It wasn’t too long ago that the Koreans were looking to their Japanese counterparts for inspiration in the design and build of their vehicles. But things have changed massively, and in a comparatively short timeframe.

Modern Korean cars appear to have been built on very different ideologies than their Japanese counterparts. Stylistically speaking, and on a build quality front, these vehicles seem to have been fabricated with an ethos that more closely aligns with Continential cars.

Which is probably why the all-new Kia Niro Hybrid could quite possibly be the best hybrid crossover on sale today. Especially at its price point.

Excellent Efficiency

It has one thing that sets it apart from most of its rivals – an adjustable level of brake regeneration. The paddle shifters are used to toggle the rate of recuperation in the car’s Eco mode. But unlike in an EV, you’d struggle to modulate the amount of regen with the throttle. On deceleration, only the first 25% of the pedal travel appears to be used to manipulate the electric motor’s output.

I’ve found myself right on the upper limit of coasting, with slight nudges on the throttle then activating the petrol engine. To drive the Niro Hybrid as efficiently as possible, I’d recommend you drive with no regeneration on at all, only adding max regen when you intend to come to a stop.

Gradually then taper off the amount of recuperation, until you are coasting again at speeds below 20 km/h. You can then use the friction brakes to come to a stop. Alternatively, you can leave it on Level 2 for a more familiar hybrid experience. Doing the latter will yield somewhere in the neighbourhood of 4.2l/100km, or about 23.8km/l, close to the official estimates Kia quotes.

High Quality Cabin

On the inside, you’d be hard pressed to find a shoddy fitting panel. Everything appears to be very well throughout and properly screwed together, out of quality materials that are far superior to the rest of its immediate rivals.

And the good news doesn’t stop there. It is loaded to the gills, with our test car even having ventilated seats. Space is good all round, and the cabin manages to feel airy despite not having a full moonroof.

Not that this is a car that would appeal to the hoons, but you’d find seats that offer just about enough support should you wish to engage in some spirited driving. Body roll is present when you really commit to carrying big speeds through the bends, though overall it manages its heft fairly well. Especially when driven by a normal person and not an overzealous automotive journalist. 

A Solid and Stylish Crossover Option

Kia has shown the world that modern vehicles can be stylish, efficient and practical, at a price point that isn’t hyper-inflated. The minimalist design language has been accentuated with a striking sideblade, bolstered by excellent all-round build quality.

A well-equipped car with a sensible pricetag – unless you’re seeking seven seats, there’s no better buy in its class!

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