Fresh infotainment system and dash layout for Kia Niro S Electric accounts for entire MY24 update
Kia Australia has quietly upped the pricing of its local Kia Niro range as part of a 2024 model year update for the small electrified SUV range, however, only one variant has undergone any sort of specification change.
The price increases range from $260-$1290 depending on the variant and mean the Kia Niro range now starts from $44,930 (+$550) plus on-road costs for the S Hybrid and tops out at $72,360 (+$260) for the flagship GT-Line Electric.
The Kia Niro Hybrid GT-Line is now also $550 pricier (from $50,580 plus ORCs), leaving the 2024 Kia Niro S Electric (now from $66,590 plus ORCs) as the variant with the biggest price increase, but buyers will at least get more for their money.
The main specification change revolves around the infotainment system, which has been upgraded from the familiar 8.0-inch unit to the bigger and more advanced 10.25-inch interface as seen on the GT-Line, meaning it now features the same dual-screen curved display as in other models.
More than just a screen upgrade, the S Electric’s new infotainment system brings with it in-built satellite-navigation, Kia Connect connectivity and AI voice control – hence the $1290 price increase.
No changes have been made to any of the remaining variants, for price increases for which a Kia Australia spokesperson attributed to elevated production and shipping costs.
The first MY24 Kia Niro vehicles have already started trickling into local distribution centres for release to dealers around the country, but it isn’t clear whether the orders they’ll be filling have been price-protected or if customers will need to front up the extra cash.
No changes have been made to either of the Niro’s drivetrains, meaning the 1.6-litre four-cylinder hybrid continues to hum out 104kW/265Nm and consume a claimed 4.0L/100km.
The battery-electric system meantime is still good for a respectable 150kW/395Nm and a claimed range of up to 460km.
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Keyword: New model year tweaks drive Kia Niro prices up