The all-new 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid was designed from the ground up to be a gas-electric hybrid rather than an adaptation of an existing model. Its attractive styling doesn't shout "hybrid" from the rooftops. The Niro's strength is that it offers crossover SUV-like utility and hybrid efficiency while meeting the needs of the many shoppers who simply need an affordable, practical around-town vehicle. For ease of entry, it sits lower than an SUV.

For better visibility, it's higher than a sedan. The Niro is, essentially, a wagon with better ground clearance and the ability to haul slightly taller cargo. It shares a platform with the new Hyundai Ioniq lineup — which is composed of hatchback hybrid, plug-in and electric models — but possesses a slightly muscular stance that marks it as a sleekly styled crossover.

The heart of the Niro's hybrid system is a 1.6-liter gasoline engine that pairs with a lightweight electric motor for a combined 139 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. And, unlike many hybrid powertrains that mate to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), Kia opted for a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which it says provides a more engaging driving experience.

An 11.4-gallon fuel tank and an 8.9-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery provide a total claimed range of up to 560 miles, or up to 26 miles on electric power alone. The EPA rates fuel economy for the Niro PHEV at 105 miles per gallon equivalent or a combined 46 mpg when under combustion power alone. The numbers are nearly identical to those for the Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid, though the Volt gets more than double the Niro PHEV's electric-only range.

The Niro has been designed to deliver an understated, conventional ride, and it accomplishes that mission admirably. The hybrid system is generally unobtrusive and delivers decent acceleration, although selecting Eco mode causes a noticeable reduction in zip. Conversely, shifting to Sport mode can pep things up a bit at the expense of a few mpg. And with its low center of gravity and well-balanced suspension system, the Niro handles well on the highway and in the city. Although set up for five passengers, the Niro is best able to transport four in comfort.

Though not exactly luxurious, the interior is well-designed with good-quality materials and solid-feeling controls. And even tall drivers will find the multi-adjustable seats easy to live with. Cargo capacity with the rear seats in place is 19.4 cubic feet, and with the seats folded that expands to 54.5 cubic feet. What that means is that the Niro can haul more than the average sedan but less than many competing small SUVs. The base Niro LX PHEV comes very well-equipped with such niceties as automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The midlevel EX trim adds more safety, comfort and convenience features. The top-of-the-line EX Premium model brings on more appearance and comfort features. Whatever your preference, let Edmunds help you find the 2018 Kia Niro that best meets your needs. What do people think of the 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid SUV,

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid SUV and all its trim types. 0 Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 Niro Plug-In Hybrid SUV.

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid SUV and all model years in our database. This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors. We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day.

We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life. What's a good price for a New 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid SUV, Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Rutland, ND. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.