The Kia Niro is still very new, with 2018 being only its second model year. Obviously, as a hybrid vehicle, the Niro has excellent fuel economy. If you've been waiting for a hybrid hatchback SUV, your wish is Kia's command. The Niro gets an average of 50 miles per gallon, beaten only by the similar Toyota Prius, but not by much. With new plug-in option, the Niro can recharge in just three convenient hours in your garage at home.

Besides fuel economy, this unique model's biggest selling point is its upscale, spacious interior. There was a time when Kia interiors had a bad reputation--and hybrids are notorious for sucking passenger space with large batteries. Those days are long gone for the Niro, and Kia's commitment to impressive interiors shows in this well-designed SUV. You get a spacious cabin for both passengers and all their stuff, comfortable seating, and upscale design. Seating is adequate for even tall drivers and you sit high enough to get good visibility on the road. If you want the most space, go for the hatchback option.

Though Kia markets the Niro as a sport utility vehicle, there is no all-wheel drive option. As a front-wheel-drive-only vehicle, the Niro is lighter and more fuel efficient but doesn't have the traction of a dedicated AWD vehicle. If you live in snowy or icy climates, you may miss the extra help, but front wheel drive can often be all you need to drive safely. But if you want the AWD option and mind going slightly bigger, the Kia Sportage is a compact SUV with AWD option--but without a hybrid engine option.

No official word yet on this year's model, but since the 2017 model was not approved for towing, we're not holding our breath that the Niro will double as a trailer hauler this year either. However, since the Niro offers some towing capacity in foreign markets, some speculate that the 2018 Kia Niro may follow suit. If it does, the Niro will be one of only a handful of hybrid vehicles that can tow.

You can choose a Niro in one of four trims: FE, LX, EX, or Touring. If budget is your primary concern, pass on the base model. Yes, it's cheaper, but only by a few hundred dollars. The LX comes with nice features like keyless entry, push-button start, UVO3 infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility,SiriusXM audio, 7-inch touch screen, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. The upgrade is worth it--and the features just get more impressive as you go up the trim line.