[dropcap]A[/dropcap]ll-new Kia Niro will make its European debut at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show (86th Salon International de l’Automobile) on 1 March. A low-emission hybrid crossover, the Niro marks the development of Kia’s first dedicated eco-car platform.
The Kia Niro will offer the practicality and curbside appeal of a spacious crossover, together with the high fuel efficiency of an advanced hybrid powertrain. Engineered from the ground up as a dedicated hybrid vehicle, its attractive, modern design will help the car stand out among conservatively-styled hybrid rivals.
The Niro’s all-new platform has been engineered in isolation from existing Kia models, and is designed to accommodate a specific set of environmentally-conscious technologies and next-generation powertrains. While the Niro’s hybrid powertrain – made up of a 1.6-litre GDI (gasoline direct injection) engine, 
lithium-ion polymer battery pack, 32 kW electric motor and six-speed double-clutch transmission – is under development, Kia’s engineers are targeting CO2 emissions of 89 g/km*.
Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motors Europe, commented, “The Kia Niro will offer buyers a compelling blend of crossover practicality with the cool, modern styling for which Kia is famous, and an efficient new hybrid powertrain to keep running costs down. The Niro fills a gap in the market for a crossover with typically low hybrid emissions, and will appeal to a broad range of European buyers.”
Cole added: “Hybrid sales have more than doubled in Europe over the last five years, and are forecast to account for around 700,000 sales in Europe by 2020. The Niro will allow Kia to meet this growing demand for alternatively-fuelled vehicles, and help us meet our 2020 global target to improve average fleet fuel efficiency by 25% over 2014 levels.”
