Kia EV3 Review | Top electric crossover
Read Caroline's Kia EV3 review for everything you need to know about buying Kia's new compact electric crossover in Ireland.
The new Kia EV3 has arrived in Ireland and is one of the most anticipated new electric models to go on sale in 2025. It's the follow-up to Kia's popular EV6 and award-winning EV9 in the brand's 'EV' range of electric vehicles.
With compact dimensions yet a wheelbase the same as the Sportage, the EV3 promises to be a stylish and practical car for Irish new car buyers. There are two battery options with the largest capable of driving up to 600 kilometres on a single battery charge.
Let's take a closer look.
Design
The EV3 is a quirkily styled compact electric crossover. It sits a little bit higher off the ground than the average hatchback and has pleasantly chunky looks. A lot has gone into the aerodynamics of this car, so there is plenty of smooth surfacing, flush door handles at the front, hidden ones at the rear, an active air flap and the roof is slightly narrower at the rear to optimise air flow over the vehicle.
At the front, it has the same LED 'star map' lighting that has become a signature for the brand. This is replicated at the rear. There are a range of colours available including Frost Blue and the GT Line exclusive Aventurine Green.
The range kicks off with the Earth 2 trim line on 17-wheels. This is the best spec to get the most range from the car. The Earth 3 and GT Line come on 19-inch wheels, which impacts efficiency somewhat. The GT Line also replaces the EV3's plain cladding for a black high gloss finish in areas like around the wheel arches.
Kia EV3 Interior
The EV3 has a modern and minimalist cabin with excellent digital tech on board. The full digital driver display blends into a small panel for climate settings and a touchscreen than controls media, maps and more. It is responsive and easy to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly. The system also includes battery conditioning to optimise battery temperature for the best charging rate. This can be activated manually or automatically when a fast charger is selected as the destination in the in-built navigation.
The minimalist design and lack of a centre console creates a lot of open space up front in the EV3. There is plenty of storage, cupholders and a small sliding table between the two front seats in the Earth 3 and GT Line versions. The cabin feels solidly built but there is quite a lot of plain grey plastic in the dashboard and doors. Higher spec models do get more fabric trim and ambient lighting to add a little more plushness. Fabric seats come as standard, while Earth 3 and GT Line models have synthetic leather seats.
Even the very entry Earth 2 model is well-equipped with heated front seats, heated steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging, USB ports and loads of safety equipment. The Earth 3 adds things like power adjustment for the driver’s seat, ambient lighting and the sliding table. Top of the range GT Line comes with a head-up display, sunroof, special three spoke steering wheel, heated rear seats and even a 3-pin socket underneath the rear seats!
Practicality
Built on a bespoke electric vehicle platform, the EV3 has a completely flat floor so all rear seat passengers have plenty of legroom. There is Isofix on the two outer seats. There is no through loading but the rear seats do split fold 60:40.
The EV3 has a generous 460-litre boot with plenty of practical features like a cover and a false floor that can be used to create a flat loading sill with space underneath to store charging cables, or dropped completely to create more depth for carrying larger items. Under the bonnet there is also a small storage compartment. GT Line models come with a powered tailgate as standard.
Battery and Range
The Kia EV3 is available with the choice of two lithium ion batteries. The standard range has 55kWh usable capacity and can travel up to 436 kilometres (WLTP) on a single battery charge. The long range battery has a 78kWh usable capacity and can travel up to 605 kilometres on a single charge or up to 585 kilometres in the GT Line model tested (WLTP).
The entry model does not come with a heat pump but it's standard on the Earth 3 and GT Line.
Over 700 kilometres of driving my average consumption was 20 kWh per 100 kilometres, which translates to real world range of 390 kilometres from the Kia EV3 long range GT Line. The test was performed over the Christmas period with a spell of mild weather followed by a cold snap with very low temperatures. Driving included urban, rural roads and high speed motorway driving.
