2020 Kia Niro review

For the 2020 model year, the Kia Niro hybrid exterior gets a refreshed front grille and headlights, plus new wheel designs. The 2020 Niro also gains an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen, along with a traffic-adaptive cruise control system. Also available as a plug-in hybrid and EV, the Niro hybrid features a 139-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic that sends power to the front wheels. All-wheel drive isn’t available despite its billing as an SUV.

At its most frugal, the Niro delivers an EPA highway estimate of more than 50 mpg. Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov. This puts it on par with the eco-themed Toyota Prius hatchback and notably better than most small SUVs. The 19 cubic feet of cargo space trails most small SUVs, but the cargo area is well shaped, and the low load floor makes it easy to load hefty items onboard.

The base Niro LX comes standard with a seven-inch touchscreen and smartphone connectivity. Yet moving only one rung higher, to the LXS trim, adds many driver-assist features, such as rear cross-traffic warning, blind-spot warning, and lane keeping assistance.