Used Kia Niro for sale nearDarlington

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 800
Average Price: Around £18,000

Kia Niro (2016-2022) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Roomy for passengers	Small boot on PHEV
Low running costs	Dull to drive
PHEV or standard hybrid options	Lacks polish of e-Niro

Quick Summary

The Kia Niro (2016-2022) is a compact SUV that pioneered the concept of offering only electrified powertrains, with no conventional petrol or diesel options. Available as a self-charging hybrid, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), or a full-electric model, the Niro provides flexibility for different driving needs. The hybrid version produces 139bhp and delivers genuine fuel economy around 45mpg on motorways and better in town driving. The PHEV offers up to 30 miles of pure electric range when charged, making it ideal for low-mileage commuters, though real-world fuel economy depends heavily on charging habits.

The Niro offers reasonable interior space for four adults, though the middle rear seat is tight. Boot space is acceptable at 373 litres for the hybrid, though the PHEV's larger battery reduces this to 324 litres. Build quality is solid, and the touchscreen infotainment is responsive and intuitive. However, the driving experience is uninspiring—both versions are heavy and lack agility, with light steering that provides minimal feedback. Running costs are impressively low, with insurance groups ranging from 11 to 15, and servicing every 10,000 miles at reasonable Kia prices. The seven-year warranty and excellent reliability reputation make it an attractive proposition for used buyers seeking practicality and low-cost motoring.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical SUV with low running costs, those considering a plug-in hybrid for short commutes, and drivers prioritising reliability and warranty coverage.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking engaging driving dynamics, buyers wanting maximum boot space, or those preferring the premium feel and styling of rivals like the Peugeot 3008.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Niro if: You're seeking a practical SUV with low running costs, considering a plug-in hybrid for short commutes, or prioritising reliability and warranty coverage.

Consider alternatives if: You want engaging driving dynamics, maximum boot space, or prefer the premium feel and styling of rivals like the Peugeot 3008 or Skoda Karoq.

Competitive Position: The Kia Niro (2016-2022) occupies a unique position as the only compact SUV offering exclusively electrified powertrains. Whilst it excels in practicality, low running costs, and reliability, it falls short against rivals in driving engagement and premium appeal. The Skoda Karoq offers superior handling and expert ratings, whilst the Peugeot 3008 provides more stylish design and refinement. However, for budget-conscious buyers prioritising economy and dependability over driving thrills, the Niro remains an excellent value proposition, particularly in PHEV form for those with charging access.

Read our full Kia Niro Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.