Los Angeles

2020 Kia Niro Boasts Extra Safety, Sleeker Looks

by Guillaume Rivard
All photos
Photo: Kia

The Kia Niro made its debut three years ago as a compact hybrid crossover. It’s now time for a mid-cycle refresh and the company took advantage of the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show this week to announce the various changes.

“It’s difficult to improve on a winning formula, but we’re always striving to improve every product we sell and the enhanced 2020 Niro provides new owners the latest and greatest while retaining the value, utility and performance of the original Niro,” said Michael Cole, president of Kia’s American operations.

First of all, Kia is making the Niro safer by expanding the availability of Lane Following and Lane Keeping Assist along with High Beam Assist.

The exterior design features new projector-type headlights and fog lamps, a new diamond-pattern grille and dual chevron-shaped LED daytime running lights. In the rear, the faux skid plate is wider and more pronounced, while the LED combination taillights sport an edgier look.

Customers will also have a choice of new 16- and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Photo: Kia

Inside, the cockpit of the 2020 Niro is more streamlined, incorporating a restyled seven-inch instrument cluster with improved drive mode graphics. An eight-inch touchscreen comes standard, while a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and Harman/Kardon premium audio is available.

Optional paddle shifters add a new dimension to the driving experience while allowing active regenerative braking control. An electronic parking brake and mood lighting with six different colours are newly available, as well.

There are no changes to the powertrain, which consists of a 1.6-litre gasoline engine and an electric motor. Combined, they develop a total of 139 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. In town, fuel consumption can be as low as 4.5 L/100 km.

Photo: Kia

Pricing for the 2020 Kia Niro is not yet available and will be announced closer to the on-sale date early next year. By the way, the Niro PHEV (plug-in hybrid) will receive identical enhancements and hit the market at about the same time.

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