Kia Niro Hybrid Teased
Kia is teasing its new hybrid model, the Niro, before its debut in 2016.
The Niro, which Kia calls a Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV), will make its production debut sometime in early 2016. It will share its platform and running gear with the new Hyundai Ioniq, both of which will be fighting to take away some market share from the Toyota Prius.
SEE ALSO: Hyundai Ioniq Named as Prius-Fighter
Under the hood, the Niro and Ioniq are both expected to use a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, mated to a 32 kW electric motor powered by lithium-polymer batteries. A six-speed dual-clutch transmission is likely to send that power to the front wheels. All-wheel drive is expected to be offered as an option sometime after launch.
The Kia Niro will fit in between the Sportage and Soul in terms of size. Rumor has it that this Kia hybrid will be coming to the U.S., and is likely to make its debut at the either the 2016 Detroit or Chicago auto show.
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Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>
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It kinda looks like it should have a blue oval on the front.