Joining the likes of its larger family member, the Optima PHEV, the new Kia Niro HEV has arrived in Europe.
Just like its larger sibling, it will be offered for sale on the Old Continent afterwards this year, right after it starts rolling off the assembly line in May.
The dedicated hybrid crossover uses a 1.6-liter "Kappa" GDI engine, with 105 PS (104 HP) and 147 Nm (108lb-ft) of torque, paired to a 32 kW electric motor and a 1.56 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack, for a total output of 141 PS (139 HP) and 264 Nm (195lb-ft) of torque. Power is transferred to the road through a six-speed double-clutch transmission, with Kia claiming that peak torque is available in first gear.
Engineered from the ground up as a dedicated hybrid vehicle, the new Kia Niro promises high levels of practicality and comfortable interior dimensions, despite its reduced size, with "class-leading headroom" and a cargo capacity of 421 liters. A full-size spare wheel can be fitted beneath the boot floor, depending on the market.
Visitors to the 2016 Geneva Motor Show will get to see the Niro on display at the company's stand, where it breaths the same air as the Optima Sportswagon and Optima Plug-in hybrid.