Following the 2017 success of the conventional hybrid-powered Kia Niro, the company made good on its promise to add a plug-in hybrid variant for 2018 with approximately 41 km of range in EV mode.
It will also offer a total estimated range of more than 900 kilometres when the electric and gasoline systems are working together. A full charge can be achieved in about 2.5 hours via a 240V (Level 2) charger and under 9 hours via a 120V (Level 1) charger.
"Packed with all the same Guinness world-record holding functionality and fun drivability of our popular Niro hybrid, the new Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid crossover will offer even greater fuel economy when it arrives in Canada."
- Ted Lancaster, VP & COO, Kia Canada Inc.
The 2018 Kia Niro PHEV visually stands out with a subtly modified front grille insert and surround, hybrid blue exterior accents, available LED headlamps, a charge port door (on left front fender), an available 7-inch colour meter cluster with digital tachometer, plus "ECO/Plug-In" badges.
Look for the same six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as the Niro, as well as a choice of several drive modes including EV, Hybrid, Eco (default) and Sport for quicker transmission response.
Full Canadian details and pricing will be released at a later date.
The 2018 Niro PHEV becomes Kia's third plug-in model, joining the Optima PHEV and Soul EV. Find out how this efficient crossover handles in our Kia Niro First Drive review.