2019 Kia Niro EV SUV

Kia unveiled the latest addition to its Niro crossover lineup at the 2018 Paris Motor Show. The 2019 Kia Niro EV (known as the e-Niro overseas) will join the existing hybrid and plug-in hybrid Niro models when it goes on sale at the end of 2018. According to Kia, highlights include a targeted range of 240 miles — almost dead even with the Chevy Bolt EV — and healthy output figures of 201 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque.This Niro Goes Far-o (Sorry) Power will come from a 64-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack that actually yields a higher range estimate of 301 miles for the European market. On our side of the pond, however, the EPA uses a stricter methodology, which is why Kia's quoting 240 miles for U.S. drivers. When you put your foot in it, Kia claims the Niro EV will get to 60 mph in under 8 seconds, and the car should feel quicker still around town, thanks to the electric motor's instantaneous torque response. To help you maximize your real-world range, Kia provides a Coasting Guide Control system (CGC) that serves as a driving coach. Using map data combined with your navigation route, CGC will indicate the optimal time to lift off the accelerator and coast, allowing for energy recovery through regenerative braking. There are also two "shift paddles" flanking the steering wheel that give the driver three distinct levels of regenerative braking strength.More Conventional Style From the outside, the 2019 Niro EV has a few styling echoes of the concept shown earlier this year at the Consumer Electronics Show. The production model seen in Paris is understandably more conventional, especially at the rear of the car. The nose of the Niro EV retains the concept's solid plastic "grille," but it forgoes the thin band of LEDs that made up the concept's headlights in favor of more commonplace lighting. Unlike the exterior, the Niro EV's interior is a bit more modern than the concept car's, though overall, the design doesn't break new ground. The production model will feature a protruding panel in the center console with a dial in place of a traditional gear selector lever. It appears that the interior materials will be similar to those in other Kia products, as opposed to the futuristic glossy white inserts found in some other EVs. Mounted atop the dash is a line of LED lights that indicate remaining battery capacity. Like seemingly every new vehicle today, the Niro EV will offer a slew of advanced safety features, including forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, a driver attention monitor and lane trace assist. There will also be a low-level automated driving system that should relieve the driver of some responsibilities in dense traffic conditions. How Does It Drive? As of this writing, we haven't had any seat time in the 2019 Kia Niro EV. But stay tuned for our upcoming First Drive with extensive driving and usability impressions.

2019 Kia Niro EV SUV

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