Driving the Kia EV3
The EV3 has been tuned for European roads and comes with a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension that translates to a very orderly drive on Irish roads. Only the very rutted rural roads or manhole covers in town upset the EV3 so for an electric vehicle, it is one of the most comfortable and compliant at this end of the market. There's not too much road or wind noise, which makes for a very relaxing drive. All versions use a 204hp motor powering the front wheels, and the GT line can do the 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds.
The low down weight of the battery ensures it feels solid and stable on the road at all times, while the steering gives a good connection to the road. It does feel quite heavy at times when you're braking approaching a junction or roundabout, and there is lean in corners too. There's the handy addition of driving modes including Eco, Normal, Sport, My Drive and Snow. There are paddles behind the steering wheel to adjust the strength of regenerative braking and a full one pedal driving mode that allows you to control the car using just the accelerator pedal.
Charging
The EV3 uses a 400 volt charging architecture and can charge up to 135kW DC in its long range battery form. That translates to a 10-80% battery charge in 31 minutes or 29 minutes for the standard range battery. 11kW AC charging is included. GT Line models add vehicle to load charging with an adaptor that means you can power other devices from the car.
Kia EV3 Pricing
The range kicks off at €36,790 for the Earth 2 with standard range battery or from €40,350 with the long range battery. The Earth 3 with the long range range battery only is available from €42,840 and from €47,190 for the GT Line.
Verdict
The new Kia EV3 is a timely evolution of Kia's expertise in compact electric vehicles that started with the likes of the Niro and Soul, cars that did well in the Irish market and put Kia on the map as one of the most prolific makers of electric cars.
Built on a bespoke electric vehicle platform, the new Kia EV3 is a very complete machine with competitive range, practical interior and plenty of style to turn heads.
While the temptation might be to make the bigger spend on the long range battery version, in its simplest form the EV3 is well-equipped and will make a good runabout for those who can charge at home. For longer trips, the long range battery offers more freedom between charges.
There's a slew of new competitors hitting the market at the moment but the EV3's combination of style, practicality, on board tech and price will keep it definitely at the races!
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Kia EV3 Video Review
Here's a look around the new Kia EV3 and a test drive on Irish roads to check out its comfort and real world efficiency.
MG ZS Hybrid Review
Read Caroline's MG ZS Hybrid review for everything you need to know about buying MG's new small hybrid SUV in Ireland.
2024 has been the year of the hybrid for MG Motor Ireland. The brand has launched three this year - the MG3 Hybrid supermini, the MG HS plug-in hybrid and now the MG ZS Hybrid.
The ZS is a compact SUV that was part of MG's relaunch a few years ago and is the brand's second bestselling model in Ireland after the MG4. It started life as an electric SUV but now MG has introduced a brand new ZS Hybrid in keeping with market demand for hybrid vehicles.
It goes on sale priced from €29,995 undercutting key rivals like the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid, Hyundai Kona Hybrid and even the new Dacia Duster Hybrid.
So is it worth it? Let's take a closer look.
Design
The ZS is a substantial car in the metal and is now a bit longer, wider and taller than the ZS EV. It has chunky SUV looks and the new face of the brand, similar to the MG3 and larger MG HS. LED lights come as standard for a smart look and it is particularly brilliant in blue metallic paint!
There are a few trim levels on offer but the mid-range Excite adds more desirable 17-inch alloy wheels. The Exclusive model on test has its own set of 18-inch alloys and rear privacy glass. At the back, the registration plate has been moved to the middle, which gives the hybrid a different look to the electric.
MG ZS Hybrid Interior
The ZS Hybrid gets a newly designed interior with a grown-up design and lots of soft touch materials. It has some stylish details like the large gear selector and the silver finish around rectangular air vents. Exclusive models come with black leather-style upholstery, which really gives it a classy finish. The seats are also heated and the driver's seat has power adjustment. So altogether it stands up well among its rivals when it comes to the cabin finish.
There's a full digital driver display and large touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. You can connect it via a USB-A port, though there is also a USB-C.
