Introducing the Kia Niro, a new stylish small SUV offering their new first petrol-electric hybrid ever sold on UK shores. It combines a petrol engine with a modestly powerful electric motor in a way that’s broadly similar to a Toyota Prius. The Niro differs from the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4, the only other full hybrid small SUV in the class, because it is front-wheel drive and a petrol as opposed to diesel engine.

The Niro comes in 4 trim levels and only the lower two trims come with 16” alloy wheels and economy tyres necessary to deliver the 88g/km Co2 emissions and 70 mpg plus official fuel economy on which the cars ownership case may rest. The Niro doesn’t suffer from the frustrating acceleration of some hybrids rarely is there the feeling that its revving to the red line but not going anywhere. However, you may need to go slightly harder on the throttle to get the car into a gap in traffic. The however the Niro runs best when a lower cruising speeds and you’ll be rewarded with a hushed engine noise and fairly quiet ride. We expect the Niro fitted with the 18” alloy wheels as standard with the 2 upper trim levels will affect both the comfort, steering and economy of the car so please keep this is mind before you buy.

The Niro isn’t as high riding as other smaller Suv’s. Most people will have to lower themselves into the driver’s seat slightly and the lower driving position doesn’t offer quite as good visibility compared to others within its class. However interior space is very impressive, particularly for rear seat passengers, where large adults are better looked after, as well as a sizeable boot too compared to most of its rivals, which I’m sure will be big selling features for the car. 

Interior quality is another plus point for the Niro with most of the buttons and knobs looking and feeling robust. The seats are also comfy enough for those longer journeys.

If you opt for the chart topping First Edition for just under 27k its as well equipped as you would expect. It has 8.0 inch colour touchscreen with Sat Nav, A JBL premium stereo system, wireless phone charging, heated front & rear seats, adaptive cruise control all as standard as well as a host of modern safety systems. Kia have been generous with specification throughout the whole range, So expect value for money in all 4 trims. Vehicle Lease Management expect the mid-range 2 trim to be the best seller as it will comprise both price and specification.

So if you are interested in this car please contact Vehicle Lease Management today on 01276 506146 or email sales@vehicleleasemanagement.co.uk for more details.