Kia has pulled off the wraps of the all-new Niro small crossover SUV, nearly five years after the outgoing model made its debut in the United States. Prototypes of the 2023 Niro have been spotted testing prior to today's unveiling, so this is the first time we're seeing its Habaniro Concept-inspired design.

Habaniro Concept-Inspired Looks

And oh boy does it look very much closely related to the Habaniro Concept. Utilizing the brand's 'Opposites United' design language, the front end sees yet another interpretation of the brand's 'tiger face' design. Its most striking front-end feature is its 'heartbeat' LED daytime running lights.

Even bolder is its rear three-quarter view, which makes the front end look tame in comparison. There's a sort of side blade design at its wide rear pillars, and this can be customized with a variety of color choices depending on the market and variant. Lastly, a striking pair of vertical LED taillights highlight its side blade design, though its thick rear pillars will surely compromise rear visibility.

Premium And Modern Interior With Sustainable Materials

Just like the exterior, the interior looks completely nothing like the outgoing Niro. Kia is proud to highlight the horizontal and diagonal lines opposing each other as a nod to its current design language. The execution is artistically presented through the use of soft-touch materials and high-gloss black surfaces, though the latter tends to be prone to smudges and scratches. Other design highlights include its LED ambient lighting and dual-screen layout.

While the interior does look striking and premium, Kia also used a higher amount of sustainable materials. The headlining is made from recycled wallpaper, while the seats are made from Bio PU (polyurethane) with Tencel from eucalyptus leaves. Lastly, the doors are made from BTX-free (benzene, toluene, and xylene) paint.

Powertrains With Varying Degrees Of Electrification

For now, Kia has not yet revealed its powertrain details except for the fact that all of its powertrains will feature varying degrees of electrification like the outgoing model. Specifically, this will include a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully-electric powertrains.

For reference, the outgoing Kia Niro's hybrid powertrain is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that's mated to an electric motor and has a total output of 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The plug-in hybrid version produces the same figures as the hybrid, but benefits from a bigger battery that offers up to 26 miles of pure electric range. Lastly, the Niro electric vehicle (EV) produces 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque and has a range of 239 miles.

The 2023 Kia Niro will be on display at the Seoul Mobility Show from November 25 to December 5, with retail sales expected to start next year. A North American launch will most likely happen in early 2022.