Performance

Powered by a 1.6-liter engine and a hybrid system, the 2023 Kia Niro offers 139 horsepower. It can make 195 pound-feet of torque and uses a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. You have the opportunity to change things up a bit when driving, as there are both Sport and Eco modes. A real advantage to driving the Kia Niro is that you won't have to fill up your gas tank that often. It can achieve up to 54 miles per gallon, which is pretty amazing.

If you opt for the Niro plug-in hybrid powertrain, you'll be treated to additional power thanks to a beefed up electric motor for a combined 180 horsepower. The Niro PHEV options also add the benefit of all-electric driving range.

Kia Niro EV Performance

The fully electric Niro EV is actually the most powerful offering from Kia options bearing the Niro namesake. The new Kia Niro EV can generate 201 horsepower and offers up three driving modes of Eco, Normal & Sport to influence the vehicle's efficiency and acceleration.

Technology and Interior Comfort

As we mentioned earlier, the LX comes with an eight-inch touchscreen. Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and multiple charging ports in the first and second rows are found in every trim in the lineup. The other four trims all have 10.25-inch touchscreens. This larger touchscreen is equipped with Kia Connect technology, SiriusXM, and integrated navigation. To keep everyone comfortable, Kia has given this model a dual-zone climate control system.

The front seats can be heated and ventilated, and the available power-adjustable driver's seat has power lumbar adjustment. For extra warmth, the steering wheel can be heated, too. One of the futuristic components that can be built into the vehicle is the Digital Key program. This program allows users to program mobile devices to act as virtual keys. These virtual keys can be shared with others in case someone has to quickly borrow the vehicle for a few hours.

Safety Features

The Kia Niro is fortunate to have a full set of driver-assist systems. Along with forward collision alert, it has emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist. Further, it can warn you when you're drifting out of your lane and help you correct your steering if necessary.

Trim Levels

• The LX is the first of the five trim options for 2023. This trim features an eight-inch touchscreen and remote keyless entry, and it has driver-assist technologies that we'll touch on later in this overview. LED daytime running lights and taillights help the LX feel modern.
• The EX is the second available trim, and it's been upgraded with roof rails and automatic rain-sensing wipers. It comes with vegan leather and cloth upholstery, as well as heated front seats and wireless charging.
• The EX Touring takes things a step further with a sunroof, LED fog lights, and alloy sport pedals, among other upgrades.
• The top two trims are the SX and SX Touring. These both come with smart power tailgates and heated steering wheels, in addition to premium sound systems, vegan leather upholstery, and driver's seat memory. The SX Touring is the only trim to have LED projector headlights, and like the EX Touring, it has sport pedals and black 18-inch wheels.