Kia started off the Chicago Auto Show with a bang. They came right out of the gate showing off their new 2017 Optima Hybrid, and introduced a plug-in version as well. Then they kept the green-hype train rolling with the unveiling of all-new Niro. The Niro is a compact crossover hybrid, and Kia thinks it will dramatically change the way the world looks at the segment.
Their biggest talking point is how the Niro has been designed, from start to finish, to be a hybrid crossover, so there are no concessions made to accommodate battery packaging, weight distribution or cargo space. They claim the result is a crossover that is better designed, and better driving than anything else in the segment.
We will have to wait until we get a chance to drive it to be sure, but it is a very promising start. I spoke with the head of product planning, and he also confirmed that there will be a plug-in hybrid version in the future as well to join the plug-in Optima.
You had our curiosity, Kia. Now you have our attention.
