The Kia Niro II 1.6 GDI (171 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid DCT represents a significant iteration in Kia’s commitment to electrified vehicles, launched in May 2024 and continuing through July 2025. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the second-generation Niro (ES2) lineup – built on the updated 1HX platform – this variant combines a gasoline direct injection engine with an electric motor and a dual-clutch transmission to deliver a balance of efficiency, performance, and practicality. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile, fuel-efficient compact SUV with the added benefit of all-electric driving capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Niro |
| Generation | Niro II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GDI (171 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid DCT |
| Start of production | May, 2024 |
| End of production | July, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 0.8-1.0 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 19-23 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 161 km/h (100.04 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 11.1 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 360 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Battery weight | 111 kg (244.71 lbs.) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats / Under the trunk |
| All-electric range | 59-65 km (36.66 – 40.39 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 12.9-14 kWh/100 km |
| Max speed (electric) | 134 km/h (83.26 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 84 Hp @ 1798-2500 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 203 Nm @ 0-1798 rpm (149.73 lb.-ft. @ 0-1798 rpm) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 171 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| System torque | 265 Nm @ 1000-2400 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 1000-2400 rpm) |
| Power | 93 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 4000 rpm (98.83 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / G4LE |
| Engine displacement | 1580 cm3 (96.42 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 14:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1519-1610 kg (3348.82 – 3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450-541 kg (992.08 – 1192.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 348 l (12.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1342 l (47.39 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 37 l (9.77 US gal | 8.14 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1010 kg (2226.67 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4420 mm (174.02 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1573-1585 mm (61.93 – 62.4 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585-1596 mm (62.4 – 62.83 in.) |
| Front overhang | 895 mm (35.24 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 805 mm (31.69 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.285 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 ET46; 7.5J x 18 ET52 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Niro PHEV is Kia’s Smartstream G4LE 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 93 horsepower and 134 Nm (98.83 lb-ft) of torque. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a Dual Continuous Variable Valve Timing (DOHC, Dual CVVT) system to optimize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions. The engine is paired with a 84 horsepower electric motor, drawing power from an 11.1 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack. The combined system output reaches 171 horsepower and 265 Nm (195.45 lb-ft) of torque. A 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) manages power delivery, offering quick and smooth gear changes. The battery pack is positioned under the rear seats and extending into the trunk, minimizing impact on passenger space while maximizing energy storage.
Driving Characteristics
The Niro II 1.6 GDI Plug-in Hybrid DCT delivers a refined driving experience. In all-electric mode, it provides silent and responsive acceleration, suitable for short commutes and urban driving. The electric motor’s instant torque contributes to brisk off-the-line performance. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally seamless. The DCT provides quick shifts, but can occasionally exhibit some hesitation at lower speeds. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.9 seconds is respectable for a hybrid SUV, but not particularly sporty. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride. Compared to the standard hybrid Niro, the PHEV offers a more engaging driving experience due to the increased power output and the responsiveness of the electric motor. Compared to higher-trim Niro models with more powerful engines, this variant prioritizes efficiency over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 GDI Plug-in Hybrid DCT trim typically included a comprehensive suite of standard features. These generally included automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Available optional extras included a larger touchscreen display, a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and heated/ventilated front seats.
Chassis & Braking
The Niro II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut design, while the rear features an independent multi-link setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Niro II 1.6 GDI Plug-in Hybrid DCT was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and value. Its combined fuel consumption of 0.8-1.0 l/100 km (294-235.2 US mpg) and all-electric range of 59-65 km (36.66 – 40.39 mi) made it a compelling option for environmentally conscious buyers. Compared to the standard Niro Hybrid, the PHEV offered the added benefit of electric-only driving, but at a higher price point. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, the Niro offered a competitive combination of features, fuel economy, and warranty coverage.
Legacy
The Kia Niro II 1.6 GDI Plug-in Hybrid DCT has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. The Smartstream engine and DCT transmission have demonstrated good long-term reliability, with few widespread issues reported. The lithium-polymer battery pack is expected to maintain a significant portion of its capacity for many years with proper care. On the used car market, these models hold their value relatively well, reflecting their fuel efficiency and practicality. As the automotive industry continues to transition towards electrification, the Niro PHEV represents a significant step in Kia’s journey towards sustainable mobility.
