Kia updates Niro HEV, PHEV for 2025 model year

MANILA: The North American arm of Kia has revealed the updated Niro Hybrid (HEV) and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) for model year 2025.

The said models come in multiple variants each, with a price ranging from $26,990-$35,390 (P1.514 million-P1.9845 million at current exchange rates) for the HEV version and from $34,490-$40,790 (P1.933 million-P2.289 million) for the PHEV variants. 

With regards to feature updates, the PHEV trims received a new Cold Weather Package, which includes a positive temperative coefficient (PTC) heater and heated rear seats. According to Kia, a PTC is a faster, more efficient cabin heater that can help reduce energy consumption and thus increase the Niro’s all-electric range. The model’s safety kit was likewise expanded with rear seatbelt pre-tensioners. 

Like the previous version sold in North America, the updated Niro uses a 1.6-liter inline-4 gasoline four-banger for both the HEV and PHEV variants. Alone, the said engine can produce up to 103 horsepower (hp) and 144 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. 

Combined outputs for the model go up to 180 hp and 265 Nm of torque for the PHEV model. The HEV, meanwhile, can churn out 139 hp and 265 Nm of torque. 

The updated Kia crossover likewise kept the same 240-volt and 360-volt batteries for the HEV and PHEV models, respectively. Also retained is a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox, as well as a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The PHEV model, in particular, also boasts an all-electric range of up to 53 kilometers. 

Other notable features of the Niro HEV and PHEV include an advanced driver-assist suite, power-adjustable seating, and vegan leather upholstery, among others. Higher-spec trims also get a Harman Kardon sound system and an eight-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

At the moment, the Niro is promoted as one of the most affordable electrified Kia models in South Korea and North America. Kia Philippines, meanwhile, is yet to introduce a hybrid in the local market, but it is already selling the EV6 locally at P3.788 million. 

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