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@ Opel / Stellantis Media
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Kia Niro vs Vauxhall Frontera – Which one offers the better deal?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Kia Niro or Vauxhall Frontera?

Kia Niro

5 (1 Reviews)
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Vauxhall Frontera

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
Niro @ Kia Corporation

The Battle of the SUVs: Kia Niro Versus Vauxhall Frontera

In the dynamic world of SUVs, competition is fierce, and innovation is key to standing out. Today, we pit two noteworthy contenders against each other: the Kia Niro and the Vauxhall Frontera. Both vehicles have carved out their niches in the market, but how do they measure up against each other in 2025? Let's dive into the technical details, performance metrics, and innovative features that define these models.

Frontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Engine and Performance

The Kia Niro offers versatile powertrain options with its full hybrid and plug-in hybrid configurations. The power output ranges between 138 HP and 180 HP, with the electric range extending up to 62 kilometers for the plug-in hybrid variant. The Niro's dual-clutch automatic transmission ensures a smooth driving experience, while its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes between 9.9 and 11.4 seconds. A notable feature is the fuel consumption, which ranges from a frugal 2.4 to 4.9 L/100 km.

The Vauxhall Frontera takes a different approach with its electric and petrol mild-hybrid options. Featuring power outputs from 113 HP up to 145 HP, the Frontera offers an impressive electric range of up to 408 kilometers. Acceleration times range from 9 to 14.2 seconds for different models. The Frontera’s consumption metrics put its petrol variant at 5.2 L/100 km, while its electric counterparts deliver consumption rates between 15.8 and 18.2 kWh/100 km. With a dual-clutch automatic or reduction gearbox, the Frontera balances efficiency with performance.

Niro @ Kia Corporation

Dimensions and Design

The Kia Niro sports dimensions that highlight its compact SUV status, measuring 4,420 mm in length, 1,825 mm in width, and 1,545 mm in height. It promises a comfortable ride with seating for five and ample trunk space ranging from 348 to 451 liters. Its sleek design efficiently uses its interior space to maximize comfort and utility.

On the other hand, the Vauxhall Frontera measures at 4,385 mm in length, 1,795 mm in width, and 1,635 mm in height. The Frontera provides flexibility with seating options for five to seven passengers and a generous trunk capacity of 460 liters. Its higher stance offers a commanding view of the road, coupled with a more robust aesthetic.

Frontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Efficiency and Emissions

Efficiency has become a critical factor for modern vehicles, and both the Niro and the Frontera have leveraged advanced technologies to optimize fuel consumption. The Kia Niro boasts CO2 emissions as low as 53 g/km, thanks to its hybrid technology, placing it in the B to C CO2 efficiency classes.

Conversely, the Vauxhall Frontera delivers a remarkable zero-emission ride in its electric mode, classifying it under the A CO2 efficiency class for electric variants. However, its petrol version reaches emissions of up to 119 g/km, placing it in the D class.

Niro @ Kia Corporation

Innovative Features and Safety

Both vehicles come equipped with a range of modern safety and technological innovations. The Niro is known for its adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and an intuitive infotainment system that makes every journey convenient and safe.

The Frontera doesn't fall behind. It features advanced driver-assistance systems, including traffic sign recognition and autonomous emergency braking. Its high-tech cabin hosts a state-of-the-art infotainment system compatible with the latest connectivity options, ensuring both safety and comfort.

Frontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Conclusion

In this head-to-head comparison, the choice between the Kia Niro and the Vauxhall Frontera boils down to priorities. The Niro offers outstanding fuel efficiency in its hybrid form, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious drivers. Meanwhile, the Frontera presents an adaptable solution with its mix of electric range and seating flexibility, perfect for those looking for variety in powertrains and family-friendly features.

Whatever your preference, both the Kia Niro and the Vauxhall Frontera represent the future's face in the SUV segment, underscoring that innovation and efficiency are here to stay. Which one will you choose?

