2017 Kia Niro - First Drive Review
The starting point is a compact, low-friction dual-clutch six-speed automatic with hydraulically actuated dry multiplate clutches (001). Kia’s latest 1.6-liter Kappa engine, making 104 horsepower and 109 pound-feet of torque, is the other key component in this new setup. With a long-stroke design, separate cooling circuits for the head and block, a higher-rate exhaust-gas-recirculation system, and a 13.0:1 compression ratio, this Atkinson-cycle engine allegedly hits a lofty 40 percent thermal efficiency, rivaled only by Toyota’s efforts in the latest Prius (and now Camry hybrid) and by diesel engines.
A 1.6-kWh battery pack fits under the back seat, and a 43-hp AC synchronous electric motor/generator (002) mounts to the transmission’s input shaft. A third dry multiplate clutch (003) housed inside the motor/generator connects the combustion engine to the same shaft, allowing the engine to strategically add motive force. Through mind-bogglingly complex software maps and controls, the system coordinates when the engine decouples and whether the motor drives the wheels or acts as a generator.
Torque from the motor allows tall gearing and smooth, all-electric launches. The system is neatly packaged and improves the driver/car connection—though with real-world mileage yet to be proven and, perhaps, some drivability quirks yet to be addressed.
VIEW PHOTOS