Probably the most underrated channel on RU-vid. Stinks that the masses of 12 year old kids fueling the clickbait pandemic don’t value the production quality of your films. Love what you’re doing. Keep doing what you’re doing.
definetely under rated. the geese guy is not flashy, he doesnt look like a car salesman, and that is why i love this channel. chokeful of honest info. i love love love it.
I own a Kia Niro and absolutely love it. The size works perfect for me (coming from an Accord). I can toss my bike in the back and take it out to a park. It's very fuel efficient and handles great. My father was with me when I was car shopping and he ended up liking it just as much and bought one. I was quite impressed as I've not usually liked Kias in the past.
I am coming from a 2014 Honda Accord. Not sure I can adequately compare 2017 Niro vs 2017 Accord. For size, it is shorter than an Accord which I kinda like because my garage isn't huge so it fits better. I'm 6'2" (1.88 meters) tall and I can comfortably fit in the front and back. There doesn't seem to be quite as much rear legroom as an Accord but it was still enough for me. I drove the Niro for 7 hours on a trip and it was a very comfortable ride. Honestly, the biggest thing for me was the rear cargo. Being able to have so much storage in the back by folding the seats down is great. I can fit two bicycles back there easily enough. If I'm picking something up from the store or needing to haul around stuff, it's so much easier than the Accord. And gas mileage is just outstanding for the size of vehicle.
I think in real life it is taller than how it looks in the video. But the Niro is not particularly tall and even tapers down toward the back slightly (which I'm sure is for aerodynamics). The Niro has only about an inch more ground clearance than my Accord.
What's the technique (if any) to get the bike into the back? and is it a road bike (larger wheels) or mountain bike (smaller wheels)? Seems surprising, especially with what I assume is a larger framed bike given your height.
Just bought the 2017 Kia Niro EX model on the 28th, and ive drove it all day yesterday. Truly a remarkable car!!!! Im getting 41mpg and it only takes like $25 to fill up.
I don't always agree with you but I do wish that all of these youtube reviewers took some notes on your approach. Everyone else looks the same, gets the same shots and says the same things. I don't give a flying crap about the Kia Niro to be honest but I watched the whole thing because you do great work.
Zector 45 same here, would have never looked at this now my wife is super interested because of the insane CUV MPG. ~600 miles per tank is an awesome commuter car.
I think it’s because he is pretty smart, and knows good collective knowledge. Not just some dude that reads what’s the latest shit show and makes opinion based on whatever other people say. He has his own opinion. He actually thinks. Unlike other motorists.... One of the main reason why I still enjoy the idiotic 3, Hammond, may and Clarkson. They have original opinions which made me rethink what the car world really is
I love you man. You're the only car reviewer with the guts to say the things that other reviewers don't. The only one that does real car reviews and doesn't just robotically narrate a press release and make the exact same video you can see on all the other car channels. The only one that says the truth about some of these electronics gimmicks. The only one that looks at the underside of a car and considers long-term maintenance. I love everything about this channel. Can't wait for the next video.
Protector of the Republic: "You're the only car reviewer with the guts to say the things that other reviewers don't." I do appreciate his knowledge and insights BUT he's NOT the only qualified reviewer out there. Take a look at "Alex on Autos" for someone who dives into all the specifics about each vehicle and also demonstrates how each vehicle stacks up to the competition. Each review is over 30 minutes long and can be of great assistance in formulating purchasing decisions. I DO agree that MOST supposed reviewers are just presenting so much "Fluff". My wife and I purchased a Kia Niro Touring and absolutely love it. In the first 5800 kilometers, we've actually exceeded it's fuel economy ratings by over 15%!
Drives like a regular SUV yet makes almost 50mpg. What's not to like. Sounds like a great daily driver that 98% of the population need. They were hard to find last time I looked.
I got one recently 2019 ex premium package. Love it and the MPG 53 🤑🤑🤑. But I also have an Acura MDX and can assure the Niro doesn't drive like an SUV lol but its a good drive nonetheless 🚙👍
I have the LX model and I get 53mpg average after 5 months of ownership. It has blown my mind to just how amazing this car is. I loved your video showing the underside of the car. Fantastic.
