2026 Kia Niro Launch: Major Design Updates and a Fully Digitalized Dashboard
Kia Niro gets a facelift in 2026: EV-inspired design and cutting-edge interior technology
Initially launched in 2022, the second-generation Kia Niro has reached maturity. The South Korean manufacturer has officially presented the first images of the facelift version for 2026, paving the way for an update that aligns the crossover with the brand's new aesthetic language, while maintaining the versatility that has established it.
Here is an analysis of the new features brought by the Kia Niro facelift 2026 and the context of this model on the Romanian market.
Exterior Design: Evolution under the sign of "Opposites United"
The new Niro 2026 takes visual elements from its older brothers, the EV6 and EV9. The most visible changes are at the front:
- Redesigned headlights: These have become more compact and have a more aggressive LED light signature.
- “Tiger Face” grille: It has been styled to be sharper, giving the car a wider and sportier presence on the road.
- Premium details: The silver stripe on the hood has been dropped in favor of a cleaner look, and the fender flares now have a Glossy Black finish, replacing the matte plastic on the previous model.
At the rear, the changes are subtle but effective: the bumper has been restyled to improve aerodynamics, and the vertical taillights have received a smoother inner graphic.
Interior: 12.3-inch technology
The cabin has taken a major technological leap. The centerpiece is the new curved panoramic screen, which integrates two 12.3-inch displays under the same glass surface: one for the instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment system.
Other changes include:
- Center console: Elimination of the “Piano Black” finishes (prone to fingerprints and scratches) and their replacement with much more practical matte gray materials.
- Steering wheel: A new, slightly flattened shape that offers a better grip and a modern look.
Kia Niro on the Romanian market: Prices and Sales
In Romania, the Niro has positioned itself as a pragmatic alternative for those who want electrification without going straight to a large model like the Sportage.
1. Estimated prices
Although official prices for the 2026 facelift will be announced in the spring, we can refer to current values to estimate the starting thresholds:
- Niro HEV (Hybrid): Approximately €33,000 – €35,000.
- Niro PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid): Approximately €38,000 – €42,000.
- Niro EV (Electric): Can exceed €48,000, often purchased through government programs (Rabla Plus).
2. Sales situation
In Romania, Kia has recorded steady growth, and the Niro plays a key role in the brand's electrification strategy. The model is especially appreciated in urban areas for its low consumption (under 4 l/100 km for the hybrid version) and for the 7-year or 150,000 km warranty, which offers increased peace of mind to Romanian buyers.
3. Competition in the segment
The new Niro facelift 2026 must face an extremely crowded segment in Romania:
- Toyota C-HR & Yaris Cross: The main rivals in the classic hybrid (HEV) area.
- Hyundai Kona: The technological "cousin", which offers similar engine options.
- Renault Captur E-Tech: A strong European alternative in the PHEV and Full Hybrid segment.
What's next?
All technical details regarding the engines will be revealed in March 2026. While the 1.6-liter units (for hybrids) and 64.8 kWh battery (for EVs) are expected to remain at the base, software optimizations for increased efficiency and slightly improved electric range are likely.