2017 Kia Niro review

1. Hybrid powertrain cuts fuel consumption 

Kia’s first hybrid crossover blends the benefits of crossover space without the hit to fuel economy. All trims are equipped with the same 1.6L four-cylinder engine and 43-hp electric motor to make the most of each drop of fuel, powering your road trips even further. The 2017 Kia Niro gets an EPA-estimated 52 mpg in city driving in the FE trim, which translates into nearly 600 miles of range on a single tank of gas.

2. Interior options that improve comfort 

While the base FE trim is rather spartan, you can find luxuries throughout the lineup that will make long road trips more comfortable. The LX adds features like a push-button start, a rear center armrest with cupholders, and a storage tray for the rear underfloor compartment. EX trims add heated front seats, rear air conditioning vents, an additional USB charging port, and blind-spot monitoring. Touring trims add standard sunroof, driver’s seat memory settings, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, and leather seats. 

3. Standard smartphone connectivity 

The standard infotainment screen is a seen-inch unit that allows for wired Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ connectivity. Touring models give you a larger eight-inch infotainment screen with built-in navigation and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon^® premium sound system. An additional USB port adds charging options for passengers on LX trims and above. 

4. Compact crossover utility 

Thanks to its crossover shape, there is plenty of room for up to five passengers and plenty of gear. The hybrid system’s battery placement underneath the rear seats means the Kia Niro has plenty of space inside without compromising passenger or cargo capacity. LX trims add the functionality of a rear underfloor cargo tray, while all models offer an ample 19.4 cu-ft of cargo space behind the rear seats and 54.5 cu-ft of space with the seats folded flat. 

5. Daring Styling 

Unlike many other hybrid vehicles of the era, the 2017 Kia Niro breaks the mold on design. The look much more daring and rugged crossover than an aerodynamic hybrid. Designers crafted a vehicle you would want to be seen in while still focusing on aerodynamics, weight savings, and overall driving range. If you want a crossover that is easy on gas without looking like a hybrid, consider the Kia Niro.