Local Kia dealership Cycle & Carriage has revealed the latest, second generation Niro Hybrid, which the brand claims include several best-in-class offerings like its advanced driver assistance systems and an efficient 1.6-litre hybrid engine.

Aligned with other models in Kia’s lineup, the new Niro Hybrid features the “Kia Connect Lite” service, giving users the power to control their vehicle remotely, check vehicle status and diagnostics, and book maintenance sessions.

A powered tailgate and USB charging ports for all occupants supply the Niro with more convenience right from the get-go. On the inside, the touchscreen’s size has been bumped up from 8 inches in the previous generation to 10.25 inches. Dashboard clutter has been reduced by combining multimedia and climate control options on the same touchpad.

Another key difference within the cabin are the seats, which Kia claims are better bolstered for longer haul commutes. Ventilated and heated seats allow occupants to indulge in a more comfortable driving experience, although we wonder if the latter has been mistakenly specced for another market.

The seats are made of vegan leather from eucalyptus trees, 56% of the headlining is made from recycled plastics, and recycled fibres make up 75% of the multi-use cargo screen. The car’s interior door panels are covered with BTX-free paint that do not contain benzene, toluene, and xylene.

The Niro now comes equipped with a generous offering of safety systems, such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Rear-Cross Traffic Avoidance Assist and Safe Exit Assist.

Powering the Niro Hybrid is a 1.6-litre engine that produces 130 PS at 5,500 rpm. This means the Niro slots under category A COE, which in the current COE climate gives us at least S$20k worth of “savings” over category B and E premiums. A smart, timely move by Kia, we reckon.

It is easy on the wallet at the pumps, too. A claimed 25km/l on paper is comparable to a similarly-priced Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid. It falls under VES Band A2, allowing customers to enjoy a $15,000 rebate. This brings the base spec EX trim to a price just under S$154,000, which in current context is a rather competitive asking price. A higher spec SX trim adds more safety tech, primarily Lane Keep Assist. You have 8 exterior shades to choose from regardless of trim, but given how Kia has configured a rather tempting product in a period hampered by microchip shortages and supply chain disruptions, you might have to be quick to get first dibs on colour choice…