2023 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid

For the 2023 model year, the Niro PHEV comes in just two well-equipped trim levels. The entry-level model is the EX. It has 16-inch alloy wheels, halogen headlights, power-adjustable and heated side exterior mirrors, rear privacy glass, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. A step up to the SX Touring adds 18-inch wheels and comes with power-folding side mirrors. It also has a power tailgate, chrome-coated bumpers, and a power sunroof.

The Niro Plug-In Hybrid has all the fuel efficiency you get with the hybrid powertrain, but it has extra horsepower and some electric-only range. Power comes from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder gas engine and an electric motor that combine to generate 180 horsepower. It works with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This Niro will automatically shift from all-electric power to hybrid electric when the battery runs low.

With a fully charged battery, the Niro PHEV will get up to 33 miles of all-electric range, and it has a total range of 510 miles. This powertrain setup is one of the best setups for the Niro, with quick acceleration and better maximum range when driving with a combination of gas and electric power. The ride in this Niro is smooth and comfortable, and its small size makes it easy to maneuver in small spaces and slip into those cramped parking spots.

Inside, there's room for five people, and the Niro has more space in the cabin than most other compact SUVs. The EX comes with vegan leather upholstery and heated front seats. The driver gets a power-adjustable seat, and the rear seats have a 60/40 split. Stepping up to the SX Touring gets you ventilated front seats covered in perforated vegan leather, and it has a heated steering wheel and driver's seat memory settings. Technology in the Niro Plug-In Hybrid includes a 10.25-inch color touchscreen, navigation, Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad also comes standard. The SX Touring adds an upgraded stereo system.

Both 2023 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid models come with a full suite of safety systems as part of Kia Drive Wise. It includes forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic braking, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning. It also comes with navigation-based adaptive cruise control with a curve control feature, rear parking sensors, a traffic sign reader, automatic high-beam headlights, and lane-following assist. Kia's Highway Driving Assist also comes with the Niro. This system keeps the vehicle centered in its lane when using adaptive cruise control, and it has a driver attention warning system to make sure the driver stays alert.