2022 Kia Niro Spied With Bold New Face, Could Debut Later This Year

Updated for the 2020 model year, the Kia Niro is about to be replaced by an entirely new generation, which is currently in the road-testing phase.

This prototype was snapped on the streets of Germany, wearing layers of camo and plastic cladding meant to keep that HabaNiro Concept-esque design tucked away from prying eyes.

Compared to the study, the new Niro has a more rounded overall styling and regular instead of butterfly doors, though it does feature similar boomerang-shaped LED taillights. These are mounted vertically on each side of the tailgate and give it a more modern presence. The headlamps sit further down and incorporate similar-styled LED DRLs to the concept. The bonnet is now wider and protrudes more into the front fenders, and the tiger nose grille appears to have been reinterpreted.

Compared to the current Niro, the new-generation model is expected to have a slightly bigger footprint and a longer wheelbase for extra legroom at the back. Higher quality materials should be used inside, though the emphasis will be on the tech gear. Thus, it will arrive with a larger infotainment screen, featuring all the bells and whistles required from a modern unit, and a generous digital instrument cluster.

Self-charging and plug-in hybrid powertrains should be part of the lineup, alongside battery-electric variants. Details surrounding the engine lineup have yet to surface, but nonetheless, the new e-Niro (if it retains the nomenclature) might offer over 300 miles (483 km) on a single charge. The 64 kWh battery pack powering the 201 HP electric motor in the current one enables a 282-mile (454-km) range on the WLTP cycle.

A sportier model could be in the pipeline, using the PHEV assembly of the plug-in hybrid Sorento, a 1.6-liter petrol engine with an electric motor and a 13.8 kWh battery, which has a total output of 261 HP and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque.

Kia is rumored to host the world premiere of the all-new Niro towards the end of 2021.