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Niro @ Kia Corporation

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Vauxhall Frontera has a significantly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 20500 £, while the Kia Niro costs 29100 £. That’s a price difference of around 8649 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Kia Niro manages with 2.40 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Vauxhall Frontera with 5.20 L. The difference is about 2.80 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Vauxhall Frontera performs convincingly better – achieving up to 408 km, about 346 km more than the Kia Niro.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Kia Niro has a somewhat edge – offering 180 HP compared to 145 HP. That’s roughly 35 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Vauxhall Frontera is slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 9 s, while the Kia Niro takes 9.90 s. That’s about 0.90 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Vauxhall Frontera performs slight better – reaching 194 km/h, while the Kia Niro tops out at 185 km/h. The difference is around 9 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Kia Niro pulls to a small extent stronger with 265 Nm compared to 230 Nm. That’s about 35 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Vauxhall Frontera offers distinct more seating capacity – 7 vs 5.

In curb weight, Vauxhall Frontera is minimal lighter – 1344 kg compared to 1474 kg. The difference is around 130 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Vauxhall Frontera offers slight more room – 460 L compared to 451 L. That’s a difference of about 9 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Vauxhall Frontera performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1600 L, which is about 155 L more than the Kia Niro.

When it comes to payload, Vauxhall Frontera noticeable takes the win – 644 kg compared to 466 kg. That’s a difference of about 178 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Vauxhall Frontera shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

Kia Niro
Vauxhall Frontera

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis
from about £20,500
Frontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Vauxhall Frontera

  • Engine Type : Electric, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 110 - 145 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.20 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 15.8 - 18.2 kWh
  • Electric Range : 305 - 408 km
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Kia Niro

5 (1 Reviews)
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The Kia Niro blends clever packaging and modern styling into a compact crossover that’s refreshingly sensible for daily life. It’s comfortable, economical and packed with user‑friendly tech, so if you want a fuss‑free family car with a touch of green credibility, the Niro is worth a test drive.

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Kia_Niro_HEV_08 @ Kia Corporation
Kia_Niro_HEV_24 @ Kia Corporation
Kia_Niro_HEV_22 @ Kia Corporation
Kia_Niro_HEV_05 @ Kia Corporation
Kia_Niro_HEV_13 @ Kia Corporation

Vauxhall Frontera

5 (1 Reviews)
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The Opel Frontera wears its rugged, go-anywhere intentions proudly, serving up a simple, no-nonsense package that feels as comfortable off the beaten track as it does at the supermarket. It won’t set hearts racing with glamour, but its honest practicality and rugged charm make it a smart pick for buyers who prefer substance over style.

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NeuerOpelFrontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media
NeuerOpelFrontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media
NeuerOpelFrontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Reviews Kia Niro

5 (1 Reviews)
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Reviews Opel Frontera

5 (1 Reviews)
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Niro @ Kia Corporation
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Costs and Consumption
Price
29100 - 38600 £
Price
20500 - 30000 £
Consumption L/100km
2.4 - 4.9 L
Consumption L/100km
5.20 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.8 - 18.2 kWh
Electric Range
57 - 62 km
Electric Range
305 - 408 km
Battery Capacity
1.3 - 11.1 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
53 - 111 g/km
co2
0 - 119 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
37 - 42 L
Fuel tank capacity
44 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5 - 7
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1474 - 1594 kg
Curb weight
1344 - 1610 kg
Trunk capacity
348 - 451 L
Trunk capacity
460 L
Length
4420 mm
Length
4385 mm
Width
1825 mm
Width
1795 mm
Height
1545 mm
Height
1635 mm
Max trunk capacity
1342 - 1445 L
Max trunk capacity
1600 L
Payload
466 kg
Payload
436 - 644 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
138 - 180 HP
Power HP
110 - 145 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.9 - 11.4 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9 - 14.2 s
Max Speed
170 - 185 km/h
Max Speed
143 - 194 km/h
Torque
265 Nm
Torque
125 - 230 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
102 - 132 kW
Power kW
81 - 107 kW
Engine capacity
1580 cm3
Engine capacity
1199 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D
Brand
Kia
Brand
Vauxhall

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Is the Kia Niro offered with different drivetrains?

The Kia Niro is available as Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.

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