[DeNiro]

Kia Motors Netherlands has uploaded a walk-around of the new Kia Niro but it's not in English so you'll have to rely on the translated closed captions.

Even though I don't understand most of what he's saying, it's still interesting to watch and he takes a shot of the infotainment screen when the car is in motion. I think both the battery and the engine was moving the front wheels if the energy flow is any indication.

 

[Alex]

That rear cargo area looks like it can fit a lot, making it great for road trips, can't imagine the average family of 4 needing anything more. Typically I see CR-V's and the like on road trips and this falls right into that segment. The only extra some might need is a roof top rack for a top box or bikes, or a rear rack for bikes.

 

[DeNiro]

Apparently, the niro has great suspension and handling which helps with the vehicle's cornering.

The rear cargo is spacious enough and if you take off the cover, you can probably stack a bit more without blocking your rear view.

 

[Alex]

Apparently, the niro has great suspension and handling which helps with the vehicle's cornering.

The rear cargo is spacious enough and if you take off the cover, you can probably stack a bit more without blocking your rear view.

That might be something that helps them pull in those who have been initially interested in Mazda but open to other brands. But the current CX-3 is sort of hard not to consider. But there will be that group of people that might find the Niro more practical. All the practicality someone wants, with the sportiness they desire = ultimate package.

 

[DeNiro]

We'll just have to wait for a few English reviews but I think the Niro may out perform the CX-3, at least when it comes to acceleration thanks to its electric motor.

 

[Neuron]

Hybrids should have a lot more torque and a little more horsepower than their pure gas counterparts. Kind of hard to compare the Niro to the CX-3 since the Mazda is all gas and not a hybrid.

 

[DeNiro]

What I'm also curious about is the Niro's suspension. Their ad has the Niro going off road onto uneven trails with rocks. Will the passengers feel everything or will the Niro give us a relatively smooth ride.

 

[Neuron]

Niro's fully-independent multi-link rear suspension with dual lower arms means each wheel is able to absorb bumps and shocks independently. So I guess the bumps will be isolated for a less bumpy ride when off road.