Test Drive: 2017 Kia Niro Touring

Detailed test drive review of the Kia Niro hybrid crossover with full driving impressions of performance and handling, real world mpg, with ratings for features, quality, and safety.

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[skipmontesjr]

I just bought one for my wife.. She drives a lot... Great gas mileage and when I got in it I said wow this is so Audiesque.... Then I found out the lead Audi designer moved over to Hyundai and Kia....Super tight car....For the money it is terrific..

[banno]

One of the best reviews I've seen for the Niro. The amount of kit you get in this car as well as the decent economy and practicality makes it a strong contender for my next car. Currently getting 49mpg (UK) in a 1.6 Octavia DSG so this should be a good upgrade.

[marathonbaker]

One point I think you need to touch on is rear hatch opening. I know not everyone will have to worry about hitting their head when loading or unloading but I found the Niro had a higher opening compared to the CRV where I have to duck to put stuff in the back.

[tntmyth]

I saw a Kia Niro today in the same color parked outside a restaurant. It's actually a good looking car. I would drive it. Not something I can say about the recent Prius with the Fugly tail lights. I saw another youtube auto reviewer that said he got 52 mpg probably with a good portion of highway driving. That's pretty good for a car that has great room for the driver and passengers, is a hatch back and can carry stuff. The interior is nice and the dual clutch makes it look fairly fun to drive. Kia is on a roll. Sorento, Soul, Sportage, Niro. All are pretty competitive. Toyota and Honda better be looking over their shoulders. Kia might just eat their lunch in the next few years.

[Gabez]

I saw a dark blue color of this car at a shopping center, and I was pretty impressed by its looks. I didn't recognize it, and had to take a closer look. And I really like the looks of it. Good job Kia.

[rockcrawlerfin]

Kia kicking ass again. I have a 2012 optima and its been a great car with 150k on it already im planning on getting 300k before i buy another kia. I have only had to change the ac pump and a battery, still have the factory brake pads! The niro will probably be what i get. I have had other new cars including a $75k dodge ram that was a piece of junk and sold already and kia makes a great product.

[jackfishcampbell]

We have the 19 Niro hybrid touring in Canada, the touring here had for 19 anyways all the tech features and a spare tire.

[CupidinColorado]

Can't wait to hear your review on the plug-in model ahead.

[brezato]

Sam, I was also very impressed with this vehicle. Thid hybrid is definitely needed for those who want a fuel saver but like you say, not a science experiment. I agree with your 5 star rating for sure! Can't remember the last time I seen a car receive almost all 5's in every category. I think brakes was the only 4star you rated on this car, right? I think Kia shoukd make it so you can have a more aggressive regenative brake. But I will be buying one for my car collection.

[taeminator]

I always love your work. keep up the good work!

[ejf]

It actually looks terrific. I'd might buy one.

[emgee]

I have the UK version (GDi 3) which one down from the Touring US version, I don’t know why, but over here the door handles are this fake chrome plastic, whereas the US version get body coloured door handles which I think are better, but hey-ho it is what it is. I like it and other than some minor niggles I’m very pleased with it. I average around 52-54 MPG (UK gallons).

[CupidinColorado]

Sam, love your reviews! I wanted to ask if you would please show us how much fits in the trunk, etc? Some reviewers use small suitcases or packs of tissue from Costco. It really helps get a bird's eye feel for space I think. Thanks! J

[palebeachbum]

Does anybody know if the seating height position is higher than in the Hyundai Ioniq? I'm interested in both vehicles. I'd prefer a taller ride height than a regular car for better visibility, but being 5'7", I find too many of the compact CUVs to be a bit too high to get in and out of without having to hop up and slide down to get out. I hate that. I prefer the better MPG of the Ioniq, but prefer the taller cargo area of the Niro. If the Niro actually has a higher seating position, I'd likely dismiss the Ioniq from my short list.

[LogcTech]

Does it come in AWD? I want to recommend this to my mom.

[robertlandry]

Always check out Test Drives/160 HP and AWD I'd buy it🐌

[MrCarpediem]

Chuck Liddel? That you? I ain't not gonna say nuthin' gainst what u say 'bout this car; is as you say :)

[MrBigglessworth]

Way to not use your turn signal on that first turn.

[brandongoblue]

Don't need spare tire, kia dealer gives you the roadside assistance

[Steven]

I didn't like the test drive because I didn't have passing power on Route 1. Perhaps your experience was better because you had a higher trim then I test drove. At those prices I think I'll wait to take settlement on my TDI and wait for the CX5 diesel