Kia confirms enlarged Niro Plus EV for NZ

Kia New Zealand has added a new variant to its stable of electrified Niros, in the form of the Niro Plus.

The Plus is larger than the standard Niro it shares a platform with. Based on the familiar first-generation Niro, it features 80mm of extra height and 80mm of extra length.

Most of these extra dimensions have been applied to the rear end, resulting in a boot capacity of almost 1500 litres when the second-row seats are folded flat. Kia also boasts that the model features improved cabin space.

Two Niro Plus variants have been confirmed for local sale; a hybrid and an EV. Each will be offered a single ‘light’ trim, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, 7-inch digital cluster, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a comprehensive safety suite as standard.

The Niro Plus hybrid is priced from $37,990, with the dedicated EV following at $64,990 (neither price includes on-road costs). The EV is a particularly compelling addition to the plug-in market, with the government’s Clean Car Discount effectively dropping its price to an impressive $56,365.

For reference, the second-generation Niro’s Light hybrid and Light EV variants are priced at $39,990 and $67,990 respectively.

Kia claims that the Niro Plus EV can travel 423km per charge, and can be charged from 10% capacity to 80% in 47 minutes while plugged into a 100kW DC charger.

Kia boasts that the number of vehicles in its line-up that are eligible for the Clean Car rebate has swelled to 27.

Kia New Zealand managing director Todd McDonald says that the Niro Plus represents the latest step in the brand’s ‘Plan S’ strategy; a strategy designed around reducing the emissions of Kia’s collective fleet.

“With the availability of Kia Niro Plus, it’s yet another compelling reason for many more Kiwis to consider low-and-no emission motoring and become part of the switch to Kia electrified vehicle solutions,” says McDonald.

“The new Niro Plus caters for the changing demands of modern consumers, all with the added appeal of a more accessible price point and dramatically increased cargo capacity and passenger space.

“It is an example of Kia operating as a leading Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider, delivering an innovative option for people who desire a more attainable entry into this new and exciting area of personal as well as business transport.”