In this next part of reviewing and comparing the Niro Vs the Kona, I test the Kia Niro PHEV in full EV mode to gain an impression of what I might expect from the eNiro.
Please remember this is the UK spec which is a single trim version without some of the premium features.
In essense it is bigger all over. The Kona interior feels closer all round, surrounding you like a cockpit whereas the Niro is more spacious.
The seats are softer in the Niro but have less side support, noticeable when cornering.
The Niro interior is darker being jet black Vs the Kona's dark grey colour. There are greater number of contrasting materials and more use of softer materials and leather on the armrests in the Niro. At first sight it looks like a more luxury product but as I try the switches and stalks they're softer and slightly more flimsy. The Kona is a little less cluttered in its use of fewer materials and the switches and stalks feel more solid. It's a small difference but as you assess everything like the blue accents on the seats in the Niro, the design of the Niro is definitely busier than the Kona. The Kona has a better flow to its lines and use of materials. This is taste though and my taste isn't everyone else's.
I'd say the Kia interior is more Nissan Leaf like whereas the Kona is more like VW.
The JBL audio system was impressive. increasing volume , treble and bass to very high levels didn't distort the sound , instead the louder it was, the better it sounds.
The balance needed to be set quite far back in the rear to avoid the front speakers dominating the sound with treble and mid tones.
The Krell system by comparison needs less volume and less equaliser increases to gain best sound. The bass in the Krell system is the most impressive. The JBL lacks the punch of the Krell. Bass is not only rich and deep but crisp also.
The obvious difference is comfort. The Niro is softer sprung and rolls more in corners. The Kona feels tight and sporty. The Niro doesn't. The Niro will eat up long distances with ease and in comfort for sure.
Spec wise the eNiro seems like a Kona Premium (half SE).
The Niro's air vents, space, boot lid, centre console and CGC/PEC system are the things I wish my Kona had.
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Email: konaelectric.uk@gmail.com
Twitter: @EVPuzzle
