April 26, 2024

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[THE INVESTOR] Kia Motors’ Niro has been named Green Car Journal’s 2018 top sport utility vehicle of the Year in the United States, the company said on Feb. 1. 

The Niro crossover, which went on sale early last year, beat rivals from Chevrolet, Mini and Volvo for the “Green SUV” title as consumers sought a hybrid offering crossover utility and attractive looks, Kia Motors said in a statement.

“The Kia Niro impresses on many levels with its appealing style, functionality and features,” Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal and GreenCarJournal.com, said in the statement. 

What’s equally important is its hybrid powertrain and affordable price point, he added, a combination that makes the Niro accessible to a great many buyers who wish to drive with a smaller environmental footprint.

By Seong Seung-hyun and newswires (ssh@heraldcorp.com)