Kia Niro Hybrid: A Smart Choice for Eco-Friendly Driving?

We’re living on the margins of wrecking our environment if we continue to rely entirely on fossil fuels to power our vehicles but thanks to automakers like Kia, we can actually stop the degradation without losing the phenomenal power of gasoline and diesel powered-engines. The Kia Niro Hybrid is designed to solve the aforementioned issue exactly; it is a crossover utility vehicle that gives you ample space in your urban drives while also assisting you to save on fuel- ensuring you keep the surroundings clean while also alleviating the stress that comes with the ever-fluctuating gas prices. 

In today’s Kia Niro Hybrid review, we’ll explore the reasons why this model is a superb eco-friendly option and also highlight what makes it a worthy competitor to other renowned subcompact SUVs like the Toyota Cross, Buick Envista, Volkswagen Taos and the Mazda CX-30. Also noteworthy is that most of these SUVs come in various trims and options, and for a new buyer, it requires massive diligence to identify the ideal vehicle for your needs. For context, when we factor in the plug-in hybrid trims, there are a whooping seven different models starting from the base LX trim to the top Niro SX Touring PHEV, meaning choosing an ideal vehicle would just be so hectic. We don’t want you to be stuck with a Kia Niro Hybrid model that doesn’t serve your needs and this is primarily why we’ve created this article. 

Today, we’ll exclusively cover all the key features of each model, so we invite you to stay with us to the end. We’ll also reveal what should be the primary considerations when choosing hybrid EVs such as the 2025 Kia Niro and recommend the best overall trims. Let’s get right into the fray. 

Kia Niro lineup

The Kia Niro models are massively extensive, but grading them into their three primary categories makes telling one from the other pretty easy. First, there’s the standard hybrid powertrain (which is the primary type we’re covering in this article). Like other renowned hybrids such as the Alfa Romeo Tonale Hybrid, the Lexus NX, and the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, the Kia Hybrids basically feature a battery that recharges while braking. This battery shares the powertrain burden with a gas-powered engine, a feature that significantly helps in saving on gas and thus minimizing the emissions. 

Next, Kia also offers Niro plugin hybrid (PHEV) models, which mainly come in two trims: the EX and SX Touring. Unlike the previous Niro Hybrid, the PHEVs don’t have a recharging mechanism but instead require you to charge them at charging stations. Sounds tedious, right? Well, taxing as it might seem, this option ensures they have a significantly more powerful engine and can travel at faster speeds than conventional hybrids. 

Finally, there is the Kia Niro EV, a subcompact EV which is fully electric and, therefore the most eco-friendly model of all the rest in the Niro lineup. Although the Niro EV doesn’t perform better than other renowned Kia EVs (because it's sort of a base model in the EV line), it still gives pretty enough range at around 253 miles and actually competes effectively with other cars in its class, such as the Mini Countryman Electric, Volvo EX30 and the Hyundai Kona Electric. Also noteworthy is that there are only two trim options for the Kia Niro EV, namely, the Wind and Wave, both running on a 201-hp electric motor that powers the front wheels. They also have the same battery pack with a 64.8-kWh capacity, and there’s relatively minimal difference between the two trims in terms of power output and functionality. 

2025 Kia Niro Hybrid Review

Now that you have a glimpse of the Niro lineup, let’s delve deeper into the hybrid model, its trim levels, available options and the host of features you expect with the various trims. The Niro is available in five main trims that include the base LX, EX, EX Touring, SX, and SX Touring but in between the SX and the SX Touring is the EX PHEV (A Plugin Hybrid vehicle) and above the premier SX Touring Niro Hybrid is an even better performer in the SX Touring PHEV. 

Definitely, as with all the vehicle trims, it's the base model that comes with the least features while the rest come in hierarchical upgrades, and this is also the case with the 2025 Kia Niro Hybrid. Noteworthy is that all the Niro hybrids feature an electric motor (which gives the electric power) and a 1.6-litre four-cylinder, the two combined, providing a powertrain output of 139hp and 195lb.-feet of torque. Also, all the trims come standard with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission system and are all available in FWD drives. So basically, the Niro Hybrid trims don’t offer massive power output compared to their Plugin Hybrid counterparts, whose powertrain output can rise to 180hp. 

