The all-new Kia Niro will make its European debut at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show.

The low-emissions hybrid crossover marks the development of Kia’s first dedicated eco-car platform. The Niro will offer the practicality of a spacious crossover, together with the high fuel efficiency of an advanced hybrid powertrain. Engineered from the ground up as a dedicated hybrid vehicle, the car’s all-new platform has been engineered in isolation from existing Kia models, and is designed to accommodate a specific set of environmentally-conscious technologies and next-generation powertrains.

While the Niro’s hybrid powertrain – made up of a 1.6-litre GDI petrol engine, lithium-ion polymer battery pack, 32 kW electric motor and six-speed double-clutch transmission – is under development, Kia says its engineers are targeting CO2 emissions of 89 g/km.

Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motors Europe, commented, “The Kia Niro will offer buyers a compelling blend of crossover practicality with the cool, modern styling for which Kia is famous, and an efficient new hybrid powertrain to keep running costs down. The Niro fills a gap in the market for a crossover with typically low hybrid emissions, and will appeal to a broad range of European buyers.”

With its aerodynamic, crossover-inspired silhouette, subtly sculptured surfaces and 'sharp, modern lines,' the Niro is still recognisable as a Kia. The new model bears the latest evolution of Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille, as well as the brand’s wide C-pillar and a series of other signature design cues.

With a relatively long bonnet, short overhangs, elevated headlamps and rising shoulder line, the Niro’s athletic crossover stance represents a shift away from other hybrid cars on the market today, says Kia. The SUV’s silhouette tapers slightly towards the rear of the vehicle, ending in a ‘subtle’ rear roof spoiler, elevated tail-lamps and a wide, squared-off rear bumper.

Designed principally for efficient aerodynamic performance, the car's body allows for a low drag coefficient of 0.29 Cd – making it more aerodynamic than many other hybrid rivals says Kia. Its relatively long wheelbase (2,700 mm) and short front and rear overhangs (870 and 785 mm, respectively) also ensure occupants enjoy ‘generous’ interior space.

The Niro occupies a new space within the brand’s model line-up in terms of its size - smaller overall than the all-new Kia Sportage, though occupying a larger footprint than the cee’d hatchback. Available with a choice of seven colours, and buyers can choose from a selection of 16- or 18-inch alloy wheel designs when it goes on sale during Q3 2016.

Prices have yet to be announced.