The touchscreen has similar graphics to the larger MG HS and a row of shortcut buttons underneath to useful functions like demisting the rear window or turning on or off the ventilation system. You can also set shortcuts to adjust the climate control or other functions via buttons on the steering wheel.
It comes well-equipped from entry with a parking camera, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and keyless entry.
Practicality
The ZS Hybrid is certainly at the upper end of the class for interior space. It doesn't feel small at all inside. There's loads of legroom in the back and handy features like pockets in the back of the front seats, generous door bins, USB port and Isofix on the two outer seats.
The boot is also generously sized for a small SUV at 443 litres. That's larger than the Toyota Yaris Cross and Nissan Juke Hybrid but a little way off the Dacia Duster Hybrid.
Driving the MG ZS
The new ZS Hybrid uses the same hybrid system as the MG3 supermini. It's based around a 1.5-litre petrol engine, small battery and electric motor. It's a standard hybrid so it doesn't need to be plugged in and charged to get the best from it.
It stands out for how powerful and lively it feels from behind the wheel. There's a whopping 196hp being fed to the front wheels and if you do accelerate with gusto coming out of a junction for instance, there is sometimes wheel spin. 0-100 is just 8.7 seconds. There are drive modes to adjust the drive including sport, normal and eco.
But the whole point of a hybrid is efficiency. The ZS can dip into EV driving to boost efficiency however in my experience it wasn't as fuel efficient as the likes of a Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid for instance. My average fuel consumption was 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres, which is okay but I couldn't replicate MG's quoted 5.1 litres.
There is regenerative braking and you can toggle between three levels of that to return energy to the battery.
In its favour the ZS Hybrid feels fluid and natural to drive. It never gets too noisy with no whining from the engine when you put your foot down. It's comfortable to drive on the motorway, though it can feel a little bumpier in town driving over imperfections in the road surface.
The steering is light, which makes parking and town driving very easy but it's not exactly a driver's car like a Ford Puma.
The MG Pilot safety and driver assistance features come as standard including adaptive cruise control, active emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot detection, forward collision warning, and traffic jam assist.
Verdict
Altogether, the MG ZS Hybrid is a great addition to the MG range offering a convenient, powerful hybrid option in the shape of a popular small SUV. It's very stylish and spacious inside, and it's still one of the best value small SUVs on sale.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
MG ZS Hybrid Video Review
Watch my video review of the MG ZS Hybrid, tested on Irish roads for its practicality, performance and efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz EQE Arrives In Ireland
The new Mercedes-Benz EQE has arrived in Ireland and goes on sale priced from €85,980.
The EQE is the latest model to launch here from the Mercedes EQ brand of electric vehicles. The new electric business saloon from Mercedes-Benz is built on electric architecture developed specifically for electric vehicles that also underpins the larger EQS.
Available in numerous styling and specifications lines, the new Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ version is expected to be of most interest to the Irish market. Priced from €85,980, the EQE 350's battery has a usable energy content of 90 kWh, combined electrical consumption rated at 22.5-19.7 kWh/100 km, and 215 kW of power. Range is given up to 654km (WLTP).
At launch, there will also be the AMG EQE 43 with 350 kW of power and priced at €120,180.
Coming later will be a EQE 500 (300kW) and AMG EQE 53 (with up to 505kW), both equipped with 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
Slightly shorter than EQS in terms of overall length, EQE is said to be comparable to the CLS in terms of its outer dimensions and visual appeal. Its aerodynamic design is reflected in sculpted surfaces. Other features include flush mounted 19 to 21-inch wheels, short front
overhangs, and sharp rear spoiler.
Inside, the EQE has been designed for a spacious executive interior, with an overall boot capacity of 430 litres. Interior design and equipment levels are heavily influenced by the larger EQS, including the availability of the MBUX 'Hyperscreen', automatic comfort doors and rear-axle steering.
Ciaran Allen, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars in Ireland, said:
“Amongst dealers and customers, initial reaction to the coming of EQE has been extremely positive. We are confident EQE will be another electric powered winner as motorists convert to more eco-friendly motoring in ever increasing numbers.”
