What would you say about a small B-segment SUV like the Niro Concept? It looks kind of cool with its big 20-inch off-road tires and tough styling attitude, doesn’t it? Then again, we all know what happens to conceptual studies once pragmatism and market studies sink in…
Nevertheless, Kia states that its Frankfurt Motor Show star was created to gauge potential customer response for a production model that would go against the Nissan Juke, adding that while it “may be a designers’ eye view of a future B-segment contender, that doesn’t mean it is a pure flight of fancy”.
Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer at Kia’s Frankfurt office and the person who led the concept team, commented: “Right from the start, this particular B-segment project was about looking at where Kia might take its contenders in this part of the market.”
“As designers we have to look at what the future could hold, not just what is probable, and we believe drivers want excitement and new solutions from their vehicles. It is clear that the B-segment is growing as European motorists seek to downsize but it is equally clear that they refuse to give up individuality and distinctiveness – so Niro explores one avenue to satisfy that desire,” he added.
“We would love nothing more than to see all of our concept designs on the streets of Frankfurt or London or Paris tomorrow. As Kia looks to add to its range of small cars for this future European market you have to look at where the market opportunities exist and how we can exploit them. Perhaps Niro answers that challenge” he commented.
The study has a 4,185mm overall length, 1,850mm width and 1,558mm height, while riding on a 2,590cm wheelbase and 1,630cm tracks, and is fitted with a 1.6-litre T-GDi engine paired to a hybrid electric drive. The 158hp (160PS) turbocharged gasoline unit is lined to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission driving the front wheels, while the 44hp (45PS) electric motor acts on the rear axle.
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