Long-term test review: Kia Niro - pictures

The Niro is Kia's first attempt at a hybrid, so it is not without its flaws. 

The exterior styling is more reserved than some of the <a href="https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/best-cars/86211/best-hybrid-cars-sale">hybrid</a> bunch, for example the <a href="https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/toyota">Toyota</a> <a href="h

The pricing of the Niro means it goes into direct competition with the Toyota Auris hybrid and trail blazing Prius.

The petrol engine is 1.6-litres and produces 139bhp.&nbsp;

Inside the cabin is doesn't over face you with a dash made from recycled shoelaces to ram home its eco-credentials, it instead, opts for a low-key approach to the interior.

Prices for the Niro start at just under £21,500 and raise to around £27,000 for top of the line models.

This is the Kia Niro, a<span>&nbsp;petrol-electric hybrid.</span>

As standard you are treated to generous levels of kit. It includes, cruise control, multifunction steering wheel and electric windows.

One area the Niro struggles is boot aperture – an exciting topic in general. Joking aside, having as large a boot opening as possible is very useful, but unfortunately the Niro's is less than that of the Prius.&nbsp;

If you have a heavy right foot and a stopwatch, you will see the South Korean SUV reach 60mph in 9.2seconds.