Skip to main content

The new Kia Niro popped up in public and there’s a look inside [Images]

Kia revealed the first images of the new Niro last week, but now we are getting a closer look at the updates in person.

What changes with the new Kia Niro?

The Niro was first introduced in 2016, with the EV version debuting in 2018. Kia launched the second-generation Niro in 2022 with fully electric, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and hybrid (HEV) powertrain options.

Last week, we got our first look at the new Niro facelift after Kia unveiled it in South Korea. The new look is based on Kia’s “Opposites United” design theme, as seen on its latest EV models, including the EV3, EV4, and EV5.

While you can clearly tell this is still a Niro, Kia gave it new wheel arch cladding and a lower door garnish to give it a more premium feel.

Advertisement - scroll for more content

Outside of that, the updated Niro also gains newly designed 18″ wheels and minor changes to the front and rear ends to give it a cleaner overall look.

We’ve only seen the changes in pictures, but the new Kia Niro looks even better in person. Our friends at ShortsCar spotted the updated model in South Korea for the first time, offering a look at the changes.

You can see the new design brings the Niro more in line with Kia’s new EVs and updated models, such as the Telluride and Seltos.

Inside, the new Niro features Kia’s dual 12.3″ driver and infotainment screen setup. It still includes plenty of physical buttons for climate control, audio, and more.

Kia will reveal more details, including prices, powertrain options, and more, in March. Since Kia just announced prices for the 2026 Niro EV in the US on Monday, the updated model will likely launch in 2027.

The 2026 Kia Niro EV starts at $39,700 in the US with an EPA-estimated driving range of up to 253 miles. It’s also available as a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid.

Do you like the updates? Or should Kia go back to the drawing board again? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Stay up to date with the latest content by subscribing to Electrek on Google News. You’re reading Electrek— experts who break news about Tesla, electric vehicles, and green energy, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow Electrek on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our YouTube channel for the latest reviews.

Comments

Author

Avatar for Peter Johnson Peter Johnson

Peter Johnson is covering the auto industry’s step-by-step transformation to electric vehicles. He is an experienced investor, financial writer, and EV enthusiast. His enthusiasm for electric vehicles, primarily Tesla, is a significant reason he pursued a career in investments. If he isn’t telling you about his latest 10K findings, you can find him enjoying the outdoors or exercising