The 2026 Kia Niro has been announced and it starts at $28,445. For that money, you get a wealth of options, including the Drive Wise active safety suite, dual-zone automatic climate control, and smartphone connectivity. However, unlike some recently revealed Kias, the Niro still requires you to plug in to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Higher trims also swap the eight-inch touchscreen with a larger 10.25-inch unit. Every model includes a 4.3-inch gauge cluster display, while the SX and SX Touring include an eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.
Looking to max out comfort on the 2026 Kia Niro? Go for the SX or SX Touring. Those include heated and ventilated front seats, as well as a heated steering wheel. Don’t want to spend the money for the top-end trim? Don’t worry, the EX trim still offers plenty of value. It comes with wireless charging, a 10-way power driver’s seat, and ambient lighting. Pricing for the EX trim starts at $31,335, while the SX starts at $34,535. At the top of the lineup, the SX Touring starts at $36,935. That adds 18-inch alloy wheels, LED projector headlights, and sport pedals.
Every 2026 Niro features a hybrid system that pairs a 1.6-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor, a small lithium-ion battery, and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Total output is 139 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. Looking for the highest efficiency? Opt for the LX, EX, or SX, which have an EPA-estimated rating of 53/54/53 mpg city/highway/combined. The SX Touring has a lower EPA rating of 54/45/49 mpg due to its larger wheels. Those fuel economy figures put it on top of the subcompact SUV segment. However, unlike the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, which come standard with AWD, the Niro is FWD only.
Source: Kia
