Kia Niro hybrid to bring major change to air quality

Next-generation cars will be programmed to adapt to their surroundings on the run, resulting in wide-ranging benefits for owners.

The new Kia Niro hybrid brings clever tech to help improve air quality.

Next-generation hybrid cars will automatically shut off their engines near schools to improve air quality for children.

Kia is set to introduce “Green Zone” technology in its next-gen Niro range that automatically switches to battery power in pre-set locations, as well as areas saved by customers.

The 2022 Kia Niro brings a choice of three engine types.

Owners could set the car to cut petrol power in their street to return home in a silent, emissions-free manner.

Kia says “the Niro comes equipped with Kia’s Green Zone Drive Mode that automatically activates the electric-only drive operation of the car to ensure zero-emissions mobility in certain environments and situations”.

Fresh tech and sustainable materials feature inside the Kia Niro.

“For example, when driving in green zones such as residential areas, or nearby schools and hospitals, the Niro HEV model automatically uses electric power based on navigation and driving history data,” it says.

“The driver can also set dedicated green zones into the navigation system to reduce pollution in areas such as near their home or place of work.”

The new Kia Niro is roomier than the outgoing model.

Kia and Hyundai already use mapping and road sign data to automatically adjust climate control settings in long tunnels, or suggest drivers activate sports mode on winding roads.

Due to arrive locally in the third quarter of 2022, the Niro has a bigger body with fresh looks and a more spacious interior.

The range will offer a choice of hybrid, plug-in hybrid or dedicated battery electric power. Full details, including prices and detailed specifications, are not available yet.

The outgoing Niro was a relatively late addition to the brand’s local lineup.

But we know the hybrid will combine a 1.6-litre, 77kW/144Nm petrol engine with a 32kW electric motor and six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The combination is reportedly good for 4.8L/100km efficiency that rivals Toyota’s best-selling RAV4 Hybrid.

Other eco credentials include interior headlining made from recycled wallpaper, and eucalyptus leaf fibre in the seats.

The current-generation Niro starts at $41,990 drive-away for a conventional hybrid mode, rising to $49,990 for the plug-in hybrid and $67,490 for the electric version.