The second-generation Kia Niro plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) crossover utility vehicle gets a 25% bump in its all-electric range. Niro PHEV climbs to approximately 33 electric-only miles (versus the previous model year’s approximate 26 miles) when fully charged. Of course, the beauty of a PHEV is once the all-electric range is depleted, the vehicle automatically switches to gas-fueled power. A week-long test drive of the PHEV Niro drew attention to the vehicle’s lengthy list of driver assist technologies, including blind spot collision warning, smart cruise control with stop and go, parking distance warning-reverse, and lane following assist.

Niro PHEV has a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine as well as a 62 kW electric motor. The total output is 180 horsepower and 195 lbs-ft of torque. The power plant mates to a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Niro PHEV relies on an 11.1 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack for its all-electric driving. Two trims, EX and SX Touring, are offered for the Niro PHEV. (Other Niro model options are a hybrid-electric and an all-electric.) From an option equipment standpoint, Kia offers a cold weather package that adds a supplemental cabin heater, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The tested Kia Niro PHEV SX Touring has a gas-only combined city/highway mpg of 48 and carries a MSRP of $39,490.