So what are the standard features of each of the hybrid respective trims? Let’s explore them below in detail. 

Kia Niro LX Hybrid

One of the primary concerns of investing in this model is whether it is efficient. Well, for all its shortcomings, its 53 mpg city, 54 mpg highway, and 53 MPG Combined EPA Estimated Fuel economy is pretty commendable. The other superior trims post lower fuel economy figures that average around 53 mpg city and 45 mpg highway. The LX Hybrid comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, and although they are not wide enough, such as those in the superior models like the EX Touring, this is not really a big deal considering that the base trim is not built for speed. You should therefore have zero concerns about its stability when cruising on the road as, in essence, this is mainly a car that suits around-the-city drives rather than long-distance highway trips that encourage speeding. 

It has also stayed true to Kia’s commitment to creating not just environment-friendly vehicles but also those that are safe to occupants, and this is enabled by a variety of safety features that include: 

• Lane Keeping and Following Assist Technology
• An avoidance assist which essentially prevents rear cross-traffic collision
• Blind-spot detection technology. 

This model is also pretty spacious despite being categorized as a compact SUV. It has a 5-passenger capacity, which means that it's an ideal budget family car, retailing at around $26,990. This includes the front two seats plus a bench seat on the second row that can accommodate up to three passengers comfortably seated, and its leg area is also quite roomy so that passengers don’t feel hunched up while in the car. 

Comfort is also at its peak with this vehicle, especially for front-row passengers who can enjoy features like the dual-zone automatic climate control, which allows them to set their preferred temperatures. There’s also a rear privacy glass ensuring that back-seat passengers are concealed from outsiders. This car comes with a suite of entertainment features, chief among them being the 8-inch touchscreen display allowing access to music apps like Android Auto and AppleCarPlay. 

Also, the range of exterior color options is pretty wide, and you can choose from hues such as Interstellar gray, Steel gray, Aurora Black Pearl, Snow White Pearl, and Runway Red. However, Kia needs to do better for the interior, as the only available color option is a charcoal woven cloth seat trim. 

Kia Niro EX Hybrid

If the erstwhile LX trim doesn’t sound interesting, it’d be worthwhile to consider the next model in the Niro hybrid lineup, which is essentially an upgrade on the LX. Notably, all the features we have covered in the LX trim are standard on the EX hybrid, but for $29,790, you’re sure to get a few additions to justify the price. First, like all the superior models, the EX has two additional exterior color options over those you’ll find in the LX: Mineral Blue and Cityscape Green. Still, on the exterior, you will get roof rails, and there are some additional improvements in the interior where Kia has moved away from the bland Charcoal woven cloth seat trim for the interior to include two new options: Charcoal SynTex & cloth seat trim and Gray SynTex & cloth seat trims. 

Interior comfort is beefed up by the heated front row seats, and this is an even more secure car than the LX model thanks to the inclusion of additional safety features such as Enhanced Auto Emergency Braking with a Junction Turning capacity and a Navigation-based smart cruise control which is handy when you’re driving around bends. Parking is also a breeze thanks to its rear parking sensors that detect obstacles at the back, and you don’t have to manually activate wipers when it starts to rain as this model, together with the succeeding trims in the Niro series, comes with Auto Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers. 

With the EX, you also get a bigger 10.25 touchscreen display, which improves the view of features such as navigation and Kia wireless connection, such as the Kia Connect and the SiriusXM Satellite Radio. It also comes with a wireless phone charger with fast charging properties. The driver's comfort is enhanced thanks to its power driver seat inclusion, which also features a power lumbar adjustment. Finally, you can start the Niro EX hybrid without necessarily being in the vehicle via its smart key ignition with a push button and a remote start system. 

