# Hybrid Utility Vehicles Kia's Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle is Based On a New Eco-Car Platform By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2016-02-17 | Autos Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hybrid-utility References: [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/2017-kia-niro-chicago/41787/) & [kiamedia](http://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/media/pressreleases/11200/all-new-2017-niro-hybrid-utility-vehicle-arrives-in-the-windy-city-for-global-debut-at-chicago-auto) [Kia](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2023-kia-sportage-phev) has introduced a brand new vehicle, dubbed the Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle, is a production model slated for the 2017 model year and recently introduced at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. This particular vehicle is built in a brand new [eco-car platform](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rav4) that is set to be utilized by Kia as a foundational system for all its electrified vehicles going forward. The Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle uses a special [gas-electric hybrid propulsion system](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/offroad-vehicles1) with a front-wheel drive setup. It is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that is capable of throwing up as much as 103 horsepower, and also features a gasoline direct-injection system. Ultimately, this vehicle harks at the future of the eco-car, and proves that a smart eco-friendly vehicular platform can be adapted to high performance as well as other needs in a variety of driving environments. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.4/10 - Popularity: 28% | Activity: 5% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/autos) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Hybrid Utility Vehicles:** Hybrid utility vehicles are becoming more popular and offer potential for efficient and eco-friendly transportation options. - **Eco-car Platforms:** Eco-car platforms are driving innovation in the automotive industry, providing new opportunities for hybrid and electric vehicles. - **Gasoline Direct-injection Systems:** Gasoline direct-injection systems are improving the efficiency and performance of hybrid and fuel-efficient vehicles. ### Where This Applies - **Automotive Industry:** The automotive industry is incorporating eco-friendly technology into their vehicles, increasing demand for hybrid and electric models. - **Alternative Energy Industry:** The alternative energy industry is providing new opportunities for efficient and Eco-friendly transportation options. - **Technology Industry:** The technology industry is innovating in the field of automotive platforms and propulsion systems. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Emissions-Reducing Hybrid SUVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kia-sportage-hybrid.md) - [Tough Tech-Packed PHEVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2023-kia-sportage-phev.md) - [Affordable Electric Compact Crossovers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kia-ev5.md) - [Compact Electric Vehicles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ev2.md) - [Collaborative Vehicle Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mobility-solutions.md) - [High Speed-Capable Electric Vehicles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ev-9-gt.md) - [Retro-Futuristic Electric SUVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kia-ev9-suv.md) - [Shapeshifting Communal EVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kia-concept.md) - [Quick-Charge Electric CUVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hyundai-inster.md)