc., the front is highlighted by LED DRLs and headlights that sit under the bonnet. The Niro has always been more of a wagon (with the Niro only four inches taller than a Mini Clubman and four inches lower than Kia’s own Seltos) than a full engine crossover. Apparently to enhance the “I’m a crossover, not a wagon” look, the black body extends down the face and along the body, giving the Niro a two-tone paint treatment that designers call high-tech.
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The most unique part of the Niro’s new design is in the rear. If you’re like me, the first thing that probably caught your eye is the contrasting strip between the taillights and the C-pillar. Kia says that the design “blends simple surface treatments with dynamic sections to emphasize modernity and provide another point of attraction for consumers.” I’d say it’s a bit distracting and makes it look unfinished or in a state of repair.
The C-pillar strip was taken from the HabaNiro concept. Luckily it was toned down from the original inception on the concept. Other than small taillights that blend into the rear quarters and a lower bumper that looks as if it was lifted from another car and placed upside down, the rear is rather simple.
Kia was serious when it mentioned sustainability. Using materials like a headliner made from recycled wallpaper, and seat fabric made from eucalyptus leaves, the entire interior of the Niro has been redesigned. With a steering wheel that wouldn’t look out of place i en landyacht fra 1970 ‘erne (It also looks like the wheel in the Genesis G80), the most notable difference in the interior is that the gear selector for buttons has been removed. Surprisingly, there are not the acres of screens we have seen in other cars lately.
No word on pricing or specifications for the US Niro, but Kia says the Niro will be available in HEV, PHEV and EV powertrains next year.
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