We’ve all heard it said, “You can’t be everything to everyone”. Well, the all new 2017 Kia Niro may have just proved otherwise. Kia Motors invited us to San Antonio, Texas to experience their newest crossover hybrid utility vehicle first hand. After getting to spend some quality time in the driver’s seat and hearing from the executives and designer, it’s safe to say this car can take you just about anywhere you want to go and look good doing it. No sacrifices and no regrets.
Style
It may seem vain to address appearance first but we know that first impressions can make all the difference. Mirroring the rest of the Kia line up, the Niro is exceptionally pleasing to the eye. However, its design concept doesn’t uniquely stand out the way many hybrids are known to do. Actually, that’s kind of the point.
The Niro’s ability to blend in and deliver top ratings in efficiency is exactly the reason it’s appealing to so many consumers. “People buy hybrids in spite of their styling,” said Kia designer Michael Torpey during the Niro’s NPI in San Antonio, TX. Kia feels you shouldn’t have to sacrifice style for efficiency.
Efficiency
Speaking of efficiency, the Kia Niro holds records for its efficiency, world records actually. Kia set the Guinness World Record with the Niro for the lowest fuel consumption driving across the US from coast to coast. It scored an impressive 76.6 mpg on its journey traveling 3,715.4 miles from Los Angeles City Hall to New York City Hall on just over four tanks of gas for a total of 48.5 gallons. This proves the Kia Niro is more than prepared for your next road trip too.
Technology
No matter what destination you have in mind, you will not only be getting amazing mileage but you will be accompanied by impressive technology too. As you place your phone to wirelessly charge in its dedicated spot in the console, you’ll immediately notice Kia’s outstanding UVO infotainment system, a standard 7-inch touch screen, Harman Kardon’s Clari-Fi technology, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto making sure you stay connected wherever the road may lead.
Safety is a priority in every vehicle Kia manufactures and the Niro was no exception. Blind spot detection with rear cross traffic alert and lane change assist, smart cruise control, lane departure warning and autonomous braking are just a few of the advanced driver safety technologies we love seeing the Kia Niro.
Need a few travel ideas for your own Niro road trip? Consider exploring all the sights of San Antonio, Texas. A day trip to the Alamo, paired with BBQ lunch and then settling in for the night at the historic Hotel Emma are at top of our Texas travel recommendations.