2019 Kia Niro

2019 Kia Niro Highlights

The new fully electric Niro EV joins the 2019 Kia Niro hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. Rather than sticking a half-hearted electric powertrain in the existing and already fuel-miserly Niro, Kia tested its engineering know-how to make the EV version an excellent all-electric vehicle in its own right.

Key Details

• Compact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row seating for up to five passengers
• Introduction of the all-electric Niro EV with up to 239 miles of range
• Hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants continue with minor updates
• Crossover-like styling with hatchback practicality
• Available in hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and all-electric (EV) powertrains

Benefits

• Multiple powertrain options to suit different eco-conscious drivers
• Impressive fuel economy across all variants
• Spacious interior with ample cargo space
• User-friendly technology features

Learn More: The Kia Niro Years To Avoid

2019 Kia Niro Overview

Performance

The 2019 Kia Niro offers three distinct powertrain options:

Hybrid:

• 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor
• Combined output of 139 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque
• Six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):

• 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a more powerful electric motor
• Combined output of 139 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque
• Six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
• All-electric range of up to 26 miles

All-Electric (EV):

• Single electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque
• 64 kWh lithium-ion battery pack
• Single-speed reduction gear transmission
• EPA-estimated range of up to 239 miles

The hybrid and PHEV models sip gas with the best of their competitors, and that goal is evident in the mundane power delivery. Again, efficiency is the goal, not performance. However, the new 2019 Kia Niro EV offers impressive capability and range, catering to drivers ready to go fully electric. It’s also the hot rod of the bunch, efficiently running mid-six-second 0-60 times.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Niro Hybrid a four out of five overall safety score. In the frontal barrier test, the passenger dummy received a chest acceleration injury value indicating a high likelihood of a chest injury. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2019 Niro Hybrid a Top Safety Pick+, its highest designation, when equipped with optional front crash prevention and specific headlights. Neither NHTSA nor IIHS tested the other Niro variants.

Standard safety features on all 2019 Kia Niro trims include:

• Dual front advanced airbags
• Dual front seat-mounted side airbags
• Full-length side curtain airbags
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Vehicle stability management (VSM)
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Traction control system (TCS)
• Hill-start assist control (HAC)
• Rearview camera

Advanced driver assistance features, available on higher trims or as part of optional packages, include:

• Forward collision warning
• Forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection
• Lane keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane change assist
• Parking distance warning

Driving

The 2019 Kia Niro plug-in hybrid and standard hybrid models are paragons of efficiency and practicality with their electrically assisted gas engines and five-door body styles. While the hybrid and PHEV drivetrains won’t light up a dragstrip, the Niro is a small, nimble vehicle that feels as maneuverable as it looks.

Interestingly, Kia opted to use a traditional six-speed automatic for these models rather than a CVT, which makes the Niro feel more like a conventional gas-powered car under acceleration. The electric/gas transition is smooth and generally invisible.

Buyers who want a more exciting Niro will gravitate to the Niro EV's instant torque. Kia wisely placed its batteries low in the vehicle to give it a low center of gravity for stable handling.

Ride comfort is generally good across the Niro lineup, with the suspension tuned to absorb most road imperfections. However, models with larger wheels may transmit more road vibrations into the cabin.

Interior

The 2019 Kia Niro's interior is practical and spacious, with a cabin contrasting its compact exterior dimensions. The crossover-like design translates to good headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.

Key interior features include:

• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Available ten-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support
• Available heated and ventilated front seats
• Dual-zone automatic climate control (standard on most trims)
• Available heated steering wheel

The Niro's cargo space is impressive for its class:

• Hybrid: 19.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 54.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded
• PHEV: 19.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 54.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded
• EV: 18.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 53 cubic feet with the rear seats folded

Material quality is generally good, with a few areas of economy-level black plastic. Higher trims feature more premium touches like leather upholstery and glossy trim pieces.

Technology

The 2019 Kia Niro comes well-equipped with modern technology features, including:

• UVO infotainment system with seven-inch touchscreen (standard on LX)
• Available eight-inch touchscreen with navigation
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available wireless phone charger
• Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
• Available seven-inch LCD instrument cluster display

The Niro EV adds unique tech features:

• EV-specific navigation system with charging station locations
• Available Heat Pump HVAC system for efficient cabin heating

The 2019 Kia Niro LX is a step up from the base FE and is worth the upgrade, thanks to the added standard equipment. For example, LX trims and higher get the UVO3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Even the FE’s UVO system has responsive touch inputs and logical menu structures. The larger 8-inch screen, available on higher trims, provides crisp graphics and enhanced functionality.

For the PHEV and EV models, Kia offers a smartphone app for monitoring charging status, scheduling charging times, and controlling climate settings remotely.

Fuel Economy

The 2019 Kia Niro offers impressive fuel economy across its lineup. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

Hybrid:

• FE trim (mpg): 52 city / 49 highway / 50 combined
• LX, EX trims (mpg): 51 city / 46 highway / 49 combined
• Touring trim (mpg): 46 city / 40 highway / 43 combined

Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):

• Gas + electric (MPGe): 105 combined
• Gas-only fuel economy (mpg): 46 combined
• All-electric range: 26 miles

All-Electric (EV):

• MPGe: 123 city / 102 highway / 112 combined
• EPA-estimated range: 239 miles

2019 Kia Niro Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book give the 2019 Kia Niro an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5. Owners praise the Niro for its value, quality, reliability, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Excellent fuel efficiency
• Surprisingly, roomy interior and cargo capacity
• Crossover-like styling with hatchback practicality
• High IIHS safety scores
• Smooth and quiet ride, particularly in EV mode

Problems

• All-wheel drive isn’t available on any variant
• Acceleration is modest in hybrid and PHEV models
• Some advanced safety features are limited to higher trims
• Ride quality can suffer with larger wheel options

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CoPilot's Take

The 2019 Kia Niro is practical and efficient but not boring. Even in the admittedly slow hybrid and PHEV models, handling is crisp and eager, and the interiors offer a surprising amount of space. The Niro EV, in particular, stands out as an excellent gateway into the world of electric cars by not feeling too alien or futuristic.

Niros offers efficiency and user-friendly technology. All variants provide impressive fuel economy or electric range. The all-electric Niro EV for 2019 offers a competitive range and performance, especially for buyers who want something other than a Tesla.

Its technologies are competitive for the class, with even the base model including a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration. Higher trims offer advanced features like wireless phone charging and a premium audio system, adding a touch of luxury to this efficient vehicle.

As for downsides, while the Niro's performance is adequate for most driving situations, the hybrid and PHEV variants are underwhelming in acceleration. The lack of an all-wheel-drive option might also be a drawback for buyers in regions with harsh winters.

2019 Kia Niro FAQs

Is the Kia Niro 2019 a good car?

Yes, the 2019 Kia Niro is generally considered a good car. It offers excellent fuel economy across all its variants (hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric), a spacious and practical interior, and a good balance of features and value. In addition to its competitive price, the 2019 Kia Niro received positive reviews for its efficiency, comfort, and user-friendly technology. Its IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating also speaks to its safety credentials.

Why is the 2019 Kia Niro so popular?

The 2019 Kia Niro's popularity can be attributed to several factors:

• Fuel Efficiency
• Practicality
• Versatility
• Value
• Styling
• Technology

How many miles does a 2019 Kia Niro last?

A 2019 Kia Niro can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance.

How long do Kia Niros hybrid batteries last?

The Kia Niro's hybrid and plug-in hybrid batteries are designed to last the vehicle's life, which could be 10-15 years or more.

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