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It wasn’t the ugly duckling of the lineup, but the previous version of the Kia Niro wasn’t winning any styling awards. Most called it boring, others went with uninteresting, and some just said, “Meh” about the looks of this SUV. Entering 2023, the Kia Niro SUV delivers a brand new generation and styling that makes you turn and look twice at this attractive new SUV.

Will everyone like the new looks of the Kia Niro?

Check out the impressive styling of the new 2023 Kia Niro hybrid SUV.
2023 Kia Niro | Kia

Probably not. In fact, some might look at the 2023 version and think this SUV is too distinctive and polarizing. Even so, they will need to take a second look to see the changes that make this a small SUV that turns heads. According to Market Watch, the Niro surprised attendees at the New York Auto Show with this small but useful subcompact crossover SUV.

What’s new for this SUV?

Other than being a brand-new model that ushers in a new generation with sharp styling, what else is new about the Kia Niro. Kelley Blue Book tells us this SUV also delivers:

  • More interior space
  • Better fuel economy
  • Upgraded tech items

The pros and cons offered for this new Kia are:

Pros

  • Good fuel economy
  • Smart styling
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Upscale cabin

Cons

  • No available AWD

What versions make up the lineup of the Niro SUV?

2023 Kia Niro Hybrid. What do you think of the style?
2023 Kia Niro Hybrid | Kia

There are three different versions of the new Kia Niro SUV. These are a traditional hybrid model, plug-in hybrid version, and EV model. No matter which model you select, you will have a vehicle that delivers better fuel mileage than the gasoline counterparts in the market.

How does this SUV deliver its new style?

The new Kia Niro is more than just a little bit interesting, it’s compelling. This is how MotorTrend describes the new subcompact SUV. They also tell us this vehicle has:

  • Angular headlights
  • Broad hood
  • Substantial sculpting around the wheels and lower body
  • Contrast-color panel behind the rear doors
  • V-shaped LED headlights
  • Vertical taillights

These styling elements come together to give us a small SUV that might have the sharp looks you admire and want to enjoy on the road.

How is the interior of the Kia Niro presented?

The upscale looks of the 2023 Kia Niro Interior
2023 Kia Niro Interior | Kia

Kia created an interior space in the new Niro that looks like it belongs in an upscale luxury model. You’ll admire the style offered, the dual 10.25-inch screens for the instruments and infotainments, and ambient lighting. You can fill the rear area with up to 22.8 cubic feet of gear you need during your time on the road.

What features will you find for this SUV?

Other than the trio of fuel-sipping powertrains, you’ll also see a list of upscale items that give this SUV more tech and quality during your drive. Some of these items are:

  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Rear cross-traffic alerts
  • Safe exit warning
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Dual 10.25-inch touchscreens
  • Heated/ventilated front seats
  • Driver’s seat memory settings
  • Ambient lighting
  • 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
  • Wireless phone charging
  • Head-up display
  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Digital Key 2.0 feature

When can you order a 2023 Kia Niro?

White 2023 Kia Niro parked for everyone to see
White 2023 Kia Niro | Kia

This new subcompact SUV arrives in the fall of 2022 as part of the 2023 model year. This new Niro ushers in a brand-new generation for an SUV that hasn’t been in the market for very long.

Is the 2023 Kia Niro an affordable hybrid SUV?

Yes, this little Kia SUV is affordable. The expected starting price is $25,000, with a top price reaching $33,000. This starting price places the Niro right between the Hyundai Ioniq at $24,000 and the Toyota Prius at $26,000.

Should you buy this new hybrid SUV?

If you’re looking for a great way to save on gas and enjoy the usefulness of a small SUV, the new 2023 Kia Niro is an excellent option. This SUV gives you 53 mpg combined in the hybrid version, with the PHEV and EV models offering more efficiency. This vehicle comes at a small price and could be the right size for you. On the other hand, if you want AWD or a larger vehicle, you’ll want to look elsewhere for your new ride.

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2020 Kia Niro EV: Good Housekeeping Has Nothing Bad to Say About This Electric Crossover