Used Kia Niro for sale near Sunderland

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.9%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 700
Average Price: Around £19,000

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 pioneering small SUV that offers a unique proposition with no conventional petrol or diesel options. All versions are electrified, with a self-charging hybrid as the base model, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) introduced in 2017 offering up to 30 miles of electric range, and a full-electric e-Niro variant launched in 2018. The interior styling is conservative with good build quality, though materials feel somewhat underwhelming compared to rivals like the Peugeot 3008. Space inside is reasonable for four adults, though the middle rear seat is tight, and the boot is acceptable at 373 litres for the hybrid and 324 litres for the PHEV.

Performance is perfectly adequate around town, though both models are heavy and lack nippy acceleration for motorway overtaking. The hybrid achieves around 45mpg on the motorway and better in town, whilst the PHEV's official figures are misleading without regular charging. Insurance groups range from 11 to 15, keeping premiums low, and servicing is required annually or every 10,000 miles at reasonable Kia prices. The Niro's excellent reputation for reliability and fantastic seven-year warranty appeal to many buyers, though rivals offer better driving dynamics, more space, and superior comfort.

Best for: Buyers seeking an electrified SUV with flexible powertrain options, those prioritising low running costs and reliability, and drivers with access to charging facilities for the PHEV variant.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting engaging driving dynamics, buyers needing maximum boot space, or those seeking premium interior finishes and materials.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Niro if: You seek an electrified SUV with flexible powertrain options, prioritise low running costs and reliability, or have access to charging facilities for the PHEV variant.

Consider alternatives if: You want engaging driving dynamics, need maximum boot space, or require premium interior finishes and materials.

Competitive Position: The Kia Niro (2016-2022) occupies a unique position in the small SUV market as the only model offering exclusively electrified powertrains. Whilst it delivers excellent value and low running costs, rivals like the Skoda Karoq and Peugeot 3008 offer superior driving dynamics, interior quality, and overall refinement. The Toyota C-HR matches the Niro's practicality and value proposition. For buyers prioritising electrification, reliability, and affordability over driving engagement, the Niro remains a sensible choice, though it lacks the polish and performance of its competitors.

Read our full Kia Niro Review

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