Kia pointedly says its mucho-looking Niro concept car presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show hints to a new B-segment lifestyle vehicle.
Powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine with hybrid electric drive, the Kia Niro presents in a robust way for urban dwellers seeking a city-safe vehicle with weekend escape possibilities.
Created by Kia Design Europe in Frankfurt, the Niro has SUV overtones but isn’t a ditch-digger. Instead it plays to the growing European customer who wants a bit more ‘pizzaz’ from their B-segment vehicle.
At 4185mm in overall length, 1850mm wide and 1558mm high, the Kia Niro has been dimensioned to cater for compact European city roads. The ‘tiger’ nose and low glasshouse combine to provide a purposeful on-road stance.
Doors are a ‘butterfly’ design which – like light aircraft – swing up high and open into the roof panel.
The luggage space scores a carbon-fibre deck and sturdy 20-inch alloy wheels compliment the aggressive look.
Inside are two front seats and an ‘occasional use’ two-passenger rear bench seat which folds flat to maximize cargo space. Drivers can personalize their seating position via an adjustable pedal box.
