Kia Niro

Launched in 2018 as the world’s first purpose-built SUV designed solely for hybrid/EV power, the Niro announced Kia as a significant player in the vital low emission vehicle space.

Available with three powertrain solutions – Hybrid Electric, Plug-in Hybrid Electric, and pure Battery Electric – the latter two iterations of Niro are both eligible for Clean Car Program rebates of $5750 and $8625 respectively.

The Niro Plug-in Hybrid LX-Plus starts at $57,990 + ORCs and the entry to full electric motivation in the Niro EX EV at $77,990 + ORCs.

The range is specified generously with a full suite of driver assist technologies like Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go feature, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and Auto Light Control. All but the EX-specification models offer Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Blind-Spot Collision Warning, while a large 8.0-inch touchscreen on entry spec and 10.25-inch with on premium models provides all the infotainment options you would expect, along with satellite navigation.

The Niro PHEV uses a combination of a 1.6-litre petrol engine and electric motor/8.9kWh Li-ion battery combination that deliver fuel-sipping economy.

At the heart of the EV’s all-electric power delivery is a 64kWh lithium-ion battery that provides 150kW of peak power and 395Nm of torque. The battery delivers a driving range of up to 455km from fully charge.

All Niro models benefit from a 5-year / 100,000km vehicle warranty programme, 5 years roadside assistance and a 7-year / 160,000km warranty on the high voltage drive battery.