Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid Crossover SUV Winner- Next Green Car Awards 2017

Kia's Niro was initially launched as a conventional hybrid, and was commended in 2016's NGC Awards. This year's Niro Plug-In goes one better and takes the title, with the PHEV powertrain pushing it into first place in a very competitive sector. The family crossover's official economy statistics of 29 g/km CO2, 36 mile electric range, and 217 MPG (weighted combined) are better than a lot of other models on the market, and the Niro's stylish exterior typifies the Kia brand at the moment - smart, efficient, and excellent value for money. Running costs will be very low thanks to the excellent electric range, and the Niro Plug-In is an easy-to-drive but frugal family crossover. Priced from £27,995 (including Category 2 OLEV grant).

NGC verdict: "Kia is one of the market leaders in terms of PHEV electric range, and the Niro Plug-In Hybrid benefits from this focus. Throw in the fact that the PHEV technology is wrapped up in practical crossover packaging, and the Niro Plug-In Hybrid is expected to quickly climb the electric vehicle sales charts."

COMMENDED: Mini Countryman Cooper S E ALL4

Mini's first production plug-in vehicle is a good 'un, with the latest Countryman offering some excellent foundations for the PHEV powertrain to perform. And perform it does, with proven electric technology from BMW creating a very capable PHEV. Official CO2 emissions are quoted at 49 g/km CO2, with an electric range of 26 miles, and a weighted combined fuel economy figure of 135 MPG, the Mini performs admirably as a PHEV. Add in Mini's strengths in driving dynamics and design, and the Countryman Cooper S E All4 attributes stack up to make an attractive plug-in family crossover. Priced from £29,075 (including Category 2 OLEV grant).

Executive Awards 2017 > >