Kia has today unveiled the first official images of the sporty and versatile Niro – an all-new Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) that’s set to add a fresh dimension to the global compact SUV market.
The styling of the Niro was led by Kia’s design centers in California, USA and Namyang, Korea and incorporates the practicality and aesthetic allure of a compact SUV, with a sleek, aerodynamic body and subtly sculptured surfaces.
Highlighting the raised rear haunches that endow the HUV with an athletic stance, the image also reveals high-mounted LED taillights that complement an uncluttered rear end. The slim character line and rear windows emphasize the car’s sleek profile, while allowing greater room for the Niro’s muscular wheel arches.
The all-new Kia Niro is the first model to be based on Kia’s new dedicated eco-car platform, and the HUV is set to achieve a sub-90 g/km CO2 emissions rating (combined, based on the New European Driving Cycle) thanks to its all-new downsized gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.
The Niro HUV will be unveiled to the world for the first time at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show in February, and will demonstrate the considerable steps the brand has made in delivering comfortable, fun-to-drive vehicles that lead the way in low-emission motoring.