The 2018 Kia Niro Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid breathe new life into the hybrid segment, with a practical wagon shape and excellent interior you’d never know was a hybrid.
Pros Utility vehicle styling Good noise suppression Handsome, intuitive interior 40-mpg-plus fuel economy Plug-in version priced well
Cons AWD unavailable Sluggish acceleration at speed No crash-test data yet Plug-in range now only average
The 2018 Kia Niro ranked #5 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Kia Niro has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 14 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Magnificent fuel economy Spacious, comfortable seats Generous cargo capacity Upscale cabin
Cons Less athletic than rivals Not available with AWD High base price
The most significant change for the 2018 Niro is the addition of lane keeping assist, replacing the previous lane departure warning system. It's included in the Advanced Technology package available on LX and EX trims, and it's standard on the top Touring trim.
PROS Impressive fuel economy from the base trim model One of the more affordable hybrids in the segment Batteries are hidden under the rear seat and don't affect cargo space
CONS Feature-laden Touring trim sacrifices fuel efficiency Less cargo space than most rivals Feels lazy when driving in the default Eco mode All-wheel drive isn't offered despite crossover styling
The 2019 Hyundai Veloster ranked #6 in Compact Cars. Currently the Hyundai Veloster has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 13 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Nimble handling Supportive seats User-friendly cabin tech Above-average cargo capacity
Cons Below-average fuel economy Some cheap cabin materials
New exterior and interior design.New 2.0-liter inline-four base engine.Revised suspension for better handling.Part of the second Veloster generation introduced for 2019.
Pros Unique and functional three-door body style Enjoyable power from the Veloster's turbocharged engine Sporty handling around turns
Cons Base engine is down on power Less trims and option packages mean fewer choices No power seat adjustments
The Veloster N is the first American ambassador for Hyundai’s performance sub-brand and already the company’s best-driving model ever. Its whimsical three-door design is derived from the base Veloster, but its animated turbo four-cylinder and terrific chassis tuning are N exclusives. While orders will have to wait until November, our first driving impressions— assured body control, faithful steering, and steadfast brakes—revealed the Veloster N’s legitimate hot-hatch greatness were impressive.
Pros Animated engine, faithful steering, remarkable resistance to understeer.
Cons Muffled engine note.
