Kia on Wednesday unveiled its new range of Niro hybrid and EV crossovers, as well as updates to its hugely popular Telluride SUV.
Both nameplates are important to the automaker in different ways. The Telluride has been a surprise sales success for the company, while the new Niro models are coming as consumers are pressured by high gas prices and growing interest in electric vehicles.
The Niro range includes all-electric, plug-in hybrid and traditional hybrid variants, all of which have been redesigned for the second generation of vehicles. They include updated designs and additional safety and convenience features, including an available 10.25-inch driver control and information screen.
“The momentum of Kia electric vehicles continues with the introduction of the all-new, second-generation Niro, which offers more refinement, versatility, connectivity and technology than ever before,” said Steven Center, COO of Kia America, in a statement. “The Niro 2023 was developed for today’s needs and for sustainable mobility of the future.”
The Niro hybrid is expected to achieve 53 combined mpg and an estimated range of 588 miles. However, the Niro EV lags other competitors with a target electric range of 253 miles, while other automakers offer vehicles with ranges in excess of 300 miles.
The redesigned models could boost sales of the Niro, which totaled fewer than 26,200 units in 2021. Compared to the Telluride’s 93,705 units last year.
The Telluride SUV has been an outstanding success for Kia since the mid-size SUV went into production at a Georgia plant in early 2019. Its affordability and features make it one of the most sought-after vehicles in the US auto industry.
The 2023 Telluride expands on that offering, including additional safety and comfort features, a redesigned interior and an updated exterior. Kia also announced two new off-road-inspired models for the 2023 model year.
The updated Telluride is expected to go on sale towards the end of the third quarter. The newly designed Niro models will go on sale this summer.
Kia said it will announce prices for the vehicles more closely when they go on sale. Both were unveiled at the New York International Auto Show on Wednesday.
2023 Kia Telluride SUV
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