Overview

The 2022 Kia Niro is powered by a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 104-hp, 109-lb-ft of torque 1.6-liter I-4 engine paired to a 43-hp, 125-lb-ft of torque electric motor that has a combined power output of 139 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed dual-clutch automatic routes power to the front wheels. The base Kia Niro FE delivers an impressive EPA-rated 52/49 mpg city/highway but mid-level Niros are rated at 51/46 mpg. The range-topping Touring model has the lowest fuel economy rating at 46/40 mpg. In Motor Trend testing, the Kia Niro hit 60 mph in 8.7 seconds and stopped from 60 mph in 134 feet.

The Niro FE comes standard with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, 16-inch wheels, automatic headlights, rear spoiler, matte black front grille, a 4.2-inch instrument cluster display, woven and knit cloth seats, six-way adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Drive Mode Select (Active Eco and Sport modes). At the top end of the Niro range is the Touring model, which comes loaded with 18-inch alloy wheels, power-folding heated side-view mirrors, Gloss Black front grille, power moonroof, satin chrome inside door handles, leather upholstery, 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, rear A/C vents, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with navigation, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, rear USB charger, and a wireless phone charger.

Safety

The 2022 Kia Niro is available with a suite of driver assist safety features: Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and adaptive cruise control are standard on the Touring model and optional on the LX and EX models (not available on the FE model). Blind-spot monitoring with Lane Change Assist and rear cross traffic alert are standard on the EX and Touring models (not available on the FE or LX models). A rearview camera is standard;  front and rear parking sensors are standard on the Touring model.