Talking Cars 384: Driving the Kia Niro Hybrid

Jen Stockburger
·2 min read

Plus, we discuss the impact of not using a dealership for maintenance

By Jen Stockburger

Main theme: This week we share our first impressions of the 2023 Kia Niro Hybrid. The Niro has improvements in efficiency and space but isn’t a true redesign. We discuss whether the tweaks have made the hybrid version we purchased a better car overall and if similar improvements to the plug-in hybrid and electric versions will likely do the same. In particular, we focus on how the Niro balances fuel economy and power. We also discuss whether it feels more like a tall wagon or small SUV and if it represents the value many Kia’s are known for.

Audience question: Are there risks associated with not using a dealership for maintenance?

"Talking cars" panelists Emily Thomas, Jen Stockburger, and Alex Knizek.

Photo: Consumer Reports

As with other "Talking Cars" episodes, this one is available free through Apple Podcasts. (Subscribe to the audio or video.) You’ll also find the audio on Spotify (log-in required) and video on YouTube.

Have a Question?

We’d love to include it in a future show. Upload your video questions to our Dropbox folder. Please send high-definition (1920x1080) MP4 video files with high-quality audio. Or send an iMessage question to our TalkingCars@icloud.com account.



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