The 2018 Kia Niro Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid breathe new life into the hybrid segment, with a practical wagon shape and excellent interior you’d never know was a hybrid.
Pros Utility vehicle styling Good noise suppression Handsome, intuitive interior 40-mpg-plus fuel economy Plug-in version priced well
Cons AWD unavailable Sluggish acceleration at speed No crash-test data yet Plug-in range now only average
The 2018 Kia Niro ranked #5 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Kia Niro has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 14 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Magnificent fuel economy Spacious, comfortable seats Generous cargo capacity Upscale cabin
Cons Less athletic than rivals Not available with AWD High base price
The most significant change for the 2018 Niro is the addition of lane keeping assist, replacing the previous lane departure warning system. It's included in the Advanced Technology package available on LX and EX trims, and it's standard on the top Touring trim.
PROS Impressive fuel economy from the base trim model One of the more affordable hybrids in the segment Batteries are hidden under the rear seat and don't affect cargo space
CONS Feature-laden Touring trim sacrifices fuel efficiency Less cargo space than most rivals Feels lazy when driving in the default Eco mode All-wheel drive isn't offered despite crossover styling
The 2020 Kia Sportage ranked #5 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Kia Sportage has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 23 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Comfortable ride Composed handling Intuitive infotainment system Roomy cabin with handsome materials
Cons Below-average fuel economy estimates Less cargo room than rivals
The 2020 Kia Sportage is refreshed, stylish, and competitive as ever, though its fuel economy is poor.
Pros Distinctive looks Good ride, taut handling Optional turbo power High-quality interior Strong infotainment
Cons Too thirsty Polarizing styling Difficult outward vision Did we mention it's a guzzler?
The 2020 Kia Sportage comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Updated front and rear styling.New safety features, including adaptive cruise control.Standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Pros Smooth ride quality Spacious front and rear seating Attractive dashboard layout with appealing features Quiet interior at highway speeds
Cons Fuel economy isn't as good as mpg of some top rivals Relatively modest cargo capacity
For 2020, Kia tweaks the Sportage's already bold styling and adds more standard and optional features. While the exterior revisions aren't transformative, they give the Sportage a fresher and more assertive look than the previous year. Along with a new S trim level and different wheel designs, the interior receives some new content. Upgraded leatherette seats and wireless charging are now optional. Likewise, every cabin features an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability as well as an updated steering wheel and air-vent surrounds. The Sportage also adds more driver assists that include automatic high-beam headlights, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology, driver-attention warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist.
