KIA UNVEILS NIRO CONCEPT, OPTIMA HYBRID AND OPTIMA HYBRID PLUG-IN AT THE 2016 CHICAGO AUTO SHOW
CHICAGO (February 11, 2016) - Kia introduced the all-new Niro, a hybrid utility concept vehicle, during the 2016 Chicago Auto Show Media Preview. Perhaps the most defining feature of the vehicle is its hybrid efficiency with a design that resembles a crossover, as Kia is looking to create a brand new segment.
The compact crossover offers an eco-car design, excellent fuel economy - at 50 mpg combined - and a combination gas-electric engine. Key energy-saving features include a driver-only ventilation and Eco-Drive assist system. The gas engine and electric motor combine for a total new output of 146 hp and 195 lb.-ft. of torque.
"It's the first to be engineered from the ground-up as a dedicated hybrid," said Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning at Kia Motors America. "It's not your ordinary green car."
Kia also revealed a redesigned Optima Hybrid and an all-new Optima Hybrid Plug-in, the latest vehicles to join the recently redesigned Kia Optima lineup. The refreshed Optima Hybrid offers an improved powertrain that should increase fuel economy by approximately 10 percent for an estimated 40 mpg in city and highway combined. The Optima Hybrid and the Optima Hybrid Plug-in both boast 154 hp, but the plug-in also touts a fully-electric driving mode in addition to the gas engine for an estimated 27 mpg and an impressive 600 miles of overall range. There subtle stylistic differences that set the hybrid models apart from the gas-powered Optima.
The 2017 Niro, along with the two new Optima hybrids, are part of Kia's plan to nearly triple its green car line-up by 2020. The Niro is expected to go on sale in early 2017 and the Optima hybrid and hybrid plug-in are set to appear at dealerships by the end of this summer. Pricing has yet to be introduced for all three models.
To watch complete coverage of the 2016 Chicago Auto Show Media Preview press conferences, please visit http://www.ustream.tv/channel/chicago-auto-show-2011. For more information about the 2016 Chicago Auto Show, please visit www.chicagoautoshow.com.