A few months after its official presentation, KIA opened the order books for the new e-Niro in Spain. The revamped compact SUV, which now sits on the K3 platform already seen in the latest Hyundai Elantra, is slightly longer (6.5 centimeters) than its predecessor and debuts a completely revamped exterior and interior design. However, mechanically there are not too many changes.
The second-generation KIA e-Niro is equipped with a 204 hp (150 kW) and 255 Nm engine coupled to the front axle, thanks to which it can complete the 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. Its battery pack will have a capacity of 64.8 kWh, enough to approve a maximum of 463 km WLTP (its official consumption is 15.9 kWh/100 km), a minimal improvement compared to the 455 km WLTP achieved by its predecessor which tells us that, despite the use of a new platform, the powertrain is likely to be very similar.
As for the load, for the moment it has only been revealed that it will take 43 minutes to go from 10 to 80% connected to a DC station of sufficient power. One of the most interesting novelties will be its ability to supply electrical energy (up to 3 kW) to external equipment, as is already the case with the KIA EV6.
Aesthetically, the e-Niro borrows from the 2019 HabaNiro Concept prototype: the “Tiger Nose” grille has become slimmer, while the tick-shaped headlamps are located in a relatively low position. The C-pillar painted in contrast to the rest of the bodywork gives it a more casual touch, while the vertical taillights give the rear end a completely different look from its predecessor.
The KIA e-Niro will be available in 3 finishes
The interior also changes in depth, betting on a more modern design and the use of recycled materials. The dashboard is dominated by a huge display that includes the digital instrumentation and the touch screen of the infotainment system. The trunk for its part is cubic 475 liters; in addition, under the hood, there is a frunk (front trunk) of 20 liters.
The e-Niro will be available in Spain with three finishes: Concept (40,550 euros), Drive (44,250 euros), and Emotion (47,250 euros), to which we would have to add the optional Luxury Pack. Therefore, it is located in a range similar to that of models such as the Renault Megane E-TECH Electric in its EV60 version (218 hp, 60 kWh, 450 km WLTP).
