2025 KIA NIRO HEV

NIRO’S GOT YOU COVERED WHEN IT COMES TO ALL ASPECTS OF ELECTRICAL POWER

Debuting as a 2017 model, the Kia Niro compact crossover SUV and has had only minor changes since the 2023 model moved it into its second generation with a complete redesign inside and out and an updated infotainment system.

The 2025 Kia Niro offers you a choice of three drivetrains — standard hybrid (HEV), plug-in (PHEV) and fully electric (EV) in five different trim levels. This review is based on the standard gas-electric hybrid in THE top-of-the-line SX Touring trim.

The entry level trim is designated LX followed up the pricing ladder to EX, EX Touring, and SX.

The HEV drivetrain sports a 1.6-liter 4 cylinder engine that is mated to a 6-speed dual clutch automatic transmission. Combined with the electric motor it puts out a meager 139 horsepower but a healthier 195 pound-feet of torque to get you moving.

The government says the 2025 Kia Niro HEV will deliver combined fuel mileage of 49 miles-per-gallon, but several other sources report the Niro coming up short of that lofty figure.

As the top-of-the-line trim, the 2025 Kia Niro SX Touring comes with a nice package of standard convenience features that include wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but unfortunately some are behind interfaces that hide control buttons. One set operates the radio, another climate control functions.

The 10.25-inch touchscreen for infotainment features includes navigation, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system is included in the SX Touring trim. It also gets vegan leather seats, which means no cows lost their lives to coddle your tush.

Safety features on all trims of the Kia Nro HEV include forward collision avoidance assist, rear cross traffic collision avoidance, blind-spot warning, lane-keep assist with lane-departure warning, parking distance warning, and adaptable cruise control, 

Pricing for the 2025 Kia Niro HEV starts at $28,985 for the base LX. The 2025 Kia Niro SX Touring tops the chart at $36,785 including the destination and delivery charge.

The only extras on my test 2025 Kia Niro HEV were $395 for floor mats and a cargo cover. That kep it under the $40,000 mark, making the Kia Niro a competitive bargain among hybrid SUVs.

All-electric versions of the 2025 Kia Niro that at $40,995 for the base model dubbed Wind and $45,995 for the Wave trim. The 2025 Nia Niro PHEV start at $35,885 for the base EX and $42,185 for the top-of-the-line SX Touring.

What I liked about the Kia Niro HEV SX Touring: The choice of powertrains lets you tiptoe into the world of electrified driving. Its size lets you squeeze into crowded (and often tightly marked) mall parking lots but still offers good room for passengers. The 6-speed dual clutch automatic transmission is a big plus over the continuously variable transmission (CVT) found in most hybrid and fully electric vehicles. If pushed, it can scoot away from an intersection rather quickly. Auto hold is easily activated to prevent creeping at intersections.

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What I didn’t like about the Kia Niro HEV SX Touring: Radio and climate functions work off convenient knobs but you must first find the correct interface by punching a very small button on the bottom menu of the console center stack, which can be a distraction for the driver. Though it claims SUV status, all-wheel drive is not available.

Would I buy the Kia Niro HEV SX Touring? It’s a good choice for someone who wants a bigger rear storage area than a compact sedan offers. I like the standard hybrid (HEV) setup, but the Niro lets you dive a little deeper into the electrification pool with plug-in and all-electric options.