2019 Kia Niro blue side view

Kia Niro changes for 2019

What’s new for the 2019 Kia Niro?

Do you love the look of the Kia Niro? Are you excited at the prospect of parking a sleek hybrid in your drive? Then you may want to know what’s new for the 2019 Kia Niro. We can fill you in on all the changes and updates for the new model year.

2019 Kia Niro red side viewAre there major changes for the new Niro?

The Kia Niro first debuted as a 2018 model, and many already agree that Kia really hit the mark with this one. By building a hybrid model fresh and from the ground up, they were able to provide an impressive machine right out the gate. With this new approach, Kia didn’t have much to refine for the sophomore year of this model. There are a few changes which we will cover below.

Minor improvements to the 2019 Kia Niro

Some colors are shifting around for 2019 with Runway Red replacing Crimson Red and a few other colors going away entirely to simplify the lineup. Also, Niro models with navigation are getting an upgrade from the AVN 4.0 system to the snappier AVN 5.0 system.


Towing capacity for 2019 Kia SUVs


2019 Kia Niro cargo roomNew trim level for the Kia Niro

For 2018, the Niro lineup had four trim levels, but for 2019 it has five. The lineup still starts with the FE, LX, and EX, and the top trim is still the Touring, but now you have a new S Touring trim above the EX. It is a little counter-intuitive to have the S Touring trim below the Touring trim, but we assure you that’s correct both in terms of price and features.

The S Touring trim isn’t actually a whole new trim either. In 2018 you could get the EX trim with a special package known as the Graphite Edition. That package is going away only in name because the S Touring is actually just the EX with the Graphite Edition package.

Read More: What’s unique for the 2019 Kia Soul?

2019 Kia Niro EV black side viewIs there an all-electric version of the Kia Niro coming?

The plug-in hybrid version of the Niro debuted with a 2018 model and is now available as a 2019 model, so it would only stand to reason that an all-electric version of this already popular compact crossover should be just around the corner. You would be correct. Currently, the all-electric or EV version is set to be available in late 2018 as a 2019 model.

The Niro EV promises to deliver 201 horsepower, 291 pound-feet of torque, and, with its state-of-the-art battery, it is targeting a max range of 240 miles. On top of all that, it will have the same wonderful style that the Niro is already known for.

Read More: What’s new for the 2019 Kia Sportage?