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Kia · Compact SUV · 2022–2024

Kia Niro SG2

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

The Kia Niro SG2 is available with 3 engine variants — from 105 to 204 hp.

1.6 HEV · Benziner Hybrid· 141 PS
2022 2024
Stay Away! 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.6 PHEV · Benziner Plug-in-Hybrid· 191 PS
2022 2024
Stay Away! 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
EV 64.8 kWh · Elektro· 204 PS
2022 2024
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 EV 64.8 kWh (Elektro, 204 PS) has the KIA-EV-64-NIRO (Elektro 64.8 kWh) — rated: "Be Careful".

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Total infotainment failure — AVN unit faulty

Multiple Niro SG2 owners report a complete infotainment system failure. The cause is either a blown fuse (module 2, 10A) or a faulty AVN unit requiring replacement at approximately €1,857.

Symptoms: Screen goes black; radio, reversing camera, navigation and volume all stop working; sometimes triggered by the USB port.
from 50,000 km
Ad Kia Niro SG2 AVN EinheitKia Niro SG2 Infotainment control unit
 Medium
!Charge port — connector doesn't latch reliably

On some Niro SG2 EV models, the charging plug doesn't latch securely. At HPC fast-charge stations the plug must be inserted with slight pressure. In individual cases the charge port cover or actuator needed replacement.

Symptoms: Charging cable won't click in properly; charge port flap doesn't open; charging station doesn't recognise vehicle.
from 30,000 km
Ad Kia Niro SG2 Ladeport actuatorKia Niro SG2 Ladeport Klappe
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
64 complaints · 2022–2024
Other
19 ⚠ 5
Electrical
17 ⚠ 2
Brakes
10 ⚠ 3
Airbags
9 ⚠ 5
Collision Avoidance
9 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Other (19 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (17 complaints)
⚠ Brakes (10 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the Kia Niro SG2 (2022–2024) — 4 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. One problem engine: G4LE (1.6L GDi Hybrid (Smartstream)). Typical issues affect Electronics, Brakes, HVAC, Suspension.

Niro (G4LE, 2022–2024) — 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, 2022–2024) — 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 SG2 have? +
The Kia Niro SG2 has 4 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Kia Niro SG2? +
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 SG2 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Kia Niro SG2 — 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 SG2 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Kia Niro SG2 — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Kia Niro SG2? +
The Kia Niro SG2 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