The Niro uses a dual clutch transmission (DCT) which is an automated manual not an automatic with a torque converter. This is done to improve efficiency. Torque converters are very smooth but waste power. The Niro DCT combined with the electric motor is a marriage made in heaven. Motors can start with Max torque from zero rpm and thus no clutch slipping is needed to start moving. You can creep along all day in EV mode with no damage to the clutches.
There are times when this motor DCT combination can be felt, just like one can usually feel a manual transmission shift. I view it as a feature not a flaw. I like the feel. However, if you think you want a torque converter in your transmission, don't buy the Niro.
You might be interested to know a little more about the motor DCT capabilities.
Given
Motor torque 125 ft lb 0-2500 rpm
DCT 1st gear final ratio, ~16:1, 6th gear ratio ~2:1
60mph tire rpm, ~800
starting torque at the wheels, ~2000 lb, (0 to 30 mph pretty good)
70mph 6th gear, motor ~2000 rpm, 250 ft lb at the wheels (250/3500=.07, 7% grade)
EV mode performance, not Tesla like, but capable.