Friend has this vehicle. And seriously... You cannot beat the MPG. And the cabin is comfortable for trips. If you just need a commuter and do not desire much more.. Or have a second car as a weekend toy. This cannot be beat
We are in 2023 now... i can say that the car is still good! No technicall problens at all... yeaterday, arriving home after 120 km driven through mountains, the medium consumption was 3.6 l /100 km. That is lower than the produceres published :)
I bought a used 2017 Niro EX hybrid last year. I still love it. I drive faster than most people and it still gives me 40+mpg. I drove it on ice and snow and the handling was still superb for a FWD. It's comfortable, practical (I can take my doberman anywhere with ease), quiet and even looks good. The only thing I'd improve as you mentioned would be having optional AWD and increase ground clearance. Other than that, no notes. It's a 9/10 car even for people who enjoy driving. One thing I'd like to add is it doesn't have hill decent control, but the 1st gear works great because it uses the EV to brake and mantains the car at a decently low speed.
I am leasing this (the Ex), and I love it! I had the 2012 Soul and had to refuel every 4 days (I drive 70 miles per day for work). With the Niro, I get twice the amount of miles to the tank. It is smooth to drive, and has some really nice features. I wanted a cross over that was fuel efficient and I am NOT disappointed. I was the third person in my state to get into the 2017 Niro, and I don't see many (actually, I haven't seen any others) on the road. I feel special driving it lol
theModernGypsy I've had this for a year now. I am on the highway daily. I have a lead foot. Honestly, I've gone 90 and it's still great. It is such a smooth ride. It can pick up speed like a normal engine vehicle. The mileage is best on the highway. I'm averaging about 42+ mpg on a work day. Again, I drive about 35 miles to work, so it's a pretty straight shot at a good speed :) A year later and I still love driving this.
Dianna Calimlim That's excellent to know! I could be driving anywhere from 20 to 200 on any given day... I've driven 3,000 miles this past month alone. I usually set the cruise, and let 'er rip... 😉
Dianna Calimlim I travel around to inspect vehicles being returned off of lease at either dealerships, businesses or homes. I also travel around to audit dealerships to see if they comply with manufacturer standards in their Certified Pre Owned programs.
Now this is what I call a review! I've seen hundreds of car reviews here on RU-vid but not one of them formative as this one and entertaining. Your music soundtrack that comes in and out every now and then adds a nice touch it's like watching a movie
Isn't it funny how a non powered lift gate is a "nice feature". Feels like we go 2 steps forward and 1 step back incorporating as much as we can in these cars. Keep things simple were they can, one less headache for the buyer.
There's definitely a disconnect between manufactures/industry and the buyers, in any industry. I remember a video gaming RU-vidr talking about how one problem is that critics and hardcore gamers always want dramatically improved and original stuff. While most video game buyers aren't that into it and are perfectly fine with mildly refreshed stuff. So they don't have a problem waiting a long time for the "next big thing."
Ya like every car now has to have a panoramic sunroof ., they leak , they rattle, they are cold or hot and they explode but they are on so many cars in Canada specially VW/Audi.
Great review :) It tipped the scale on my buying decision - I've did get one Niro HEV :) I though You were exaggerating about the AC controls not showing temps on the dials, and few months ago my infotainment screen just blacked out and I had this exact problem (along with missing rear view camera view). Eerie premonition vibes :D After few hours and couple of start-stop cycles the issue went away. The dealer said the problem was that the system was not clearing up its memory, and it was fixed in the newer software version - which BTW gets OTA updates which is nice :) I've been driving mine for more than a year and the comfort is superb, the economy is a bit below the equivalent Toyota CHR Hybrid, but still great :) Not a racing car by any means, but all the tech in the top version is astounding - adaptive cruise control is a real luxury on the highway and in slow traffic, and AEB saved me at least 2 times. It's a 9/10 for me, would recommend :)
I have 2019 Niro Touring. Averaging around 50 MPG summer and 45 in winter. This is not a small CUV, it is either a small wagon or hatchback. I would not take it offroad. Gravel has been the most challenging "off road". Love the car. I see older (2017-2018) Niro's with 40 to 80 K miles that are selling about what I paid for it in 2019. Go figure.
