In Brief
The second-generation Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybrid mostly advances in the realm of design and equipment, without a deep overhaul of its technical fundamentals. It preserves a smooth, enjoyable driving experience and roomy enough interior, but its suspension could be better and the cargo area remains limited. Its fuel economy stays reasonable for a compact SUV in this class. That said, the Premium trim sees a substantial price bump compared with the previous model.
Those piloting the second-generation Niro (since 2021) shouldn’t fret too much: this “new” model doesn’t outshine the current one. The core technicals of the car (chassis and engine) are retained, and styling tweaks are minimal. Behind the wheel, even the sharpest observer would be hard pressed to tell a difference in feel between the refreshed model and the one currently on sale.
Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybride 138 ch DCT6 Premium: Pleasant, Fluid Performance
The notably smooth operation of the 1.6 GDI hybrid remains, blending gas and electric drive with a quiet ease, and doing so without abrupt transitions. There’s no jolt when switching between power sources, even when climbing a steep grade at low throttle. You won’t hear the gas engine scream during a vigorous surge, as is sometimes the case with Toyota’s non-rechargeable hybrid package used in rivals like the C-HR. Under the hood, electric and gasoline power work in concert in a well-mannered symphony. Admittedly, the combined 138 hp—102 hp from the gasoline unit and 43.5 hp from the electric motor—needs a bit of help to move the 1,524 kg curb weight. Kia lists a 0 to 60 mph time of about 11.3 seconds to reach 100 km/h, which isn’t anything flashy. In real-world driving, especially with passengers and luggage—the Niro’s intended purpose—the clock should add a few extra seconds.
Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybride 138 ch DCT6 Premium: A Thirst for Power?
Put simply, a bit more horsepower would translate into more confident highway overtakes or mountain climbs where the powertrain is taxed. In such moments—and in other typical long-distance trips—the engine will understandably demand more fuel. Yet in more favorable conditions, our onboard computer logged an average of 6.1 L/100 km (about 38–39 mpg US) over several hundred kilometers. That’s a modest appetite for a vehicle of this size, especially given its dimensions: 4.43 m long, 1.83 m wide, and 1.55 m tall. The electric motor draws on a fixed 1.32 kWh battery, enabling longer stretches of 100% electric driving. With two paddles behind the steering wheel, you can fine-tune energy regeneration at deceleration in a few simple maneuvers, depending on the chosen mode.
Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybride 138 ch DCT6 Premium: More Power, More Edge
Gaining some extra power would also let the chassis shine more clearly. The Niro stays nimble in steering input and reacts with assurance, yet the suspension’s excessive suppleness can let it lean in corners and bob over pronounced road blemishes at speed. This roll is noticeable on sharp deformations in the pavement, which subtly diminishes driving pleasure, though it does not clearly benefit ride comfort. Despite that柔 softness, the ride isn’t entirely harsh. The interior remains comfortable, though the seat upholstery can feel a bit firm on longer trips. The generous rear legroom is a definite win for passengers.
However, Kia didn’t use the mid-cycle refresh to expand trunk volume, which remains modest at 430 dm³ (about 15.2 cu ft) thanks to its awkward packaging. The refresh focused on styling: the front end looks cleaner with a redesigned bumper and grille, and slimmer headlights. The rear signature lighting keeps its diagonal motif, and the tailgate with integrated diffuser underwent changes as well.
Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybride 138 ch DCT6 Premium: An Updated Cabin
At launch, the lineup continues to feature Motion, Active, and Premium trims, but this non-rechargeable hybrid is the default choice. The plug-in hybrid version with 141 hp and the all-electric e-Niro (136 hp) have been retired from the lineup. A host of new features freshen the cabin, now with an all-new dashboard layout that sometimes reflects onto the windshield a bit too much.
The central screen grows to 12.3 inches (up from 10.25), and the 100% digital instrument cluster also tops out at 12.3 inches. The large shift knob remains, and its ergonomics are friendly, especially during parking: a quarter-turn to the right selects Drive, the same motion to the left selects Reverse. Parking is engaged with a center button labeled “P.” In higher Premium trims, digital key 2.0, a head-up display, 360° camera and remote parking assist add to the package, for a few extra euros. The base price (Motion) starts at €34,950, which is €170 less than the current model’s base, while the Premium trim climbs by €2,130 to €40,850 in the test vehicle.
Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybride 138 ch DCT6 Premium: What Stands Out?
- Refined powertrain and smooth operation
- Spacious rear legroom
- Intuitive controls
Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybride 138 ch DCT6 Premium: Drawbacks
- Rising price, especially for the top trim
- Comfort not fully plush
- Limited cargo space
The Auto-Journal Verdict: 3/5
Aside from a cleaner silhouette and modernized equipment, the Niro doesn’t undergo a full metamorphosis. This compact SUV, well built, enjoyable to drive, with decent fuel economy and good rear-seat space, unfortunately comes with sharply higher pricing at the top end (+€2,130).
Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybride 138 ch DCT6 Premium: In Numbers
Find our first drive of the Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybrid 138 hp DCT6 Premium in Auto-Journal issue no. 1214 dated 23/07/2026.
Comparison Table
| Features | Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybrid |
|---|---|
| Combined power | 138 hp |
| Gas power | 102 hp |
| Electric power | 43.5 hp |
| 0-60 mph | About 11 seconds |
| curb weight | 3,360 lb |
| Average economy | 6.1 L/100 km (about 38–39 mpg US) |
| Length | 174.3 in |
| Width | 71.9 in |
| Height | 61.0 in |
| Cargo volume | 15.2 cu ft |
| Battery capacity (net) | 1.32 kWh |
| Central display | 12.3 inches |
| Motion price | €34,950 |
| Premium price | €40,850 |
| Premium price delta | +€2,130 |
| Auto-Journal rating | 3/5 |
Key Takeaways
- The Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybrid preserves its mechanical foundation while updating style and equipment.
- Combined output reaches 138 hp, paired with a smooth, pleasant driving experience.
- Average fuel economy of 6.1 L/100 km (about 38–39 mpg US) is reasonable for a compact SUV.
- The interior remains a strong point, with ample rear legroom.
- trunk volume stays limited at 430 dm³ (about 15.2 cu ft) and the suspension remains a point of improvement.
- Premium pricing climbs notably, topping out around €40,850 before options.
- Auto-Journal awards it 3/5, praising usability and efficiency but calling out the higher price and modest comfort.
FAQ
What is the power output of the Kia Niro 1.6 GDI Hybrid?
The combined power is 138 hp, with 102 hp from the gasoline engine and 43.5 hp from the electric motor.
What is the real-world fuel economy of the Kia Niro Hybrid?
During our test, the average consumption logged was 6.1 L/100 km.
Has the Kia Niro Hybrid changed dimensions?
No—dimensions remain the same: 4.43 m long, 1.83 m wide, and 1.55 m tall (about 174.3 in × 71.9 in × 61.0 in).
What are the new equipment highlights?
The Niro now features a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, a redesigned dashboard, and, in Premium, options like Digital Key 2.0, a head-up display, 360° camera, and remote parking assist.
What is the price of the Niro Hybrid in Premium trim?
Premium price is €40,850 before options, up €2,130 from the base price.
What is the cargo volume of the Kia Niro Hybrid?
Cargo volume remains 430 dm³ (about 15.2 cu ft), unchanged from the previous model.
