[This article was first published on www.hardwarezone.com.sg]
Rising COE prices have made cars really expensive these days, but that doesn't automatically make them an irrational purchase. There are still economical options out there if you know where to look and the new Kia Niro Hybrid makes a strong case for being one of them.
The is a small crossover SUV hybrid and the key thing you want to know is that it has a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder engine that's paired with a 32kW electric motor. The total output is 128hp and 144nm of torque, which means it's a CAT A COE car in Singapore's parlance.
The Niro Hybrid features Kia's second-generation six-speed dual-clutch transmission. Interestingly, there's no reverse gear, which saves a couple of kilos. Instead, reverse drive is provided solely by the electric motor.
Claimed fuel consumption figure is 4L/100km or 25km/l, which is quite remarkable for a car of its size. And with a 45L capacity fuel tank, this means owners should get over a 1,000km on a full tank. Hopefully, we'll get the chance to test one soon and see how it performs in the real world.
The interior is contemporary and looks pretty elegant. Like most cars these days. the instrument cluster is digital, and you have a 10.25-inch screen for the car's infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are offered as standard.
According to Kia, the Niro Hybrid has a luggage capacity of 427L with the rear seats up. The rear seats fold 60:40, and if you fold them down completely, then luggage capacity increases to 1,434L.
And as for safety features, you have eight airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot warning, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist which warns drivers of a possible collision with other vehicles, pedestrians, and even cyclists.
The Kiro Niro Hybrid is available now in two trim levels: the more basic EX and the premium SX. Prices start at S$153,999 for the EX and S$168,999 for the SX. Prices include COE and VES rebates.
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[Source article: hardwarezone.com.sg/tech-news-kias-niro-hybrid-singapore-price-specs]
