@ Kia Corporation
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
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Kia Niro vs Toyota Corolla Cross – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Two cars, one duel: Kia Niro meets Toyota Corolla Cross.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

Niro @ Kia Corporation

A Clash of Compact SUVs: Kia Niro vs. Toyota Corolla Cross

When it comes to selecting a small SUV that delivers fuel efficiency, practicality, and innovative features, the Kia Niro and Toyota Corolla Cross are two top contenders. Both vehicles offer unique strengths that appeal to a diverse range of drivers. From powertrain options to interior space, this comparison delves into the core aspects of these two popular models for the 2024 and 2025 model years.

Corolla Cross @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Powertrain and Performance

For those considering eco-friendly driving, the Kia Niro shines with its dual offerings of a Full Hybrid and a Plug-in Hybrid engine. The Full Hybrid Niro offers a notable 129 HP, whereas the Plug-in Hybrid boosts the performance to 171 HP. The electric range for the Niro's Plug-in Hybrid model provides up to 65 km, thanks to its 11.1 kWh battery capacity. The Niro’s engines are paired with a Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission, designed to optimize energy and enhance driving smoothness.

In contrast, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers a Full Hybrid engine with two power outputs: 140 HP and an impressive 197 HP. The Corolla Cross achieves efficient fuel consumption, with figures around 5.1 to 5.3 L/100km, and it employs a CVT transmission that ensures seamless driving. Notably, the Corolla Cross comes with an option for either Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive, making it a versatile choice for diverse driving conditions.

Niro @ Kia Corporation

Dimension and Capacity

While both the Kia Niro and Toyota Corolla Cross are classified as compact SUVs, there are differences in their dimensions. The Kia Niro measures 4420 mm in length, 1825 mm in width, and 1545 mm in height. In comparison, the Corolla Cross is slightly longer and taller, with dimensions of 4460 mm in length, 1825 mm in width, and 1620 mm in height.

Storage and passenger capacity are critical factors for SUV buyers. The Kia Niro offers a trunk capacity of up to 451 liters, which reduces slightly for the Plug-in Hybrid variant. Meanwhile, the Toyota Corolla Cross provides a trunk capacity ranging from 414 to 425 liters, depending on the model configuration.

Corolla Cross @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

A key draw of both vehicles is their commitment to the environment through reduced emissions and improved fuel efficiency. The Kia Niro’s Plug-in Hybrid model stands out with a fuel consumption as low as 0.8 L/100km and impressively low CO2 emissions of 19 g/km. Its Full Hybrid sibling also offers a commendable figure of 4.4 L/100km with CO2 emissions around 100 g/km.

Similarly, the Toyota Corolla Cross displays strong environmental consciousness with CO2 emissions ranging from 114 to 121 g/km. The Corolla Cross’s fuel consumption sits at just 5.1 to 5.3 L/100km, further emphasizing its efficiency credentials.

Niro @ Kia Corporation

Trim and Comfort

Both the Kia Niro and Toyota Corolla Cross offer the comfort and convenience that modern drivers expect. Each model comfortably seats five passengers and provides a suite of technology-focused features. These include state-of-the-art infotainment systems and advanced driver-assistance systems aimed at enhancing safety and comfort on the road.

Corolla Cross @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Kia Niro and the Toyota Corolla Cross largely depends on individual preferences regarding performance, eco-friendliness, and specific feature requirements. The Kia Niro appeals to those prioritizing hybrid innovation and electric range, especially with its Plug-in Hybrid model. On the other hand, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers versatile drivetrain options and dynamic performance that might attract drivers with varying road conditions and lifestyle needs. Whichever model a driver selects, both the Niro and Corolla Cross promise to deliver on quality, efficiency, and the evolving demands of modern automotive consumers.

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.

Kia Niro has a slight advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29100 £, while the Toyota Corolla Cross costs 31700 £. That’s a price difference of around 2571 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Kia Niro manages with 2.40 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Toyota Corolla Cross with 4.90 L. The difference is about 2.50 L per 100 km.

Corolla Cross @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

Both models deliver identical power – 180 HP each.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Toyota Corolla Cross is distinct quicker – completing the sprint in 7.60 s, while the Kia Niro takes 9.90 s. That’s about 2.30 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Kia Niro performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 185 km/h, while the Toyota Corolla Cross tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 5 km/h.

Niro @ Kia Corporation

Space and Everyday Use:

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

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Toyota Corolla Cross is minimal lighter – 1380 kg compared to 1474 kg. The difference is around 94 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Kia Niro offers slight more room – 451 L compared to 425 L. That’s a difference of about 26 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Kia Niro performs barely noticeable better – up to 1445 L, which is about 108 L more than the Toyota Corolla Cross.

When it comes to payload, Toyota Corolla Cross to a small extent takes the win – 560 kg compared to 466 kg. That’s a difference of about 94 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Kia Niro shows itself to be dominates this comparison 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.

from about £29,100
Niro @ Kia Corporation

Kia Niro

  • Engine Type : Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 138 - 180 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.4 - 4.9 L
  • Electric Range : 57 - 62 km

Kia Niro

5 (1)
rate

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.

details

Toyota Corolla Cross

5 (2)
rate

The Toyota Corolla Cross takes the familiar Corolla recipe, lifts it up and dresses it in SUV clothes — sensible, comfortable and blessedly unflashy. It won’t thrill the enthusiast, but its easy manners, clever packaging and dependable feel make it an ideal everyday car for shoppers who prefer sense over sass.

details
Kia Niro
Toyota Corolla Cross
Niro @ Kia Corporation
Corolla Cross @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Costs and Consumption

Price
29100 - 38600 £
Price
31700 - 41900 £
Consumption L/100km
2.4 - 4.9 L
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 5.3 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
57 - 62 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
1.3 - 11.1 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
53 - 111 g/km
co2
112 - 120 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
37 - 42 L
Fuel tank capacity
36 - 43 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1474 - 1594 kg
Curb weight
1380 - 1500 kg
Trunk capacity
348 - 451 L
Trunk capacity
414 - 425 L
Length
4420 mm
Length
4460 mm
Width
1825 mm
Width
1825 mm
Height
1545 mm
Height
1620 mm
Max trunk capacity
1342 - 1445 L
Max trunk capacity
1333 - 1337 L
Payload
466 kg
Payload
515 - 560 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
138 - 180 HP
Power HP
140 - 180 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.9 - 11.4 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 10 s
Max Speed
170 - 185 km/h
Max Speed
170 - 180 km/h
Torque
265 Nm
Torque
-
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
102 - 132 kW
Power kW
103 - 132 kW
Engine capacity
1580 cm3
Engine capacity
1798 - 1987 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D
Brand
Kia
Brand
Toyota
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.