South Korean automotive giant Kia has pulled the covers off its all-new Niro crossover at the 2021 Seoul Mobility Show. With an aim to provide accessible, sustainable mobility, the new Niro embodies Kia’s commitment to building a sustainable future. The new Niro will appeal to the complex needs of sustainability-conscious consumers and join Kia’s eco-friendly lineup.
Kia will continue to display the new Niro at the Seoul Mobility Show from November 25th to December 5th. The automaker has also stated that the Niro will utilize HEV, PHEV, and EV powertrains starting from next year. The new Niro has been developed using Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, fulfilling the ‘Joy for Reason’ ethos.
2022 Kia Niro: Design & Driving Tech Details
Inspired by nature, the Niro sports environmentally focussed colours, materials, and finishes, which strike the perfect design balance. Kia has taken inspiration from its 2019 Habaniro concept for the exterior design of the Niro for a future-oriented outlook. At the front, Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Face’ has been transformed for the all-new Niro, which extends from the hood. With the face extending towards the rugged fender, the crossover sports striking ‘heartbeat’ LED DRLs for a contemporary look.
Along with the high-tech two-tone body, strong shoulders, and upright windows, the Niro’s rear wide pillar enhances the airflow. These elements improve the overall aerodynamics of the Niro, which additionally features unique vertically-designed tail lights for a striking look. With the perfect combination of aerodynamics and sustainable materials implemented on the Niro, Kia has introduced a ‘Greenzone Drive Mode’.
This allows the crossover to automatically change from PHEV to an EV driving mode to satisfy sustainably mobility demands. According to Kia, this will occur when the Niro drives through green zones such as residential areas, schools, or hospitals. The automaker also states that the Niro recognizes the driver’s favourite places, home, or office as a registered green zone. The crossover automatically switches electric-only power based on navigation cues and driving history data.
2022 Kia Niro: Interior Details
Cementing its commitment towards sustainability and indicating its future model development, Kia has utilized recycled materials for the Niro’s cabin. Kia has made the headlining from recycled wallpaper and the seats from Bio PU with Tencel from eucalyptus leaves. Additionally, Kia has used BTX-free paint on the door panels to reduce environmental impact and wastage. The Niro’s off-centre dash curves around its front passengers with opposing horizontal and diagonal lines to create a calm aesthetic.
With an easy-to-operate centre console, the Niro sports an electronic dial-type shift lever placed on the high-gloss black surface. Incorporated within the diagonal gaps of the dashboard on the new Niro are the infotainment screen and the air vents. Kia has also implemented ambient lighting along with a high-tech lightweight seat mechanism for enhanced roominess, comfort, and style. Other interior elements include slim headrests with an integrated coat hanger on the back cover.
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