Kia Niro
Kia launched the eco-friendly Niro in 2017. The small crossover distinguishes itself in a crowded segment with its sharp-looking design, generous set of features, and standard hybrid powertrain. Owners of the Niro also appreciate its impressive fuel economy and comfortable interior, which is more spacious than you’d expect given its tidy footprint. On the downside, some find its driving dynamics uninspiring, especially when compared to class leaders such as the Mazda CX-30. It also lacks all-wheel drive. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Niro remains an appealing choice for shoppers who want a cute small car that cleverly balances efficiency, practicality, and affordability.
Kia launched the eco-friendly Niro in 2017. The small crossover distinguishes itself in a crowded segment with its sharp-looking design, generous set of features, and standard hybrid powertrain. Owners of the Niro also appreciate its impressive fuel economy and comfortable interior, which is more spacious than you’d expect given its tidy footprint. On the downside, some find its driving dynamics uninspiring, especially when compared to class leaders such as the Mazda CX-30. It also lacks all-wheel drive. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Niro remains an appealing choice for shoppers who want a cute small car that cleverly balances efficiency, practicality, and affordability.
Kia Niro Model Lineup
The Kia Niro is a subcompact crossover SUV with a hybrid powertrain and seating for up to five passengers. It fits into Kia's sport-ute lineup between the smaller Soul and larger Sportage, and it shares a platform and some components with its counterpart from Hyundai, the Ioniq. Kia also offers the model in two plug-in variants: the Niro Plug-in Hybrid and the Niro EV, which are reviewed separately.
In recent years, the Niro has been offered in a range of trims, including the entry-level FE and LX, the mid-level EX and LXS, the well-equipped Touring and LXS Special Edition, and the upscale Touring Special Edition and EX Premium.
The current generation of the Kia Niro debuted in 2017 and received a minor refresh in 2020 that included revised exterior styling and an upgraded infotainment system with an available 10.25-inch touchscreen. All versions come with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and most trims offer a suite of active safety features that includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Under the hood, the Niro employs a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor to deliver a combined output of 139 horsepower. A six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard across all trims and routes power to the front wheels (only). The Niro is primarily focused on fuel efficiency, with EPA ratings ranging from 43 to 50 mpg (combined) depending on the trim level.
Popular Trims
Kia Niro Owner Reviews
Average Rating for 2017
4.4
353 verified owner reviews
Top 2017 Reviews
Kerry R. from NC
Verified Owner · Aug, 2018
2017 Kia Niro FE / LX
This is a great car for simple A to B trips as well as longer roadtrips. We took our Niro on our summer vacation and was roomy enough for three individuals and luggage.
Donald G. from CA
Verified Owner · Jul, 2018
2017 Kia Niro EX
The car is easy to drive and is comfortable. You do need to familiarize yourself with its many tech features, AEB ,Adaptive cruise control, and others, but once you understand them, you will love them.
Jonathan F. from CA
Verified Owner · Jul, 2018
2017 Kia Niro EX
If you want the space of an SUV in a car. This is a great vehicle for you.
Deborah W. from TX
Verified Owner · Jun, 2018
2017 Kia Niro Touring
Nice car, well finished. A little underpowered, fuel efficiency is better in urban environment, I do a lot of highway driving so mileage isn't up to my expectations.
Keith R. from CA
Verified Owner · Jun, 2018
2017 Kia Niro FE / LX
Buy it I fit After trying 12 cars.
Erick A. from ID
Verified Owner · Jun, 2018
2017 Kia Niro Touring
Sporty, great fun to drive, super gas mileage as hybrid Niro getting 50mpg in city. Great music system and dog loves the backseat to stretch it out in.
Jimmy G. from NC
Verified Owner · Jun, 2018
2017 Kia Niro EX
Great handling, beautiful interior, feels safe.
Billie R. from MD
Verified Owner · Jun, 2018
2017 Kia Niro EX
Great vehicle, great gas mileage, easy to handle
William R. from SC
Verified Owner · Jun, 2018
2017 Kia Niro EX
Good all round vehicle. Can carry the kids, room for groceries, comfortable, well equipped. Excellent mileage and range. Good service intervals and low maintenance.
Dirk H. from IA
Verified Owner · Jun, 2018
2017 Kia Niro EX
I love the car, but I also love not paying a lot at the pump to drive it!