[Neuron]

It's been uploaded by Kia last month but I don't think it's been posted yet. The Niro is shown towing another car and there's an optional 1,300 kg towing capacity available from Q4 2016. Unusual for a hybrid SUV but exciting. Perfect for small trailers.

 

[Alex]

That sort of towing capacity will allow you to tow a small boat or entry-level camper quite easily without worry about if you're stressing any components since it's always good to never tow right up to the towing capacity range. Some people I know only go right up to 75% of the rating.

 

[Neuron]

Makes me think what the optional 1,300 kg towing feature includes. I assume the Kia Niro base model without the option has the ability to tow anyways. Maybe an extra tow bar or tow ball? Depending on how much this costs, you could be able to Diy something instead of going OEM.

 

[Broncos]

I'm sure a DIY project wouldn't be too hard to make. Seems pretty straightforward once you're using the right grade of metals and have a good sense for fabrication

 

[DeNiro]

I'm pretty sure the Niro platform won't be changed with or without the tow package so you're most likely paying for the towing equipment than any chassis changes. You can most likely Diy your own rig that could end up performing better than the OEM parts.

 

[Broncos]

Definitely, It'll be great to see what someone can do with this. Possibly even aftermarket support ?

 

[Neuron]

Just realized most people won't know how to install the electrical needed to hook up a trailer to the Niro's battery, mostly for brakes and signaling.

 

[Broncos]

Completely forgot about those things. There`s no direct plug-and-play option for trailer harnesses

 

[Neuron]

Think the early Niro adopters can install the tow package at a later date or they're stuck with what they have?

 

[Broncos]

Really depends on all the components involved. If it's just a simple rig welded onto the rear end somewhere, I'm sure they can be added on

 

[Alex]

If Kia is smart they will have the tow package be something that is easily bolted on much like how other packages are setup.

Giving customers that option will help them a bit in sales since this can be the make it or break it thing for some people.

 

[Broncos]

That would be ideal, at that point majority of the consumers can do it themselves and would opt to buy it

 

[Alex]

That or have the dealership or some independent shop do it for them, all for cheap. Should't be more than an hour, even 30min might be possible, if it's a bolt on how hard and time consuming can it be?

 

[Broncos]

Shouldn't be time consuming at all if it's a bolt on. Really hope to see it as an easy to install/remove bolt on though. Hopefully they don't try to complicate it

 

[mrjirey]

There is a tow package available in the UK. I have not looked to see if there is an easy connection for the travailing lights though. I'm interested in a hidden type receiver that I can install my rear bike rack to, so if anyone hears of that, please post it here

 

[basicbill]

I installed a hitch on my 2011 Tucson in about 20 minutes. Bolts torqued to spec. Of course it was designed for the Tucson's under carriage. I think that once there are more of these on the road, we'll see some after market solutions.

 

[NormanL]

Niro Touring towing: I'm new to the forum/discussion, and confused, so I apologize if I missed the initial discussion. My KIA dealer informed me the Niro Touring is not approved for towing/hitch, KIA offers no towing package, and will not support warranty for Niro being used for towing. You guys make it sound like a done deal. What's the official scoop?

 

[atc98092]

Niro Touring towing: I'm new to the forum/discussion, and confused, so I apologize if I missed the initial discussion. My KIA dealer informed me the Niro Touring is not approved for towing/hitch, KIA offers no towing package, and will not support warranty for Niro being used for towing. You guys make it sound like a done deal. What's the official scoop?

Depends on the country. In the US, Kia officially doesn't support towing. In Europe, it's a different story, but again might differ by country. You'd have to check with dealers in the specific area of interest.

 

[yticolev]

In the US, a warranty issue would have to be proven to be caused by your modification to void coverage. Do what you like, but take heart that the Niro is approved in Europe for towing up to 750 kg trailers with brakes. That is the identical Niro to ours with respect to cooling systems and brakes. Original marketing from 2017 referred to a towing package (again in Europe, but that option has never been made available anywhere). Most just want a tow mount for a bicycle rack - can't even imagine what a warranty issue would come from that!