The new EQE will join the recently launched Mercedes-Benz EQS, as well as the brand's range of electric SUVs including the EQA, EQB, EQC and EQV.
Women@SIMI Takes Place In Dublin
The 2022 Women@SIMI event has taken place in Dublin. It coincides with the release of a new survey carried out by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), which finds that 71% of women would recommend a career in the Industry to others.
The survey of 140 women from across the industry was carried out as part of SIMI’s on-going drive to encourage more women to join what has traditionally been viewed as a male-dominated sector.
The 7th Annual Women@SIMI event took place at the Gibson Hotel, Dublin, and featured a panel of guest speakers: Anne Cassin, Master of Ceremonies; Lucy Gaffney, current Director of Digicel Group; and Sharon Keegan, founder of female-led athleisure wear company Peachy Lean.
The survey found that 67% of respondents believe that women have become more visible in the industry in recent years. While 67% of respondents said that their companies have increased the number of new female employees recruited in the last 3 years.
However, over half of survey respondents believe that women are under-represented in their organisation, while 40% said that women did not have the same opportunities for advancement as men in their companies.
Also, just 26% of survey respondents identified themselves as being at Director/Board level in their organisation. This is lower than the national average of 30%.
When asked about what factors could help progress women in leadership roles, a change in cultural perception of the automotive industry overall came out on top, followed by a more flexible working environment, greater management support, leadership skills/training along with mentorship.
Gillian Fanning, SIMI President, said:
“Research has shown that female employees contribute significantly to the long-term success of any company, yet the motor industry is lagging behind many other sectors in terms of gender diversity. While our research found that the majority of female employees have seen positive changes for women over the past three years, under-representation of women across the board, and particularly at senior levels, is clearly evident.
However, what’s encouraging is the fact that almost 86% of respondents feel supported by their male colleagues and this support is critical to the success of gender diversity initiatives. While there’s no doubt that progress has taken place over recent years, with greater visibility of women than ever in the industry, we still have a long way to go in terms of addressing the inherent gender imbalance. We must continue to stress that this is not just an industry for men and highlight the diverse range of roles and opportunities on offer for women if we are to reap the proven rewards of increased female participation in our sector. We need to plan for the future – a future that will hopefully mean a greater number of women joining us and more women taking on senior roles and making strategic decisions for their companies."
Derek McDermott, Managing Director of event sponsor Bank of Ireland Finance, said:
“In both the Banking Industry and Motor Industry, we have a way to go in the whole area of gender diversity. We need to ensure that there are meaningful careers for women across our organisations and while we have made good progress, there is so much more to do. Bank of Ireland is proud to be a sponsor of this event - a tangible demonstration of the fact that we take the issue of gender diversity very seriously.”
Nissan Ariya Coming Soon To Ireland
Nissan Ireland has confirmed that the new Nissan Ariya will go on sale priced from €48,995 when it arrives here in June.
What we know about new Ariya
The new Nissan Ariya will be available in Ireland with two battery options. There's a 63 kWh battery that delivers a range of 402 kilometres and an 87 kWh battery that offers a range of 529 kilometres. Models are two wheel drive as standard with e-4ORCE, Nissan’s most advanced all-wheel drive technology available also.
A Combined Charging System (CCS) will be available on Ariyas sold in Europe to facilitate fast charging. The Nissan Ariya has a 7.4 kW on board charger for AC charging. A 22 kW will be available from December as an option. The Ariya can also support fast charging up to 130 kW.
Nissan is launching the new Ariya in two trim levels: Advance and Evolve.
Pricing will start for the entry grade 63 kWh Nissan Ariya Advance from €48,995. At the moment we know that the top of the range 87 kWh Ariya Evolve will be priced at €66,995.
The interior of the new Ariya features a minimalist dashboard. For example primary control functions vibrate when touched and only appear when the car is switched on. The reimagined interior allows for an entirely flat floor with a wide, open lounge-like experience and spacious cabin.
Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto come as standard. There's also a wireless phone charger and intelligent personal assistance technology.
Nissan’s Safety Shield System includes Intelligent 360° Around View Monitor, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Driver Alertness, Intelligent Cruise Control and Lane Intervention. There's also Intelligent Emergency Braking (Pedestrian & Cyclist Detection, Junction Assist), Rear Emergency Braking and cross traffic alert technology.
Anything else?
Other standard features include ProPilot with Navi-Link, and the e-Pedal. ProPilot helps drivers stay centred in their lane, navigate stop-and-go motorway traffic and maintain a set vehicle speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. e-Pedal, which is also available in the Nissan LEAF, allows drivers to launch, accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator.
The top of the range 87 kWh Ariya Evolve comes with part PVC/Synthentic suede seats, Intelligent Rear View Mirror, a Heads Up Display (HUD) and ProPILOT Park. There's also ventilated (heat and cooled) front seats, heated rear seats, power memory mirrors, power memory driver and passenger 8-way seats, a DAB and Bose 10-speaker sound system and an openable panoramic sunroof.
Seamus Morgan, Managing Director of Nissan Ireland, said:
“Nissan invented the crossover segment with the Nissan Qashqai in 2007 and started the journey to electrification when it launched the mass market Nissan LEAF in 2010. The all new Ariya builds on our success, key strengths and pioneering expertise and we expect that it will quickly establish itself as one of the best-selling EVs on Irish roads.”
“There is massive interest in this car and we have launched an extensive national roadshow to showcase it to customers at local Nissan dealerships. This car will be at the heart of the accelerated shift towards electric driving that we are now witnessing in Ireland. Its arrival is also a key element of Nissan’s strategy to electrify its range and to increase its electrification sales mix across Europe by more than 75% by 2026,” he added.
The new Ariya electric crossover from Nissan is available for pre-orders now.
New Car Registrations Ireland April 2022
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry has released the official 221 new vehicle registration figures for April. They show that new car registrations in April 2022 were up 10.3% (7,886) when compared to April 2021 (7,147).
Registrations year to date are up 4.7% (57,776) on the same period last year (55,177) and are 20.9% behind (73,030) that of pre-Covid levels in 2019.
The five bestselling car brands so far this year are: 1. Toyota, 2. Hyundai, 3. Kia, 4. Volkswagen and 5. Skoda.
The five bestselling cars so far this year are 1. Hyundai Tucson, 2. Toyota Corolla, 3. Toyota C-HR, 4. Toyota RAV4 and 5. Toyota Yaris.
For the month of April, 1,286 new electric vehicles were registered compared to 590 in April 2021. So far this year 7,524 new electric cars have been registered in comparison to 3,406 in the same period 2021.
The five top electric cars sold so far this year are 1. Hyundai IONIQ 5, 2. Volkswagen ID.4, 3. Kia EV6, 4. Nissan Leaf, and 5. Tesla Model 3.
The bestselling car in April 2022 was the Hyundai Tucson.
Electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid continue to increase their market share, with a combined market share now of 43.89%.
Petrol continues to remain dominant in the Irish market with 27.23%. Diesel accounts for 26.40%, hybrid for 23.56%, electric for 13.02% and plug-in hybrid for 7.31%.
Used car imports for April (4,223) have seen a decrease of 25.6% on April 2021 (5,676). Year to date imports are down 34.2% (15,864) on 2021 (24,095).
Light Commercials vehicles (LCV) are down 31.8% (1,626) compared to April last year (2,383) and year to date are down 19.9% (10,992).
HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are down 36.1% (209) in comparison to April 2021 (327). Year to date HGV's are down 15.9% (1,030).
