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Kia · Compact SUV · 2016–2022

Kia Niro DE

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
2.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Kia Niro DE is available with 4 engine variants — from 105 to 204 hp.

1.6 HEV · Benziner Hybrid· 141 PS
2016 2022
Stay Away! 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.6 PHEV · Benziner Plug-in-Hybrid· 191 PS
2017 2022
Stay Away! 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
e-Niro 39 kWh · Elektro· 136 PS
2019 2022
Be Careful 0 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
e-Niro 64 kWh · Elektro· 204 PS
2019 2022
Be Careful 0 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Kia 1.6 HEV (Benziner Hybrid, 141 PS) has the G4LE (1.6L GDi Hybrid (Smartstream)) — rated: "Stay Away!", 4 known weaknesses.

The Kia 1.6 PHEV (Benziner Plug-in-Hybrid, 191 PS) has the G4LE (1.6L GDi Hybrid (Smartstream)) — rated: "Stay Away!", 4 known weaknesses.

The Kia e-Niro 39 kWh (Elektro, 136 PS) has the KIA-EV-64-NIRO (Elektro 64.8 kWh) — rated: "Be Careful".

The Kia e-Niro 64 kWh (Elektro, 204 PS) has the KIA-EV-64-NIRO (Elektro 64.8 kWh) — rated: "Be Careful".

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!DCT dual-clutch gearbox — judder and shift pauses

The dry 6-speed DCT in the Niro DE shows characteristic judder when pulling away in stop-and-go traffic from 40,000–60,000 km. Recalibration can help; in severe cases, replacement is needed.

Symptoms: Judder when pulling away below 30 km/h, shift pauses, RPM fluctuations in the lower rev range.
from 50,000 km
Ad clutchspaket DCT Kia Niro DE6-Gang DCT Kia Niro clutch
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Above Average
29 complaints · 2016–2022
Brakes
7 ⚠ 2
Powertrain
6
Electrical
6
Other
6 ⚠ 1
Engine
5 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Brakes (7 complaints)
⚠ Powertrain (6 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (6 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 10 weaknesses have been documented for the Kia Niro DE (2016–2022) — 4 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: G4LE (1.6L GDi Hybrid (Smartstream)). Typical issues affect Gearbox, HVAC, Electronics, Brakes.

Niro (G4LE, 2016–2022) — Stay Away!: Recall: clutch actuator short circuit and fire risk (PHEV), 6-speed DCT: judder and clutch wear, Carbon deposits on intake valves with direct injection. Power: 105 PS.

Niro (G4LE, 2017–2022) — Stay Away!: Recall: clutch actuator short circuit and fire risk (PHEV), 6-speed DCT: judder and clutch wear, Carbon deposits on intake valves with direct injection. Power: 105 PS.

What to watch out for with the Kia Niro? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Kia Niro DE have? +
The Kia Niro DE has 4 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Kia Niro DE? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: KIA-EV-64-NIRO (Elektro 64.8 kWh). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the KIA-EV-64-NIRO (Elektro 64.8 kWh). Problem engine: G4LE (1.6L GDi Hybrid (Smartstream)) — stay away!
Which Kia Niro DE engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Kia Niro DE — rated: "Decent". {description} 204 hp in the compact Niro EV — quick and practical for an electric SUV. Not exciting, but a convincing everyday car.
Is the Kia Niro DE worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Kia Niro DE — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Kia Niro DE? +
The Kia Niro DE is available with engine variants from 105 to 204 hp. Petrol: G4LE (1.6L GDi Hybrid (Smartstream)).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee