With the Niro hybrid, Kia offers a thoughtful and budget-friendly option for a daily commuter. The hybrid SUV brings a practical drive with an efficient fuel economy for the city commute. A wide range of features and driver aids add more value to the car. Furthermore, the hybrid SUV offers a composed, reliable, and safe drive to the users. A few issues that the 2018 Kia Niro comes across include stalling and braking issues. However, the hybrid SUV does not register any major issues. Additionally, prompt services from Kia aftersales ensure resolving these issues swiftly. On paper, the 2018 Niro registers 19 user complaints and a single case of a recall. This affirms the reliability and safety standards on offer. The hybrid SUV contends with the likes of theToyota RAV4 Hybrid, the Ford Escape Hybrid, and theSubaru Crosstrek Hybrid. The Kia Niro ranks in the 9th spot on the CarHp list of top-10 subcompact SUVs of 2021. Here’s a detailed look at the car.
User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical Problems
- Powertrain - User complaints report instances of the stalling. The hybrid SUV suddenly loses drive power and speed under driving conditions. This increases the chances of a crash.
- Brakes - Users report multiple cases of braking failures. The SUV fails to brake by depressing the brake pedal ]. This compromises the safety of the user and vehicle. Braking issues increase the chances of a crash.
- Engine - Engine issues are common with the car. Users report multiple cases of engine stalling. This leads to a drop in speed and forces the car into ‘limp-mode’. An abrupt loss of speed under driving conditions increases the chances of a crash. The issue is majorly faced under low temperatures.
Electrical Problems
- Driver aids - Driver aid defects are common with the car. Users report instances of Auto emergency braking(AEB) malfunctions. An AEB malfunction results in the failure of braking to avoid a potential collision. This compromises the user safety and that of the vehicle, increasing the chances of a crash.
Structural Problems
- Tailgate - User complaints that the rear tailgate of the hybrid SUV is prone to unlatching and opening up. An opened tailgate under driving conditions increases the chances of crashing or injury to the occupants. The issue may also be a road hazard for fellow motorists.
- Body frame - Complaints report that the door handles of the hybrid SUV may separate and fall off. This prevents the opening and closing of the door. This also increases the risk of a road hazard for other motorists.
Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
September 25, 2018 |
18V666000 |
The electrical resistance at the main relay may cause an engine fire. |
Increased electrical resistance can overheat the rear seat which is above the PRA. This increases the risk of a fire. |
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) for damage. If no damage is found, the main relay will be replaced. If damage is found, the PRA will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on November 23, 2018. Kia's number for this recall is SC168. |
Should you buy the 2018 Kia Niro?
The Kia Niro is a modern-day hybrid solution for a practical, planet-friendly SUV. The hybrid SUV offers a composed drive that is best suited for the daily city commute. With a range of driver aids and tech features, the Kia Niro offers a convenient drive behind the wheel. Besides practicality, Kia puts its focus on reliability and efficiency with the Niro. The Kia Niro comes across a few issues, however, reports no major concerns for the users. Overall, considering the pricing and low overhead costs attached to the car, Niro is a solid deal. The hybrid SUV gets our go-ahead for the practicality, efficiency, and reliability it offers.
