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 2020 Hyundai Kona comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Adaptive cruise control added to top-trim Kona Ultimate.Small changes to standard and optional equipment.
PROS Optional turbocharged engine provides quick acceleration Nimble handling makes it enjoyable to drive Lots of features for your money
CONS Weak base engine Gear shifts from the turbocharged engine's transmission are often unrefined Interior is trimmed with a lot of hard plastic panels
A few high-end features trickle down to the new mid-range SEL Plus model for 2020. Previously only available on the top-spec Ultimate, the SEL Plus comes with a 4.2-inch color display located between the two analog gauges and a wireless charging pad for smartphones. The auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink is now standard on both the Limited and Ultimate models as well as a new orange interior accent kit that automatically is added to either trim if the Sunset Orange or Ultra Black exterior colors are chosen.
Pros Standout styling, punchy turbo four, packed with features.
Cons Tight cargo space, numb steering.
The 2020 Hyundai Kona is an eyeful, but has nearly everything crossover buyers want in a city-friendly package.
Pros Smart and stylish cabin Standard active safety tech Great infotainment system Decent fuel economy EV version available
Cons Overwhelming styling Lackluster acceleration Unrefined dual-clutch transmission Small-ish back seat and cargo hold Price on top-end models