Kia Niro EX Touring Hybrid

As its name suggests, it's an upgrade on the erstwhile covered EX model, although there’s not much difference from its counterpart. But with this car, you get 18-inch alloy wheels, a signature gloss black exterior accent trim, and alloy sports pedals. Also while inside, you’ll notice its flashy LED lighting, and it also sports power-folding side view mirrors and LED fog lights to complete the superior subcompact SUV appeal. 

Other than the above-highlighted features, all the rest are the same as you’d find in the EX model. Notable is that to own the EX Touring trim, you’ll have to part with around $32,090, which is quite a decent sum for such an incredible model. 

Kia Niro SX and SX Touring

This is where the deluxe features come in plenty because this car is just below the top SX Touring trim. To differentiate it from the previous models, Kia has introduced the $32,990 priced SX with its select two interior color options: Perforated Charcoal SynTex Seat Trim and Perforated Gray and Charcoal SynTex Seat Trim. Notably, these are still the interior color options that are available for the premier SX Touring trim. 

It's also the first of the Niro to feature a Sunroof with a Power Sunshade, and it is designed to perfectly suit you while shopping thanks to its Smart Power Liftgate system. Other deluxe features available in the SX but lacking in the previous models include: 

• Front and Rear Parking sensors for accurate estimation of obstacles while parking. 
• The front-row seats are not just heated by also well-ventilated for ultimate comfort. 
• A Harman Kardon Premium Audio system for the ultimate sound. 

All the above features are standard in the premier SX Touring trim, which retails from $35,390, although the Touring is more deluxe and exquisite in its functionality and features. Some of the additional properties unavailable in the other models include LED Projector Headlights and more exterior color options, including Mineral Blue with a Black Aeroblade and CityScape Green with a Black Aeroblade. 

Pros and Cons of the Kia Niro Hybrid

Now, let's examine the real deal-breakers when deciding whether to invest in the Kia Niro Hybrid or pursue other alternatives. 

Kia Niro Hybrid Upsides

1. First, it's a real fuel saver, especially if you’re shifting from a gas-powered car, as this vehicle has a battery (which doesn’t cost a dime to charge) to handle the power supply. 

2. It also offers great comfort when driving, facilitated by its ample sitting space, efficient suspension systems, and a host of entertainment features to keep you entertained. 

3. You also get real value for your money with this car as primarily, it doesn’t cost you an arm and leg and it still possesses some of the deluxe features you’d find in other highly priced vehicles. 

4. It also comes with a warranty from the manufacturer and therefore having the battery wear out shortly after investing in the vehicle should be the least of your worries. 

5. Again, it has a sleek and contemporary design, which makes it aesthetically attractive. 

Kia Niro Hybrid Downsides

1. Its relatively limited electric range is quite an issue, and the Niro Plugin Hybrid is even better than it in terms of range and overall performance. 

2. Don’t expect a phenomenal burst of speed from this car, as that’s not one of its fundamental properties. 

3. It also lacks a sporty car feel and this is primarily due to its engine type and its powertrain limitations. 

4. Although it's pretty understandable that when designing this vehicle, Kia intentionally used recycled materials in the inetreior to make it sustainable, the outcome is quite bland and an uninspiring interior outlook for a car of its price range. 

5. The overall design is not outstanding, and the range of features separating one trim from the other is not impressively unique enough to give customers quite a hard time selecting among the models. 

Verdict: Which is the Best Kia Niro Hybrid Option?

Given the above perks and downsides, we’d recommend the EX touring as its somewhat midway in regard to the number of features this car possesses and its not-so-exaggerated price. However, generally, although the Kia Niro Hybrid is generally truly environmentally friendly, its performance leaves much to be desired as customers with prior experience with full EV cars would find its performance too mediocre. The Plugin options actually do better and therefore with a full EV option, this isn’t a car many would consider giving a try. All in all, it's a brilliant innovative solution to lowering environmental emissions and enabling the shift from the gas-powered models.