The all-new 2017 Kia Niro is classified as a compact hybrid crossover SUV, though it really functions more like a hatchback. Your view of the road is marginally higher because of the Niro's elevated stance, but Kia doesn't offer the Niro with all-wheel drive, so don't expect to be a snow-busting trailblazer in bad weather. The Niro's core appeal comes from its traditional exterior design (no "hybrid!" shouting here) as well as a new powertrain that is capable of returning up to an EPA-estimated 50 mpg in combined city/highway driving.
Pros: Impressive fuel economy from the base trim model Six-speed transmission shifts like a conventional car's One of the more affordable hybrids in the segment Batteries are hidden under the rear seat and don't affect cargo space
Cons: All-wheel drive isn't offered despite the crossover styling Smaller cargo space compared to some rival models The Niro's Touring trim sacrifices some fuel efficiency
By calling it a crossover, the Korean brand also wants to get in the minds of the consumer wanting more utility. We all know crossover sales are booming, and part of their likeability is their higher ride height and boxy, useable interior space. But after spending a full day driving the Niro in Texas Hill Country, the question stuck in my head was whether it is really a crossover. The Niro is just 3.3 inches taller and has the same ground clearance as the Hyundai Ioniq, which it shares its platform with. And in terms of passenger volume, the Niro has only a small advantage, encasing 97.1 cubic feet versus the Ioniq’s 96.2 cubic feet. Although its two-box design might help its case for being a crossover, I suspect most will just see it as a lifted hatchback.
You shouldn’t have any nasty surprises, either. Kia was rated as above average in our most recent reliability survey and the Niro also gets a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty – a class-leading feature.
Pros: Low CO2 emissions Spacious interior Long warranty
Cons: More conventional rivals are cheaper Not much fun to drive Firm low speed ride
The BYD S6 was first introduced in 2010 at the Guangzhou Auto Show in China before hitting the Chinese market in 2011. The SUV enjoyed great sales success thanks to its popular design, interior features, and five-star C-NCAP crash-test rankings. Features like its TFT gauge cluster, onboard digital TV, smart key, and remote control made it a standout among the competition. While the S6’s design might not be the most beautiful in the world, it offers many the perks Chinese SUV buyers are looking for. Its familiar Mitsubishi- sourced engines give buyers a choice of three powerplants and three transmissions. Seating for five comes standard and the rear seats fold down, making room for more cargo.
BYD S6 is the first SUV model independently designed and manufactured by the China's Shenzhen-based battery, PV and auto maker, BYD Company Ltd..[1][2] BYD S6 was shown at the Guangzhou Auto Show in late 2010[1] and since May 6, 2011 when this model was first officially sold in Changsha, China, it has witnessed a vibrant growth in sales thanks to its attractive SUV exterior design and overall performance in electronic equipment and safety etc.[3][4] It became the best selling China domestic SUV in sales volume by reaching 15,000 units in December, 2011, being awarded as "Fastest Seller SUV"[2][5] and has been named China's "SUV of the Year" according to the Annual Ranking of Chinese Automobiles – the highest honor in the China Automotive Industry
