SINGAPORE - Hybrid cars are all the rage now. They combine the fuel efficiency of electric cars and the performance of petrol-driven cars, making it a popular choice for today's modern car buyers.

The all-new Kia Niro is one such hybrid car to look out for this year. A family-friendly crossover that comes with advanced smart features and a sporty crossover silhouette, it definitely appeals to today's tech-savvy drivers.

Record-breaking fuel efficiency

The Kia Niro has amazing fuel efficiency. It broke the Guinness World Record for lowest fuel consumption by a hybrid vehicle, achieving the highest score of 32.56 kilometres per litre when driven across the United States from coast to coast (approximately 6,000km) in a hybrid car. This feat is achieved by a parallel hybrid system that prevents energy waste by alternating between electricity and petrol.

When the car moves off from a stop, the hybrid system runs on pure electricity - no petrol. Only during full acceleration does the petrol engine work together with the electric motor to achieve the desired speed. This is especially great for urban roads, where cars are often caught in stop-and-go traffic. With this system, no energy is wasted by burning fuel unnecessarily.

And the car's regenerative braking system means that even when the vehicle speed decreases, energy is not wasted. The kinetic energy produced when decelerating or coming to a stop is captured and converted into electricity, which is then used to recharge the battery. The Kia Niro differentiates itself by having a lightweight and streamlined body. The car makes considerable use of Kia's proprietary Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS) and is equipped with air curtains, a rear spoiler and an active radiator air flap which closes at higher speeds. These elements help to reduce overall drag, which in turn improve fuel efficiency.

Not only is this great for the environment, but drivers benefit from lower costs of fuel as well. Record-breaking fuel efficiency translates to significant long-term savings that add up.

At the same time, Kia Niro keeps its CO2 emissions impressively low at 88g per km. This is important for Singaporean drivers thanks to the Carbon Emissions-Based Vehicle Scheme (CEVS). Singaporean drivers get rewarded for buying cars with low CO2 carbon emissions - the Kia Niro entitles the car buyer to CEVS rebates of up to $30,000.

Advanced smart features promoting safety and a pleasurable drive

The Kia Niro is great for families as it is equipped with advanced smart features that promote safety, offering peace of mind when driving.

For instance, the car has a Blind Spot Detection feature, which alerts the driver not to change lanes when it senses cars in the blind spot areas of the car. When reversing out of a parking space, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) feature warns you of any cross traffic with visual and audio signals.

The car also is also equipped with an electronic stability control that improves the vehicle's stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction, especially on slippery or uneven grounds. The hill-start assist control, which works by holding the car stationary for a few seconds after the brake is released, prevents the car from skidding or dangerously rolling backwards on a slope when moving off.

Taking the advanced technology up a notch is the wireless smartphone charger that comes as standard in the all-new Kia Niro. Say goodbye to unsightly cables that snake around your car dashboard.

Another piece of technology that Singaporean drivers will also appreciate in our hot and humid climate is ventilation through the front seats. Cool air is directed through the seats for increased comfort, especially for long journeys.

A sporty appearance with the functionalities of a crossover

Led by world-renowned automotive designer Peter Schreyer, the Kia Niro sports an athletic, aerodynamic styling with broad shoulder lines. The curves of the Kia Niro give it a distinctive look and the sunroof creates a cabin atmosphere that feels spacious and bright.

As a crossover, the Kia Niro has the size and style of an SUV and the practicalities of a hatchback. The versatile rear seats can accommodate three adults as well as fold flat to ferry larger items making it the perfect family car.

Reliability that gives you peace of mind

The Kia Niro's hybrid capability is powered by the efficient 1.56 kilowatt hour lithium ion polymer battery. Safely positioned below the rear seats, the battery comes with a 10-year warranty.

On top of that, Cycle & Carriage Kia offers an industry-leading 10-year engine warranty and five-year unlimited mileage warranty.

With its record-breaking fuel efficiency, tech-packed features and industry-leading warranty, the Kia Niro also comes at an attractive price of $112,999 based on current COE prices.

If you are a car buyer who prioritises fuel efficiency, appreciates the look and feel of sporty SUVs but needs the practicality of a hatchback, the Kia Niro is the perfect fit for you.

Visit kiabeyond.sg/niro or chat with KiaBot for more information.