If you asked me to name the kind of car most likely to cure my insomnia, I’d probably plump for a crossover plug-in hybrid SUV. But then they’re not aimed at me and even I must recognise the fact that, once in a while, one comes along that does its job well enough at least to earn my admiration, even if it leaves me unmoved. This new Kia Niro is one such car.
Available as a conventional hybrid, a plug-in or a full EV, this second generation car sits on a brand new platform, comes laden with tech and provides an entirely pleasant if easily forgotten driving experience. What it does not do, or at least the plug-in I drove, and which makes it stand out from the crowd somewhat, is annoy.
I know this because I drove one from Wales to the far side of Brussels and back. In a day. And if a car was ever going to wind me up it would be on a marathon solo journey like that. But it didn’t. Now, you may think that ‘not actively irritating’ is hardly a ringing endorsement but let me assure you that, in this class, it’s the next best thing. This Niro gets so much right: it has acceptable performance, outstanding economy, comfortable seats, capable handling and excellent infotainment. And you don’t need the top spec 4 model tested here. A mid-range 3 is plenty. It will neither surprise nor particularly delight you, but if it’s good honest plug-in transport you’re after, in this perennially underachieving class, there’s none better than this. AF
Price £39,575
Engine 1.6 litres, four cylinders, petrol, turbocharged, hybrid drive
Power 180bhp
Torque 195lb ft
Weight 1594kg
Power to weight 113bhp per tonne
Transmission Six-speed dual clutch, front-wheel drive
0-60mph 9.8sec
Top speed 100mph
Economy 282.5mpg (WLTP)
CO2 22g/km
Verdict Doesn’t anger; thumbs up.
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