I just ordered a 2018 Niro Touring and am expecting delivery soon. I'm really excited about it. Your review was helpful in my decision making. It's nice to hear the positives and negatives, rather than just someone giving the manufacturer's advertising points. As far as it being a "crossover", I'd call it a wagon, personally. I know that has a negative connotation these days, but it's perfect for my needs. Bigger than a hatchback car, but smaller than a true crossover SUV. And I live in Florida, so I don't really care about all wheel drive, and gladly give it up for better efficiency and affordability. Thanks for giving good, honest info.
I have seen 30+ videos about this car, but you bring something new. Great job, and a really great video. One thing I don´t understand though, is the focus on awd in the US. Why is that so important ? (I´m from Denmark, and we don´t have alot of AWD, coz there is no need)
They don't need it, they just think they do. Old ladies drove around snowy Detroit and Buffalo for decades in RWD sedans with snow tires- no problems. I think AWD is another Milennial pacifier..
I wonder about this myself. Just up north from you, in Norway, most people have front/rear wheel drive also. I'm getting the phev version, but have no worries using this in the winter .. except for that it does not come with a climate heat pump, so the ICE engine has to run (source: www.mestmotor.se/recharge/artiklar/nyheter/20171025/hyundai-och-kia-har-sparat-in-pa-en-viktig-detalj-i-nya-laddhybriderna-det-straffar-sig-i-svenskt-klimat/)
It's just one of those things that Americans have bought into. Just like Iam Ian said. Americans all think they need AWD/4WD because their neighbor has it.
Svik, what are the points that you like about the Niro? AWD is just a way to make more money for the automobile industry , most people dont need AWD where they live.
I am getting a Niro PHEV. Reason is coz it´s ability to drive on pure electric for a decent range, size, quality and equipment compared to the prize, warranty and fuel economy. In my country, the Niro plugin and normal hybrid costs the same, due taxation.
Yeah - the Niro seems awesome to me for those reasons. Normalcy. No hybrid weirdness. Plus good pricing, great MPG and great features and options available.
i like seeing turbowski in your videos and miss him, but at the same time i feel like your videos with you alone also make it look more professional than it already was, and i think i might like it even more. :D
You're so correct about the once small SUV are getting big. CR-V, Rav4, Rogue/Pathfinder etc. Nice to see a single-man/woman's Normal hybrid. Great Review.
If I were in the market for a dedicated hybrid vehicle right now, this would be it. Seriously. Kia definitely got a lot right with this, and as a small family hauler or efficient commuter, this really nailed it.
This is a great review.. normalcy.. exactly what I need out of a vehicle. My sportage is a 2007 and I have really been eyeing the Kia Niro and the Hyundai Kona. I need a vehicle without an enormous amount of crazy futuristic flash, just something simple, reliable, dependable. My sportage has 160k km on it and it still drives like a brand new car - only 2 recalls during its life, a very simple re-wire in the tail lights and some preventative wax injection in the b pillar for rust protection. Kia/Hyundais build quality is superb.
If you're buying a used kia niro, I highly recommend buying a certified pre owned. It will give you peace of mind especially after you said that it's gonna be pricey to fix down the road.
Beat review!!!! I like this video because it not so long hits alllll the points. Even had time to go under the car no one else does that. You make the best video thank you sooooo much in helping me make my second largest purchase in my life. I really appreciate YOU 😉 Aloha from Hawaii 🌺
Exactly what I wanted. Other Kiyundai SUVs are getting bigger every year, I've always wanted a Forester/Allroad type of a vehicle without 4WD which is not required for city/highway driving in a warm climate. I have no real need for the ground clearance but I do want the space and body type (Sedans suck).
