New Kia Niro Plus
The forthcoming Kia Niro Plus range is set to offer Kiwis greater space, a larger technology suite and more electrified mobility, with both hybrid and full electric versions available.
Aug 10, 2022
Both models in the Kia Niro Plus line-up qualify for the Clean Car Discount programme, taking the total number of Kia models that now qualify for the rebate to an impressive 27.
The arrival of the new-generation Niro Plus is part of Kia’s global ‘Plan S’ strategy, designed to provide efficient eco-minded mobility to an ever-wider audience at various price points.
The first generation DE Kia Niro is about to morph into the new Kia Niro Plus, providing more of everything for the local market.
Kia has made several enhancements to the physical vehicle with an increase in both length and height. The new Niro Plus has increased by 80mm (compared to the first-generation Niro without roof rack), to give occupants more space inside the cabin. Slimmed-down structures have also contributed to greater cabin space compared to the original model. Additional passenger safety and convenience features including door reflectors and assist handles are also fitted.
The headline here though, says Kia New Zealand, is the local pricing, which offers plenty of value for money for those wishing to embrace hybrid-electric or fully electric mobility.
The HEV Light opens the range, available from only $37,990 inc GST (+ORC), while the EV Light is priced at $64,990 inc GST (+ORC). A Clean Car discount will apply, reducing the final transaction price even further.
The launch of the new Niro Plus range now means an impressive 27 new Kia models qualify for rebates as part of the Clean Car programme, delivering an impressive breadth of models and specification, ranging across affordable, mid-range and premium new ECO vehicles.
“We’re proud to take yet another step in Kia’s global ‘Plan S’ strategy and, with the launch of this new range, we’re playing a key role in the introduction of attainable mobility services and vehicle electrification,” said Managing Director of Kia New Zealand, Todd McDonald.
“With the availability of Kia Niro Plus, it's yet another compelling reason for many more Kiwis to consider low-and-no emission motoring and become part of the switch to Kia electrified vehicle solutions.
“The new Niro Plus caters for the changing demands of modern consumers, all with the added appeal of a more accessible price point and dramatically increased cargo capacity and passenger space. Whether it is used as a family vehicle or a more tool of trade business vehicle, the Niro Plus has what it takes to deliver the goods.”
Further to the increased space available in the cabin of the Niro Plus, the model’s safety systems have also been overhauled and added to. Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go as well as Rear View Monitor with Dynamic Guidelines all now feature as standard across the range.
Further grade-specific technological advancements include an 8" Colour LCD Touchscreen Infotainment display, Digital Cluster with 7" TFT LCD display augmented with the added functionality of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
An increase in all-round cabin space, thanks to revised seat and door trims, also adds to both the feeling of spaciousness and the real-world cargo carrying capacity.
Smartly considered packaging changes have resulted in an improvement in total boot capacity, meaning the Kia Niro Plus offers particular appeal as a business or ridesharing vehicle capable of carrying a variety of items or equipment. For example, the EV model offers an impressive luggage capacity of almost 1500-litres (with rear seats folded down).
In addition to an electric range of 423km, it can recharge from 10% to 80% in 47 minutes when using a 100kW DC charger.
The Niro Plus range will be available for test drives at Giltrap North Shore from October onwards.