The Niro's hybrid system pairs a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of total system output, driving the front wheels through a six-speed dual-clutch automatic. Regenerative braking captures energy that would otherwise be lost as heat and stores it in a 1.32-kWh battery, which is why the EPA-estimated city rating of 53 mpg is the Niro's best number.

On the highway the EPA estimate is 46 mpg, and combined it is 50 mpg. The EPA gives the 2027 Niro a Fuel Economy score of 8 out of 10. Standard Idle Stop and Go also shuts the engine off while you wait at a light, one more way the Niro saves fuel on errands across Marion County.

• 53 mpg city, EPA-estimated
• 46 mpg highway, EPA-estimated
• 50 mpg combined, EPA-estimated
• Same rating on all five 2027 trims
• EPA Fuel Economy score of 8 out of 10
• Idle Stop and Go standard

The 2027 Niro carries an 11.1-gallon fuel tank. Kia multiplies that by the EPA-estimated 50 mpg combined rating to arrive at a Kia-estimated 555 miles of driving range, enough for a round trip from Ocala to Orlando with plenty left in the tank.

Your own results will vary with speed, temperature, cargo and driving style. Choosing ECO mode, easing into stops so regenerative braking can do its work and keeping idling to a minimum all help you get more miles from each gallon. The battery recharges as you drive, so there is never a charging cable to deal with.

• 11.1-gallon fuel tank
• Kia-estimated 555-mile driving range
• Self-charging hybrid battery, no plug needed
• Drive Mode Select with ECO and Sport
• Runs on regular unleaded fuel