2023 Kia Niro: What we know so about the next-generation MG ZS EV, Toyota C-HR Hybrid and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV rival

They first-generation Kia Niro small SUV may have only arrived in Australia just five months ago with its ‘self-charging’ hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-electric (EV) powertrain options, but a second generation is set to quickly follow.

Not often does an all-new nameplate launch in a market to only have its next iteration enter the scene soon after, but that’s exactly what will happen with the Niro, which started its staggered international rollout not long after its reveal in February 2016.

Yep, Australia had to wait more than five years for the Niro to enter local showrooms, and when it did, we already knew the original version was on borrowed time due it be in the late stages of its current life cycle. So, what’s coming next and when?

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Same platform

The Niro’s existing platform is all but confirmed to carry over to the second-generation model, and there’s a very good reason why.

Once again, the Niro is expected to offer three eco-friendly powertrain options, which limits its architecture opportunities.

Australia had to wait more than five years for the first-generation Niro to enter local showrooms.

Given the Niro is presently available as an EV, a shift to Hyundai Group’s emerging E-GMP underpinnings would seem likely, but it’s dedicated to zero-emissions vehicles, meaning HEV and PHEV alternatives aren’t supported.

As such, the Niro is set to upgrade as much of its mechanicals as it can, but all signs point to the HEV and PHEV variants retaining their shared 1.6-litre petrol four-cylinder and six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with differing electric motor outputs and battery sizes.

Meanwhile, the EV is likely to retain its single front-mounted electric motor, but like the HEV and PHEV, its outputs could increase alongside its battery size for more range.

Design

By now, the new Niro has been spied testing overseas more than a few times – albeit while wearing various states of camouflage.

Point being, to no-one’s surprise, it closely follows the exterior design of the HabaNiro concept unveiled at the New York motor show in April 2019.

Needless to say, the upcoming Niro will instantly make its predecessor look dated when it makes its big debut, not to mention the rivalling MG ZS EV, Toyota C-HR Hybrid and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV.

The second-generation Niro’s most distinctive – and divisive – new design flourish is its contrasting C-pillar body panels.

After all, its bold look will help it to stand from the crowd, even in Kia’s model line-up, as it ditches the brand’s signature ‘tiger nose’ grille for a front fascia that better resembles a shark.

But perhaps the looming Niro’s most distinctive – and divisive – new design flourish is its contrasting C-pillar body panels – they’re certainly one way to draw attention.

Timing

So, when will the fresh Niro be revealed? Well, it won’t be long before the covers come off, although Kia hasn’t exactly said when yet.

That said, the brand has confirmed it will go on sale in Australia in the second half of next year, so expect it to bust out earlier in 2022. Stay tuned.