Thanks for a great review. That slight extra ground clearance makes a huge difference compared to lower hatch backs in places with long winter season in my experience. I certainly feel more relaxed going over bumps and small blocks of ice with my Niro than the slightly sporty hatch back I owned before. Also I immediately noticed I didn’t get blinded from ongoing traffic sitting higher. It’s a well made car. The only issue is that the PHEV system in my model doesn’t have electric assisted heating of the cabin for short commutes in winter, but that’s a non issue for the hybrid model and hybrid mode driving (with the PHEV).
This car is so common in the Netherlands, the deal is amazing. Especially given the tax incentives for "cleaner" cars. But still...the kia badge throws many people off
I used to work for Kia's parent company, Hyundai, as a mechanic... Between Kia and Hyundai both, I did not see the issues with these cars, as I've seen with other manufacturers... Operational maintenance and minor warranty work, that's pretty much all I did, and it was a "high volume" shop. I've owned an Optima, now a Sonata... the Niro is next... ;-)
THANK you with the comment about suspension!! It always bothered me SO much they were using rear beams WELL into the 10s... And my 1988 FORD ESCORT I learned to drive on had IRS almost identical to the one on THIS 2017 Kia... They really are getting their shit together, every couple years they keep surprising me!
I was looking hard at the Niro and its sister car, the Ioniq. I really thought that one of the two was going to be it--till I test drove them. They redefine the word gutless. I just had no idea anyone would put a car out there for sale that was so slow. I pulled out into traffic with the Ioniq and kept pressing the gas pedal further and further and still could not get that car to go. Got great gas mileage on the test drives but nope.
Very interested in this car or the Ioniq hybrid, but one thing bothers me (not sure if you or your mechanic covered this): It uses a component called the HSG (hybrid starter generator). This uses its own HSG belt. No problem with this on its own, it's just that owners must be mindful that the belt much be changed as part of maintenance at something like 30000 or 60000 miles (not covered by warranty). If this belt breaks, it's bad news (I guess any belt breaking is not good news). Before buying one of these, I was wondering how much this HSG Belt replacement would cost, esp if you have to do it every 30000 miles under 'severe' conditions. From 8:57 until 9:03 on the vid, you can see the HSG unit (to the right of that black spring) and the HSG belt (below the black spring). Any thoughs / worries about this additional expense and additional maintenance item / point-of-failrue?
I like automatic parking brakes along with digital drive selectors, because they can set automatically. There's no need to shift to park and set the parking brake when the car can do it for you after shutting it off. It makes for a more user friendly experience.
Great review. This is the only affordable hybrid that lets me tow my medium sized campingtrailer (up to 2800lbs). A nobrainer if you go camping often and want to give up driving diesels, which are expensive on roadtax and more expensive on gas in my part of the world.
@@MagnumPI4 yup they are known to fail that sucks man i used to love cadillac but they simply skimp way too much on quality and i really loved the ats it looks amazing but its nightmare to own
I'm surprised I didn't come across your channel way before this. I don't really give a flying goose about a Kia Niro, but I seriously love how incredibly high quality your production is. Love the fresh new approach to car videos on RU-vid.
Other Hybrids, especially the Prius, say “look at me, I think I’m saving the world, I’m better than you, I am above the law.” That’s why I’m buying a Niro. It looks like a normal car, everyone that I’ve shown the car to think that this a normal car that has a hybrid version. Also the size, I hate crossovers, but this reminds me of a wagon which I love
I agree, just seeing a Prius loads me up with negative bias towards the driver (my own prejudices I admit, but sometimes the stereotype happens to fit). I want a vehicle with great fuel efficiency, but I actually feel nausea at the thought of getting a Prius, it's tremendously ugly and I can't stand the thought that someone might mistake me for a commie scumbag just because I happen to be driving one of those things. Thank goodness there are starting to be a few choices for normal-looking vehicles that are also hybrids like the Niro, the 2019 Insight, and the 2020 Corolla hybrid.
I don't know if such an old review is still on your radar savagegeese, but I first wanted to repeat what probably many others have noted: your reviews are astounding. As for this Niro, it only matters now if considering a used one. Even though not slated for production-end until July, with shortages they seem to already have disappeared. I currently drive a car you couldn't have compared this with at the time: a 2020 Soul. Most reviews I've seen for the Niro find the handling and noise both a weakness, which are considered strengths in the Soul. Can you comment on a comparison of the new gen Soul with this outgoing Niro? I generally prefer to buy 1 year old CPO, saving about 25% over new (in addition to crazy add-ons now becoming routine) and definitely don't like a couple things about the 2023 Niro Hybrid as I've seen so far.
