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
T-Cross offers just enough over a Polo to make it worth thinking about.
Pros Spacious and agreeable to drive Different to a Polo, Refined enough
Cons Less refined and more expensive than the car it’s based on. Low quality interior
The VW T-Cross is a compact yet roomy SUV which comes with loads of standard equipment. It doesn’t look as dramatic or feel quite as comfortable as some alternatives.
Pros Big boot Lots of passenger space Loads of standard equipment
Cons Noisy at speed Materials feel a bit cheap Alternatives look more exciting
The Volkswagen T-Cross is one of the class leaders in the small SUV sector.
PROS
Spacious Well-equipped Desirable badge
CONS
Expensive top models Quicker rivals No hybrid model
