Kia Niro PHEV review

August 1, 2025 Matt Allan

Kia is playing a brilliant EV game right now, so is there still room in its range for a petrol-powered hybrid like the Niro PHEV?

Kia helped spearhead the mainstream shift towards electrification back in 2018 when it released the first-gen E-Niro family crossover to sit alongside full- and plug-in hybrid variants.

Since then the Niro has been thoroughly updated but Kia has also launched a host of impressive purpose-built EVs, including last year’s EV3 – a Niro-sized electric crossover.

That bespoke BEV with its longer range and newer tech effectively renders the Niro EV redundant, but the Niro presses on with petrol-powered options, so is there still space for a Niro plug-in hybrid in Kia’s evolving model range?

Kia Niro PHEV design, interior and technology

The Niro’s design does a good job of setting it somewhere between a traditional hatchback and “proper” SUV, representing what a crossover should be. It’s boxy but with some softer edges and a more angular back end that makes it more purposeful looking than the XCeed but less imposing than the Sportage. If you want a bit more character, top-spec cars come with the option of a contrast-coloured C-pillar, but I’m not sure that helps the looks.

Inside, the Niro’s age is starting to show, with a cabin that isn’t as interesting or spacious feeling as Kia’s new electric offerings. The solid centre console and deep dashboard leave you feeling more hemmed than you do in the EV3. As a result it feels less roomy, even if there’s enough space on board for four average-sized adults.

It’s also a bit gloomy. A mix of glossy and not so glossy black plastics, dark headliner and dark upholstery don’t lift the spirits. But the build quality is brilliant. All the main touchpoints – from door tops and handles to the switchgear around the cabin – are rock solid and feel like they’ll cope with a lifetime of family service.

The Niro PHEV interior is comfortable, robust but a bit gloomy

Like the rest of the interior the Niro PHEV’s technology isn’t as up to date as the EV. The 10.25-inch infotainment screen is a little basic looking and runs an older operating system. So it doesn’t get the latest online services or tech such as wireless smartphone mirroring, but it’s quick, clear and easy enough to use and does still support Android and Apple connectivity as well as having its own in-built navigation.

Battery, motor and performance

With the EV3 offering more than 300 miles in a similarly sized car with newer tech and better looks, you might question why we’re even looking at the Niro PHEV. But no matter how keen we are on pure EVs there are some drivers who aren’t ready for them – either because their circumstances make charging difficult, or they need to build up belief in the plug-in approach.

So for them, the Niro is a worthwhile prospect. Its 1.6-litre petrol engine is backed up by a 83kW electric motor. In combination, they produce a total of 168bhp and deliver a 0-62mph time of 9.8 seconds. The electric motor is powered by an 11.1kWh battery which official tests say will deliver 40 miles of all-electric range between charges. In the real world, that’s probably more like 30 miles – still enough for most daily commuting tasks.

As with any PHEV, you can use different modes to bank your electric energy for later, use the petrol engine to help replenish the battery, or let the system automatically decide the best approach. You can also adjust the braking regeneration via steering column paddles, just like the EV version. With charge in the battery, the Niro is pretty good at managing which drive mode to be in and returns stunning economy. Even with a depleted battery, I saw close to 60mpg on mixed runs and with the battery full and a little bit of care, that soars far higher.

The Niro PHEV impresses with its fuel economy

Left in hybrid mode, the Niro will pull away and pootle around town capably and quietly just on electric power. Accelerate up to the national speed limit and the petrol engine kicks in with a pronounced rumble. It’s a little on the coarse side but it does give the Niro reasonable grunt when it’s needed.

You wouldn’t seek out much more power or pace in the Niro PHEV, anyway. Like so many of its competitors, it’s set up as it should be – to offer sensible family motoring. High-speed handling takes a back seat to a pleasantly composed and controlled ride that copes with rough A-roads and pitted urban surfaces commendably.

Kia Niro PHEV price and specification

The Niro PHEV range kicks off with the entry-level ‘2’ spec at £35,435, rising to £40,435 for the ‘4’. Our test car was the mid-spec ‘3’ which brings most of the gadgets drivers need for £37,685.

That spec includes cosmetic enhancements over the basic car, LED headlights, 18-inch alloys, rear privacy glass, heated seats and steering wheel, wireless phone charging and partial faux-leather upholstery. All versions get the 10.25-inch Android and Apple compatible screen, adaptive cruise control two-zone air conditioning and parking sensors and camera.

Unless you really want a head-up display, heated rear seats or remote parking, the ‘4’ doesn’t hold much attraction.

Verdict

The Niro has been around for a while now and it’s starting to show its age in places, especially compared with Kia’s newer models.

Nonetheless, for drivers not ready for a pure BEV and who don’t care about the very latest in connectivity, there’s still a lot to like. It’s reasonably spacious with an amazingly robust interior and decent equipment levels. The petrol engine is a little rough but in tandem with the electric motor, provides plenty of power and truly impressive economy.

It looks like there’s life in the old dog, yet.