Commenting on the new vehicle registrations Brian Cooke, Director General SIMI said:
“While new car registrations in April saw a 10.3% increase on the same month last year and are up 4.7% year to date, overall registrations still remain 20.9% behind that of pre-COVID (2019) levels. The return to more normal new car sales levels is being hampered in the short term by both supply chain issues and the uncertain global political climate. Over the medium term both the high levels of vehicle taxation and the uncertainty over the continuation of electric vehicle supports has the potential to lead to the ongoing suppression of new vehicle demand. This will only make the ability to optimise the reduction in transport emissions more difficult. The increase in electric vehicle sales continues to be the one positive feature of the new car market, but this has only been possible due to the SEAI Grant supports for both cars and home charging. The continuation of these supports is simply vital if we want to get close to the EV targets outlined in the country’s Climate Action Plan.”
ŠKODA Karoq Pricing For Ireland (2022)
The ŠKODA Karoq has been updated for 2022 and is available to order now.
ŠKODA Ireland has confirmed that the updated Karoq will go on sale priced from €33,750.
What's new for the Karoq in 2022?
Updates for 2022 include a more refined design language, sustainable materials, new technologies and a choice of efficient latest-generation EVO engines. It will be available in three trim lines - Ambition, Style and Sportline.
Since the launch of the Karoq in Ireland in 2017, more than 5,000 have found homes here. It was the brand's third most delivered model in the ŠKODA range in Ireland in 2021, after the Octavia and the Kodiaq.
New design details include a wider, now hexagonal ŠKODA grille, restyled front and rear aprons, as well as slimmer and sharper LED headlights and tail lights. The daytime running lights are now split in two. For the first time, the Karoq can be equipped with full-LED Matrix headlights - standard on Style and Sportline models.
Aerodynamics has been improved by more than 9% by new alloy wheels with Aero inserts, a longer rear spoiler, side finlets on the rear window and the now covered underbody.
There's also an increased range of assistance and safety systems.
Inside there is new decorative trim and upholstery options, which can be made from sustainable materials if selected. For example, in the Eco pack, the seat covers are partly made from recycled plastic juice bottles.
Optional extras to increase comfort include enhanced LED ambient lighting (standard on Style and Sportline models), which now also illuminates the rear door trim in one of ten colours, and the electrically adjustable front-passenger seat including a memory function.
Engines include one diesel and two petrol options, delivering power outputs ranging from 110bhp to 150bhp.
Pricing for the ŠKODA Karoq in Ireland
| Model | Fuel | Transmission | Gears | AMBITION | STYLE | SPORTLINE | |
| 1.0TSI 110hp | Petrol | Manual | 6-speed | €33,750 | €37,750 | --- | |
| 1.5TSI 150hp | Petrol | Manual | 6-speed | €35,975 | €41,495 | €43,770 | |
| 1.5TSI 150hp DSG | Petrol | DSG (Auto) | 7-speed | €38,360 | €43,585 | €45,855 | |
| 2.0TDI 115hp | Diesel | Manual | 6-speed | €34,900 | €39,420 | €41,225 | |
| 2.0TDI 115hp DSG | Diesel | DSG (Auto) | 7-speed | €38,040 | €41,875 | €43,695 | |
| 2.0TDI 150hp | Diesel | Manual | 6-speed | €36,590 | €40,975 | €43,130 | |
| 2.0TDI 150hp DSG 4X4 | Diesel | DSG (Auto) | 7-speed | --- | €50,140 | --- |
Kia Niro On The Way To Ireland (2022)
Kia Ireland has confirmed that the new Kia Niro will arrive in Ireland this summer as a plug-in hybrid (Niro PHEV) and an electric vehicle (Niro EV).
Pricing and specifications will be confirmed closer to launch. The Niro PHEV will arrive in time for the new 222 registration in July, with the Niro EV following later in the summer
What's new for the 2022 Kia Niro?
Kia’s popular Niro crossover has been entirely redesigned from the ground up for this new generation of the car. The Niro first arrived in Ireland in 2016 as a hybrid, before adding a plug-in hybrid and full battery electric vehicle to the range. It has since helped establish Kia as a major player in the EV market.
At the front, the new Niro showcases the latest evolution of Kia’s signature Tiger Face. At the rear there are new boomerang-shaped LED taillights. Personalisation options include the choice of different C-Pillar colours that contrast or complement the body colour and up to three different finishes for the cladding depending on the trim level chosen.
