Kia's Niro crossover is a very eco-friendly option, with hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric powertrains. For 2023, the Niro has dropped its vanilla styling for a more bold look, heavily based on 2019's Habaniro concept.


The new Niro carries Kia's Opposites United design philosophy, and blends nature-inspired materials with a futuristic look. Larger wheels and bolder body cladding make it clear that the Niro is an SUV, unlike the outgoing model. Robust A-pillars and a tall greenhouse emphasize its strong design. An eye-catching two-tone design inspired by the Habaniro features a wide rear pillar, which connects with the boomerang-like taillights. This unique element is also said to improve air flow. The Niro retains the tiger nose grille in front, and it is now positioned just below the hood. The thinner grille sits above the large 'heartbeat' DRLs, which also house the headlamps. A tall lower grille is aligned with the DRL signature with a chrome strip, and cuts into the bold front bumper where it integrates the fog lights.


The Niro's redesigned interior features a large touchscreen display, which is connected to the digital gauges within a single panel. Swoopy lines on the door panels and dashboard create an interesting and unusual look, though it's familiar for a Kia. The air vents and ambient lighting are hidden inside a gap on the dash, positioned below one of those lines. The center console below is covered with high-gloss black, and houses the electronic dial shifter.


The materials used for the cabin are mostly recyclable, such as the recycled wallpaper on the headliner, and seats made of Tencel from eucalyptus leaves. Speaking of the seats, their thin shape expands passenger room, and further emphasizes the interior's futuristic look. The back covers on the sleek headrests have integrated coat hangers, which is another example of the Niro's clever practicality.

The 2023 Kia Niro introduces an all-new drive mode, called 'Greenzone Drive Mode.' This new mode engages full EV power in the plug-in hybrid variant, and automatically turns on when entering 'green zones.' Standard green zones include residential areas, as well as in close proximity to schools and hospitals. Greenzone mode also knows when to activate based on data from navigation and driving history. The driver can also designate a new green zone on their own, and the vehicle will remember whenever it enters that specific location.


The new Kia Niro will come on sale sometime next year as a 2023 model year vehicle, and more details like pricing should be released closer to launch. It will continue to offer hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric versions when it arrives.
Do you like the Niro's bold design compared to the current model?
Images: Kia
I am not loving the Niro read lights!