The current edition of the Kia Niro offers hybrid and plug-in drivetrains. From the next season, buyers will be able to see it as an all-electric vehicle. Compact and versatile, the SUV is currently one of the most attractive electrified vehicles in the world. If anyone can compete with Tesla’s products, it will be 2019 Kia Niro.
The release date of the EV should be in 2018, but the vehicle arrives as 2019 Kia Niro. It will use AWD and PHEV systems. Nevertheless, the company is not dropping hybrid variant. But, these models are more or less predictable. We can assume that no radical changes in mileage and price will happen next season. On the other hand, we still have no clue how much will electric version cost.
2019 Kia Niro Hybrid
The first model appeared in 2017 was a hybrid. A plug-in variant is the 2018 year edition. However, there are big differences between these two. The base engine of the 2019 Kia Niro hybrid will be the same 1.6-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine. The full parallel hybrid system joins the party as a support in this combo. Two motors are delivering 139 horses. Alone, petrol unit is good for 104 hp, and AC synchronous permanent magnet battery can make 43 hp.
Torque is on another level. Again, the conventional unit is good for 110 pound-feet and electric unit creates 125 lb-ft. Together, torque output is 195 lb-ft. all energy goes through a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The entire system returns 52 mpg in city and 49 mpg on the highway.
The front-wheel drive system is standard. The 2019 Kia Niro hybrid is not going to offer the AWD. Independent rear suspension provides a smooth ride. Curb weight of the crossover is 3,100 lbs, while the gross weight raises for about 1,000 pounds.
The 2019 Kia Niro hybrid is coming in four trim levels. The entry-level model is FE, while LX costs slightly more. Mid-range SUV is EX, while the most equipped unit is Touring.
2019 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid
This is the second edition of the SUV launched in 2018. The 2019 Kia Niro plug-in hybrid, or PHEV, will use the similar drivetrain. Conventional, petrol unit is the same. However, a 60 hp-rated electric battery joins it. Additionally, there is a light and compact Li-Ion battery under the car. The range using only the electric power is up to 26 miles. Also, estimated MPGe is 110/100 for the city and open road. Classic mpg is 48/44.
The same dual-clutch 6-speed automatic gearbox transfers the power. Once again, there is no all-wheel drive in the offer. All power is going to be distributed to front wheels. The 2019 Kia Niro PHEV is heavier than the hybrid model. This version adds about 300 pounds for a total curb weight of 3,400 lbs, and gross 4,400 pounds.
2019 Kia Niro EV
Finally, we will see the 2019 Kia Niro all-electric vehicle. As the third chapter of this electrification series, Kia leaves the completely electrified unit for the end. Well, we are going to see improved versions of each of these in future, but under the spotlight in 2019 will definitely be the EV.
We don’t have closer info about this unit. We could see spy photos. However, the drivetrain is what causes more interest. Rumors are informing about an electric motor that is ready to deliver 200 and more horsepower. Also, there is a 64 kW lithium-polymer battery. This combination can make the 2019 Kia Niro EV run 240 miles before recharging. These numbers will make the crossover a competitor to Chevy Bolt, which offers similar output. Another competitor will be Hyundai Kona EV. However, the concept is not going to be the same as the production model. But, test mule is telling that we could see the final version very soon.
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