Five Reasons That Make The KIA Niro A Great Taxi
Now in its second generation, the Kia Niro is an exceptional all-rounder combining hatchback and crossover styling with innovative technologies. It may also be your next new taxi! Here are five reasons why.
- The KIA Niro has been in production since 2016, launched as the brand’s take on the popular Hyundai IONIQ.
- Available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or 100% electric car, it offers drivers the ultimate flexibility when it comes to powertrains.
- Each offers remarkable efficiency and intelligent solutions to help make work easier. From practical storage to a spacious interior, the Kia Niro has all you need for an enjoyable journey for both you and your passengers.
Table of Contents
1. Efficiency of the KIA Niro hybrid, EV, and plug-in hybrid
2. Technology of the KIA Niro hybrid, EV, and plug-in hybrid
3. Price of the KIA Niro hybrid, EV, and plug-in hybrid
4. Space inside the KIA Niro hybrid, EV, and plug-in hybrid
5. Storage inside the KIA Niro hybrid, EV, and plug-in hybrid
6. Get your KIA Niro from The Taxi Centre
7. Frequently Asked Questions about the KIA Niro
Voted Car of The Year at the 2023 Carbuyer Awards, the KIA Niro is certainly living up to its name. It’s a versatile SUV combining compact proportions with high performance and smart technology.
It already served as the perfect family vehicle, and now it serves as the perfect taxi! In this article, we round up five things we love about the KIA Niro, which make it a great option for a taxi.
1. Efficiency of the KIA Niro hybrid, EV, and plug-in hybrid
If you’re looking for a taxi that will help you improve or cut your emissions completely as a taxi driver, the KIA Niro makes a fantastic choice. Depending on your driving preferences, you can choose from the Kia Niro EV, the Niro Hybrid, or the Niro Plug-in Hybrid.
The KIA Niro EV features a 64.8kWh lithium-ion battery and electric motor, which powers the wheels using solely electricity. This provides a range of up to 285 miles (WLTP), and with no CO2 coming from the exhaust it offers zero emissions.
Given the current expansion of Low Emission Zones (LEZs) across many major cities, the KIA Niro EV will make a great option if you’re tired of worrying about congestion zone charges.
When it comes to performance, you’ll also enjoy smoother driving with a one-speed automatic transmission. With up to 201bhp, it also doesn’t hold back on power.
Meanwhile, the KIA Niro hybrid and plug-in hybrids offer you greater flexibility if you prefer a traditional combustion engine. Both pair a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor (1.32kWh for the hybrid, and 11.1kWh for the plug-in hybrid) producing up to 139bhp and 180bhp respectively.
With a six-speed DCT automatic transmission, you still get to enjoy a smoother drive, while lowering your emissions.
How to decide between the three you ask? Get in touch with our friendly sales team who can help arrange a test drive.
2. Technology of the KIA Niro hybrid, EV, and plug-in hybrid
As a taxi driver, you’ll want to have the latest technology at your disposal. After all, your taxi is your mobile office!
With the KIA Niro 2, you get to enjoy a suite of driver assistance features as standard to make every drive safer and smoother. These include:
- Highway Drive Assist (HDA)
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
- Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC)
- Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist Rear (PCA-R)
- Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA)
Whether you’re cruising the motorway, navigating busy car parks, or manoeuvring into a tight drop off spot, the KIA Niro does the hard work for you.
As for infotainment, the KIA Niro has this area well-covered. With two 10.25” display screens, you can access essential driving information and infotainment features all in one place. You can also operate the climate control and navigation functions from here.
Want to stay informed on the go? Head-Up Display projects information including speed limits and lane positioning onto your windscreen.
With KIA Connect On-Board Services & Live Services, you can make every journey stress-free. From choosing the quickest route to accessing live traffic data, weather, and more, KIA Connect is there to make life easier.
Download the KIA Connect App and stay connected even when you’re not behind the wheel. The app allows you to plan journeys in advance, schedule charging sessions, and view your Niro’s location at all times.
Charge your devices on the go with a wireless smartphone charging pad at the front of the centre console, offering up to 15kW of power. If you prefer, you can also plug a cable into the USB charging port. These are also located throughout the cabin for all your passengers too!
3. Price of the KIA Niro hybrid, EV, and plug-in hybrid
Another great thing about the KIA Niro is that it’s surprisingly affordable given the advanced technology and powertrains on offer.
Affordability is an important factor when considering your next taxi, and the KIA Niro will make a great choice.