The new Niro is built on the brand's K3 platform and is said to feature class-leading interior space and storage capacity for the C-SUV segment. The new Niro EV has 475 litres of boot space and an additional 20 litres in the frunk. Niro PHEV models come with 348 litres of boot space, which can be further expanded by fully reclining the flat-fold rear seats.
Premium-effect recycled materials are used in the new cabin of the Niro, and a suite of new safety systems will also feature. Two 10.25-inch display screens show vehicle and navigation information, while a multi-mode touch display allows control of infotainment and heating
Other convenience features added to the new Niro include Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) and vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.
Niro PHEV
The new Kia Niro PHEV will use the brand's 1.6-litre GDI petrol engine, paired with Kia’s second-generation six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. A 62kW e-motor in the PHEV version results in combined maximum power of 183PS and provides an electric-only range covering up to 65km (WLTP).
The Niro PHEV debuts Hyundai Motor Group’s very first 5.5 kWh high-volt Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater for Plug-in Hybrid models, extending the electric driving range in colder conditions. The self-regulated ceramic elements provide cabin heating to complement the vehicle’s heating core and ensure a continuous flow of warm air.
An intelligent Green Zone Drive Mode on Niro PHEV automates the use of electric power by taking location guidance from the navigation system, driving pattern learning or manual driver input.
Niro EV
The battery electric Kia Niro will use an 64.8 kWh battery with an electric range of 463 km (WLTP). When temperatures are low, the system in Niro EV uses navigation-based battery conditioning to pre-heat the battery when a charge point is selected as a destination, which helps shorten charge times and secure battery performance.
The EV version is distinguished from the PHEV by a two-tone closed grille and unique steel grey side cladding. The Niro EV has also received a dedicated lower grille and bumper treatment in addition to model-specific 17-inch alloys. The plug-in charging port for the EV model is positioned in the centre of the front grille for easy access at all charge points.
The new Kia Niro has received suspension and steering improvements in this new generation of the car. Additional insulation and padding have been inserted around the vehicle’s structure to reduce engine and road noise.
Other engineering advancements include a slight increase in torsional rigidity, said to deliver improvements in ride, handling, and steering behaviour.
Opel Grandland Pricing For Ireland (2022)
Opel has announced pricing and equipment for the new Opel Grandland range in Ireland, ahead of its arrival in dealers this April.
The Opel Grandland has been updated for 2022 and will go on sale priced from €35,495, plus delivery related charges.
What's new for the Opel Grandland?
At the front, the Grandland now has the new Opel 'Vizor' brand face. While inside the interior has been significantly updated to include the brand's 'Pure Panel' cockpit.
Segment first adaptive IntelliLux LED® Pixel Lights with high beam assist now feature as standard across the range for Opel's flagship family SUV for improved safety and visibility.
Designed and produced in Germany, the latest Grandland is available with petrol and diesel engines from launch. A plug-in hybrid will join in early summer.
The Grandland petrol is a 1.2-litre with 130 hp and the choice of a 6-speed manual gearbox or 8-speed automatic. There's also a 1.5-litre diesel engine available with 130hp and an 8-speed automatic. Front wheel drive versions of Opel's Grandland plug-in hybrid will arrive in the summer with 225hp. While all wheel drive versions will follow later in 2022.
Pricing and equipment for new Grandland
Available in three trims in Ireland, the Grandland SC trim retails from €35,495 plus delivery. Standard equipment includes LED Pixel Lighting, active emergency braking, cruise control with speed limiter, active lane keep assist, side blind spot alert, enhanced traffic sign recognition, driver attention alert, hill start assist with electronic parking brake, and electronically controlled dual zone air conditioning. There's also DAB radio, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, 7” touchscreen, Bluetooth audio streaming, front console USB, 230V plug in 2nd row, 17” alloy wheels, auto headlamps, front fogs, rain sensitive windscreen, front and rear parking sensors and rear view camera.
