Kia is refreshing the Niro for 2027 in the U.S. market, giving its compact crossover a cleaner design, a more modern cabin, and a stronger list of safety and tech features. But the biggest change is not what Kia added. It is what the company removed.
For 2027, the Niro will be offered only as a conventional hybrid, meaning the plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions are no longer part of the lineup.
Under the hood, the formula stays familiar. The 2027 Niro continues with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid setup paired with an electric motor and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Total output remains 139 horsepower, sent exclusively to the front wheels. All-wheel drive is still not available, which may limit its appeal for buyers who want an efficient small crossover with added traction.
Visually, the updated Niro moves closer to Kia’s latest design direction. The front end now wears a sharper, more upright look, highlighted by vertically styled headlights and slimmer lighting details inspired by Kia’s Star Map signature. At the rear, the crossover gains cleaner taillights and a smoother bumper design, while new colors such as Ivory Silver and Sunset Beige add a fresh touch to the palette.
The cabin gets one of the most meaningful upgrades. A new 12.3-inch touchscreen is now standard, and every trim includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 4.0-inch digital instrument display remains standard, while higher trims can be equipped with a larger 12.3-inch digital cluster. Kia has also redesigned the steering wheel and air vents, helping the interior feel more refined and up to date.
The tech list is stronger as well. Kia’s latest connected-car system brings over-the-air updates, Quick Controls, display-theme personalization, available streaming services, and an available voice assistant that responds to “Hey, Kia.” Depending on the trim, buyers can also add Highway Driving Assist 2, a 360-degree camera system, and Blind-Spot View Monitor.
Kia says it has retuned the suspension to improve comfort and has also worked on reducing cabin noise. Still, a few familiar drawbacks remain, including rear seats that do not fold completely flat when more cargo room is needed.
The 2027 Niro lineup will include LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Touring trims, with the S trim joining the range as a new addition. Pricing has not been announced yet, but sales are expected to begin this summer. Considering the 2026 Niro Hybrid started at $28,885, a modest price increase would not be surprising.
With the Soul now out of Kia’s lineup, the Niro has a more important role to play as the brand’s affordable, practical, and efficient small crossover. The refreshed model brings a cleaner look and better technology, but by dropping the plug-in hybrid and EV versions while still leaving out all-wheel drive, Kia is clearly positioning the Niro as a straightforward hybrid rather than a broader electrified family.