Plus, when you buy from The Taxi Centre, you get a fantastic deal! As a leading supplier of taxis in the UK, our strong nationwide relationships with top manufacturers allow us to offer models at the best prices!
So, how much does the KIA Niro cost?
For the hybrid model, prices start at £24,995, while prices for the plug-in hybrid will start at around £30,295, depending on the trim selected. If you’re looking to go electric, the KIA Niro 2 EV starts at around £35,995.
Looking to buy your KIA Niro on finance? At The Taxi Centre, we also offer a selection of finance options to help fit it into your budget.
With a Hire Purchase finance agreement, you can split the cost into monthly instalments according to your preferences. You can choose the amount of deposit and the length of your agreement, and since it’s a fixed rate your payments will remain the same.
At the end of the agreement, you can choose to pay the option to purchase fee and become the owner of the vehicle. Learn more about Hire Purchase (HP) on our finance explained page.
4. Space inside the KIA Niro hybrid, EV & plug-in hybrid
Despite its compact appearance, the KIA Niro offers plenty of space and storage inside, whichever model you choose.
Dimensions for each model are as follows:
| Model | Length | Width | Height | Boot space (rear seats folded) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Niro EV | 4,420mm | 1,825mm | 1,570mm | 475 litres (1,392 litres) |
| KIA Niro HEV | 4,420mm | 1,825mm | 1,545mm | 451 litres (1,445 litres) |
| KIA Niro PHEV | 4,420mm | 1,825mm | 1,545mm | 451 litres (1,445 litres) |
The KIA Niro is sure to keep your passengers comfortable with ample leg and headroom throughout the cabin. Passengers will be able to relax in the supportive, soft-touch seats made using recycled materials.
5. Storage inside the KIA Niro hybrid, EV & plug-in hybrid
When it comes to storage, the KIA Niro impresses once more.
All models also come with a variable height floor which can be lowered to increase loading volume if needed. The KIA Niro’s rear seats also offer a 60/40 split set-up, allowing you to maximise luggage space.
Unlike most models, the EV model offers up to 20 litres of extra luggage in the front compartment for storing any essentials.
Plus, with front and rear door storage and a vegan leather centre console box, there are plenty of other places to store items on the go.
Ready for a new world of motoring?
Whether you’re ready to enter into the world of electric driving, or want to make the change gradually, the KIA Niro range will help you get there - your way.
If you prefer the best of both worlds, why not explore the KIA Niro hybrid? We have some fantastic offers on right now for you to explore. Read our KIA Niro Hybrid review and see what it could offer you.
Frequently Asked Questions about the KIA Niro
What is the difference between the KIA Niro 2 and 3?
The KIA Niro 2 and 3 are both pretty similar in terms of storage, though there are some differences when it comes to design. For instance, the Niro 2 features cloth upholstery as standard whereas you’ll find vegan leather upholstery inside the KIA Niro 3. Both also offer different-sized wheels with 16” alloys for the Niro 2, and larger 18” alloys for the KIA Niro 3.
How is the ride quality of the KIA e-Niro?
With a softer suspension system unlike most other electric cars, the KIA e-Niro offers an undeniably smoother ride. Experience easier handling plus instant acceleration from the electric battery. With no noise from the engine, it’s also much quieter to drive offering a more relaxed driving experience.
Which is better, the KIA Sportage or the KIA Niro?
At the end of the day, both models certainly have their advantages. If you’re looking for something more spacious with a little more luxury, the Sportage may be a great option for you. As well as its larger proportions, it also offers leather upholstery and a power-adjustable passenger seat. However, if minimalist style and fuel efficiency are what you’re after, the KIA Niro may be more suited to you.
How long will a KIA Niro battery last?
Electric car batteries are currently predicted to last between 10-20 years – around the same time as a traditional petrol or diesel-powered car! But there are some things that can affect your battery capacity, such as different temperatures and how often you allow the battery to run low. Thankfully, there’s no need to worry about the unexpected - KIA offer a generous seven-year warranty on all hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric models.
What cars are suitable for taxis?
Ultimately, this depends on your preferences! At The Taxi Centre, we have a wide choice of new taxis for sale for you to explore, each with some fantastic features to help make work easier. With flexible storage options, comfortable interior spaces, and the latest technology, you’re sure to find something for you from the range. Not sure what it is you’re looking for? Get in touch with a member of our expert team, who will be able to help.