The sporty SRI trim retails form €37,495 plus delivery. Standard equipment includes AGR driver’s seat, electrically adjustable driver’s seat lumbar adjustment, adjustable driver seat cushion extension, half leather-effect seat trim, and alloy sporty pedals (auto versions). There's also a 10” touchscreen with satellite navigation, 12” multi-colour driver information cluster, USB connection in the 2nd row, wireless charger, Black Pack (high gloss Opel logo and badging), two tone black roof and black mirror caps, high gloss black roof rails, 18” alloy wheels and privacy tinted windows.
The top-of-the-range Elite trim retails from €39,495. It comes as standard with keyless entry and start, heated front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, electrically adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, 19” alloy wheels and handsfree electric tailgate.
James Brooks, Managing Director at Leeson Motors, Opel Importer in Ireland, said:
“The striking new Grandland sports a fresh new exterior look, a high-tech interior, a range of highly efficient powertrains and incredible levels of standard safety and comfort equipment. It is sure to appeal to our existing and new conquest customers alike. We look forward to market growth in 2022 in the all-important C-SUV segment.”
The new Opel Grandland is available this April at Opel Dealer showrooms to test drive.
This summer will also see the launch of the new Opel Astra, with the Astra Sports Tourer to follow.
New Car Registrations Ireland March 2022
New car registrations data from SIMI for March shows a 40.7% increase to 12,935 cars when compared to 9,192 in March 2021.
Registrations year to date are up 4% on the same period last year, with 49,928 cars sold in total.
The top 5 bestselling car brands so far in 2022 are 1. Toyota, 2. Hyundai, 3. Kia, 4. Skoda, and 5. Volkswagen.
The top 5 bestselling cars were 1. Hyundai Tucson, 2. Toyota Corolla, 3. Toyota C-HR, 4. Toyota RAV4 and 5. Toyota Yaris.
The bestselling electric vehicles were 1. Hyundai IONIQ 5, 2. Volkswagen ID.4, 3. Kia EV6, 4. Nissan Leaf and 5. Tesla Model 3.
Used car imports for March were 3,793 cars, a decrease of 35.1% on March 2021. Year to date imports are down 36.8% on 2021.
For the month of March, 1,930 new electric vehicles were registered compared to 1,034 in March 2021.
So far this year 6,244 new electric cars have been registered in comparison to 2,816 on the same period 2021.
Electric Vehicle and Plug-in Hybrids and Hybrids continue to increase their market share, with a combined market share now of 44.63%. Despite a large decrease in market share for internal combustion engine type vehicles, petrol remains dominant at 27.4%, with diesel accounting for 25.83%, hybrid for 24.56%, electric for 12.51% and plug-in hybrid for 7.56%.
Light Commercials vehicles (LCV) are down 32.2% (2,032) compared to March last year (2,998) and year to date are down 17.3% (9,372).
HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are down 25.9% (249) in comparison to March 2021 (336). Year to date HGV's are down 8.4% (823).
Commenting on the new vehicle registrations Brian Cooke, Director General SIMI said:
“While new car sales are up 41% on March last year and up 4% year to date, they still remain 22% behind that of pre-COVID (2019) levels. Commercial vehicles registrations for both the heavy and light sectors are down for March and year to date. There is strong demand for new and used cars among consumers, although supply continues to remain a major challenge for the Industry, while the hire drive market continues to be well below pre-pandemic levels.
The Electric Vehicle market continues to grow, with the first quarter of this year seeing over 10,000 new EVs (BEV and PHEV combined) registered, almost double the amount for Q1 2021. This acceleration in EV sales is down to both the increase in the number of models now available for sale, and the SEAI Grants supporting their purchase. We welcome the Government's publication yesterday of their draft Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Strategy 2022-2025. It is vital that Ireland delivers a modern agile charging infrastructure that keeps pace with both the increasing number of EVs and the ongoing improvements in charging technologies. By doing this, we can work together to build consumer confidence in the EV project.”