First drive: Kia Niro Prototype

Kia

Kia will be unveiling its rival to the Toyota Prius early next year with sales starting in 12 months. James Baggott bagged an early drive.

What is it?

The Niro is Kia's answer to the Toyota Prius, as if that was actually a question. It's designed to be a standalone hybrid SUV and is built on a completely unique platform. We were shipped out to Kia's highly secretive Korean R&D facility to drive the new car and although it's covered in camouflage here, we saw it undressed. Think of it as a cross between a squished Venga and a Sportage and you're pretty much there.