Kia's Niro Hybrid beats global competitors in comparison test

SEOUL, July 9 (Yonhap) -- The Niro Hybrid, an eco-friendly sport utility vehicle (SUV) of Kia Corp., came out on top among competing global models in a comparison test conducted by Germany's leading automotive magazine, Auto Zeitung, the South Korean automaker said Wednesday.

The German magazine recently compared five popular hybrid SUVs -- Kia's Niro Hybrid, Peugeot's 2008 Hybrid, Volkswagen's T-Cross, Seat's Arona and Toyota's Yaris Cross Hybrid -- across five key categories, including body, driving comfort and driving dynamics.

The Niro Hybrid ranked first in driving comfort and driving dynamics, and second in body and powertrain, scoring a total of 2,926 points, the highest among the reviewed models. Peugeot's 2008 Hybrid and Volkswagen's T-Cross came second, both scoring 2,880 points.

The publication also highlighted the Niro Hybrid's exceptional fuel efficiency, recorded at 5.3 liters per 100 kilometers.

Auto Zeitung also praised the Niro Hybrid for offering interior space comparable to higher-class models, while its price point remains within the compact urban SUV category.

"This result reinforces the Niro Hybrid's strong global competitiveness," a Kia official said. "We will continue to strengthen our position as a leader in the global SUV market through high-quality products and cutting-edge technology."

odissy@yna.co.kr
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