Good review very well thought out, the car is what it is a well built hybrid with efficiency and I love mine, it has to be the best car I've ever owned.
The quality of the car is of a very high grade and to get a car of equal standard you would have to pay a lot more, the standard equipment in my car is above most cars in its price bracket, as for been Luxurious its not far of the pace, the electric motor and the petrol engine work hand in hand, you cannot tell when its in one or the other modes, for me and the price I paid I'm very happy but if that's not for you then by a Mercedes or an Audi and even then you will probably not get all the standard equipment that you get my Kia Niro First Addiction to me its perfect.
I looked at the Mazda 3 but the dash board was plain and to me my wife drives a Toyota Aygo and there was little difference between the two dashboards, and it's not as good looking as the Kia, but that's just my opinion, it has heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel maybe not good if you live in a hot climate ok for me we live in the cold north of the UK, it also has wireless charging, blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning, and something you would expect in a more expensive car autonomous breaking system, but you need to take them both for a good long test run to pick the car you want, I hope you like the kia.
Hey doesn't the Kia have a "lifetime" battery warranty? Also I believe the electric motor gets the rolling before engaging the clutch to the engine minimizing the worst wear on DCTs creeping.
I have a 2018 Niro Graphite Touring Edition. I bought it brand new in November 2018 and it had 100 miles on it. It just turned over 10K miles. While not fast, it is pretty quick. They quote 195 LB-FT of torque but I think that's wrong. I think the ICE delivers 190 Lb-Ft of torque and the electric motor has something like 125 Lb-Ft of torque. I firmly believe the combined torque is much higher than 195 Lb-Ft. In sport mode, it will spin the 225/45-18 91V tires with traction control off. I think the combined torque might be somewhere near 300 Lb-Ft. Like I said, it's not really fast but it's pretty quick. It really performs from rolling at 30mph and if rolling at 60 mph, kicking it over to sport mode, the electric motor will kick in and have me approaching 100mph in less than 20 seconds without pushing down on the accelerator. I see 44mpg driving from Port Richey, FL to Tampa (32 miles) and back with 15 miles being 70-80mph on the toll road. If I keep the speed to 60-70mph on the toll road, I see about 48mpg. My other car is a 2006 Lincoln LS V8 which will do over 155mph but can only get 25mpg when driving sensibly. photos.app.goo.gl/E1dt8gSK3Qyzorud8
If you look under the hood... changing the spark plugs ...checking the oil stick... adding coolant adding wiper fluid... changing the 12v battery.... the spare tire... the tire jack?.....where to jump start the car … should be in the owner's manual...
Good review...the only major issue w/the Niro is the platform/segment overlapping from its showroom mates...I'm glad KIA is giving the consumer lots of choices, but it will be at the expense of another car's success...it won't do 100k units like the Soul but it will steal sales from other KIAs...I like "normal" tech, just wish it were more wagon-like
A Dream well great, someone needs to not be a bully to the poor, and want to give them a boost. I mean 50mpg speeding, little body roll , lots of room, great warranty and a proper reg. Trans. I love cars, but hate gas stations and how much you can spend. People do it like its a requirement to drive and either brag about and or complain but try to bust on mpg cars price tag, or brand or size...for what,...ego. Sure I'll want a hybrid explorer that gets 50 mpgs...or even better a S class. I enjoy driving but a lot of people don't get it. I'm for the share a car economy because 8 pass. SUVs have 1 or 2 people in it 99% of the time. Commuters don't need the extra space or speed. If we had better drivers who know that cars are advanced enough to take their fears and out them on the Tarmac and put the phone down and drive...hybrids kind of train you to breathe better...without worrying about gas and money.
Thanks for your great reviews.I'm looking forward to your opinion on the Kia Stinger. I drive an I30,2000,170k and might need another car in the next few years.
