Kia has unveiled the facelifted 2027 Niro in South Korea, giving the compact crossover a mid-cycle makeover that clearly takes cues from the brand’s electric lineup. While the central body and doors remain largely unchanged, the front and rear ends have been overhauled to echo the sharper styling of Kia’s EV models, including the EV2, EV3, EV5, and EV9.
The new front end is squarer and more upright, featuring wishbone-shaped DRLs and an EV-style body-color band between the headlights that draws attention away from the air intakes needed by the combustion engine.
At the rear, the Niro gains an entirely redesigned hatch reminiscent of the ICE-powered Sportage, with the license plate relocated to the bumper and a new black panel complementing the shape of the taillights. Kia also fitted new 18-inch wheels, giving the crossover a cleaner and more contemporary look.
Inside, the updates continue with a redesigned upper dashboard, twin 12.3-inch digital displays like those seen in Kia’s numbered EVs and the latest Sportage, and a refreshed two-spoke steering wheel. These changes bring a modern, high-tech feel to the cabin while maintaining the Niro’s practical usability.
Kia hasn’t disclosed any drivetrain updates yet; we’ll likely learn more in March when full details of the MY27 crossover are revealed. Currently, the Niro is offered with a 139-hp 1.6-liter hybrid, a 180-hp 1.6-liter plug-in hybrid, or, in select markets, a 201-hp EV with a 253-mile (407 km) EPA range.
3A Kia official noted, “The New Niro, which has maintained its heritage as the first eco-friendly SUV, will provide high customer satisfaction with excellent usability based on practical value as well as a high-quality design that reflects the latest trends.”
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