About the Kia Niro Hybrid
History of the Kia Niro
The Kia Niro Hybrid was introduced in 2016 and the Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) followed in 2018 with the Kia Niro Battery EV. All are considered a compact crossover SUV.
The Niro Hybrid is based on the same platform as the Hyundai Ioniq while the Kia Niro BEV shares a powertrain and battery with the Hyundai Kona Electric
Kia Niro Drivetrain
Kia Niro Hybrid and PHEV Drivetrain
The Kia Niro Hybrid and PHEV both feature a 1.6L “Kappa II” gasoline direct-injection inline 4 cylinder engine.
The electric drivetrain consists of an AC synchronous permanent magnet motor (hybrid and PHEV).
The Kia Niro Hybrid and PHEV use a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, which differentiates it from most hybrids utilizing a CVT.
The battery is self-charged during braking and powers the vehicle during low speeds and cruising, depending on the power required.
Kia Niro Features
- Choice of seven colors and either
- 16 or 18 inch wheels
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Seven airbags standard
- Autonomous braking
- Smart cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Increased sound insulation
- Acoustic windshield glass
Kia Niro Battery Information
Kia Niro Hybrid Battery Specifications
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
| Battery Energy | 1.56kWh |
| Battery Voltage | 240V |
| Battery Capcity | 6.5 Ah |
| Battery Power | 42kW |
| Weight | 73lbs 33kg |
Kia Niro Hybrid Battery Location
The drive battery on the Kia Niro Hybrid can be found under the rear seat. Simply remove the lower portion of the seat to expose the battery for removal.
How much does a Kia Niro Hybrid replacement battery cost?
A typical replacement or remanufactured battery for the Kia Niro Hybrid and PHEV can cost upward of $5000. As time goes by, you may find multiple options available listed at a lower price point, but this is a safe number to expect when you factor in shipping and tax.
How long will a Kia Niro Hybrid battery last?
It is expected that a Kia Niro Hybrid, PHEV, and BEV battery lasts anywhere from 12-15 years. Kia offers a 10 year, 100,000 mile warranty, which should include the battery.
Kia Niro Hybrid Key Fob Battery
Kia uses a CR2032 battery in the key fobs for the Niro Hybrid.
Shop CR2032 key fob batteries on Amazon
Key Fob Battery Replacement Instructions
To change the key fob battery:
- Remove the valet key from the key fob
- Separate the key fob halves by inserting the key partially back into the slot and twisting and prying
- With the two halves apart, remove the old battery by pulling back on the tabs holding it in place.
- Reinstall the new battery in the same orientation
- Recombine the two halves and re-insert the valet key to complete the job.
What to expect when purchasing a replacement battery for your Kia Niro Hybrid
The process for purchasing a replacement battery for your hybrid can include a few surprises:
- Core Charges – A “core charge” is where a vendor charges you a fee as collateral until you send them the part that you are replacing, in this case the battery pack. It is not unusual to see a core charge be the same price as your used battery, typically around $1000-3000.
- Shipping Charges – Batteries are heavy! You can’t exactly toss one in the mailbox. Some vendors will include the cost of batteries in your purchase. Others may charge you anywhere from $100 to $300 to ship. You may also be assessed an additional charge to deliver to a residential address.
- Packaging – If you need to ship your battery to a vendor, you may want to consider the cost of packaging. Typically if you are returning a core, you can simply put your old battery in the same packaging that your replacement battery came in, and ship it back. Be extra careful when packing your battery as most vendors require a core battery to be able to be refurbished, and you may not receive back your core charge if the battery is damaged in transit.
Kia Niro Hybrid & PHEV Maintenance
Filters
Cabin Air Filter – It’s always a good thing to have fresh, clean air in the cabin. If your car is smelling musty inside, consider replacing the cabin air filter
2017-2019 Kia Niro Cabin Air Filters on Amazon
Join a Kia Niro Community
KiaNiroForum.com – A forum community dedicated to Kia Niro owners and enthusiasts. Join the discussion about performance, modifications, troubleshooting, reviews, maintenance, towing capacity, and more!
Facebook / Kia Niro EV Owners Club – A facebook group for current and future Kia Niro EV owners.