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NEW 2023 Recommended

2025 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid

EX wagon Front 1.6-liter 4 (180 hp) plugin hybrid (Regular Gasoline) Sequential 6-speed

MSRP: $34490 ~ $40790

2025 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid

For almost any modern vehicle category, there’s a Kia that’s worth considering buying. Among small and midsized SUVs, models like the Sportage and Sorento rank near the top in their respective classes for their nice interiors, ride comfort, and appropriately powerful engines. SUVs like the Telluride have ride comfort, interior space, and overall value that earn it regular placement near the top of Consumer Reports’ ratings. Fuel economy across the brand is generally good, but hybrid and plug-in hybrid options are available for even more miles per gallon. Plug-in hybrid options have useful all-electric driving range. Kia EVs are generally competent, ranging from compact sedans up to a three-row SUV. Kia’s reliability scores have been improving, but other brands score higher in our rankings. Specific Kia models have earned our recommendation among used cars.

The Niro PHEV splits the difference between the standard hybrid and the Niro EV. It has an estimated electric driving range of 33 miles, after which it transitions to regular hybrid operation. By virtue of its electric range and great fuel economy, it has a total range of over 500 miles. It takes three hours to charge the 11 kWh battery using 240 volt. Regardless of the mode it is in, the powertrain seamlessly blends electric and gas power, and we prefer the Niro's smooth-shifting six-speed dual-clutch automatic over the CVTs found in most hybrids. The ride is commendably comfortable, the cabin is a bit loud due to a mix of road, tire and wind noise. Handling is responsive and secure. Although it isn't available with all-wheel drive, the Niro provides similar utility to most small SUVs, with a modest cargo area and a relatively roomy rear seat. The controls are mostly intuitive but the dual panel for audio and climate controls is unnecessary and distracting. Rear three-quarter visibility is hurt by the lack of a third side window. Standard active safety features include AEB with pedestrian detection, AEB highway, BSW, and RCTW.


Car Specifications

AC Acceptance Rate (kW)3.3
AC Charge Speed @ 32A10.6
AC Charge Speed @ 40A10.6
AC Charge Speed @ 50A10.6
AC Charge Speed @ 80A10.6
Air Pollution Score6
Battery Capacity (kWh)11.1
Charge Port LocationFront Left Middle
Daily Range23
DC Acceptance Rate (kW)0.0
DC Charge Speed @ 150kW0.0
DC Charge Speed @ 350kW0.0
DC Charge Speed @ 50kW0.0
DC Charge Speed Tesla NACS0.0
EPA City MPG49
EPA City MPGe113
EPA Combined MPG48
EPA Combined MPGe108
EPA Highway MPG47
EPA Highway MPGe102
EPA Mile Per kWh3.2
Front Head Room6.0
Front Leg Room44.0
Front Shoulder Room55.5
Greenhouse Gas Score10
Height61
Length174
Luggage4+0
Max AC Charge Rate Miles Added per Hour10.6
Max Load860
Max Seating Capacity5
Plug TypeJ1772
Range EPA Electric Miles33
Rear Head Room4.5
Rear Leg Room31.0
Rear Shoulder Room54.5
SmartwayYes
Weight3365
Wheel Base107
Width72

Fuel Economy Specifications

Annual Energy Consumption (kWh)3750.0
Annual Energy Cost (Dollar)560.0
Annual Energy PHEV Cost465.0
Annual Fuel Consumption (Gal)255.0
Annual Fuel Cost (Dollar)830.0
Annual Fuel Energy Cost610.0
Cruse Range (Miles)490
Energy Cost per 25 Miles1.0
Fuel Cost per 25 Miles2.0
Over All MPG Gas Hybrid47

Ratings

Category Car Count22
Category NameSmall sedans/hatchbacks
Overall Rank3
Overall Test Score Max82.0
Overall Test Score Min38.0
Primary Car TypeSedans & Hatchbacks
Road Test Rank1
Road Test Score Max87.0
Road Test Score Min35.0

Test Results

Acceleration 0-60 MPH (secs)7.4
Avoidance Speed (MPH)54.0
Braking from 60 MPH (ft)136
City MPG38
Highway MPG54
Overall MPG47