Kia Niro 2024 review
Photo: Alexander-93 (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Kia Niro has quietly become one of Britain's favourite family crossovers, and the 2024 model shows exactly why. Now in its second generation, the Niro pairs distinctive, angular styling with a clever self-charging hybrid powertrain that keeps fuel bills and company-car tax remarkably low. For UK drivers who want SUV practicality without SUV running costs, it hits a sweet spot that few rivals can match.
Under the bonnet, the 1.6-litre GDi hybrid produces 141PS and drives through a smooth six-speed dual-clutch automatic. Around town the Niro spends much of its time gliding silently on electric power, and on longer runs it settles into a relaxed, quiet cruise. Officially it returns close to 59mpg, and real-world figures in the mid-50s are entirely realistic for careful drivers.
Inside, the cabin feels grown-up and well thought through, with twin digital displays on higher trims, generous rear legroom and a 451-litre boot that swallows a family's luggage with ease. Kia's seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty remains the best in the business and a huge reason private buyers keep choosing the Niro. It may not stir the soul, but as dependable, low-cost family transport, little beats it.
UK price from: £27,795
Specifications
| Engine | 1.6-litre GDi hybrid petrol |
| Power | 141 PS (104 kW) |
| 0-60 mph | 10.4 seconds |
| Top speed | 104 mph |
| Fuel economy | 58.9 mpg (WLTP combined) |
| CO2 | 109 g/km |
| Boot space | 451 litres |
| Length | 4,420 mm |
| Transmission | 6-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
Features
- 10.25-inch touchscreen with Kia Connect and live traffic updates
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring
- Dual 10.25-inch panoramic displays on higher trims
- Heated front seats and heated steering wheel
- Adaptive cruise control with lane follow assist
- Blind-spot collision avoidance assist
- Rear parking sensors with reversing camera
- Wireless mobile phone charging pad
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (set) | £54.99 | OEM quality; fits 2022-on Niro hybrid, front axle |
| Oil filter | £11.99 | Spin-on type for 1.6 GDi hybrid petrol |
| Cabin pollen filter | £16.49 | Activated carbon type; replace every 2 years |
| Wiper blades (pair, 26in/16in) | £24.99 | Flat aero type, front pair |
| 12V auxiliary battery | £129.99 | AGM type for hybrid auxiliary systems |
| Front brake discs (pair) | £89.99 | 280mm vented; fits front axle |
Pros
- Genuinely frugal hybrid running costs with low VED
- Kia's 7-year/100,000-mile warranty is class-leading
- Spacious cabin with a properly usable 451-litre boot
- Comfortable, quiet ride that suits long motorway miles
Cons
- Infotainment can feel a step behind the very latest rivals
- List prices have crept up close to premium competitors
- The 1.6 hybrid can sound strained when worked hard uphill
- No spare wheel supplied, only a tyre repair kit
