Sandy "Lost It" Over THIS Design Choice | 2023 Kia Niro First Impressions

Sandy and Scott give their first impressions of the 2023 Kia Niro.
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#Kia #Niro #EV

[@jasongooden917]

As a wheelchair user, I disagree with one thing. You need that handle above the door to help sit down when your legs are weak

[@BillyBob-fd5ht]

I never knew that until my partner had a stroke and wow it is a lifesaver for anyone with a disability

[@jamesr3505]

Does it make sense to build millions of cars with a feature used by thousands of people?

[@deansmits006]

@@jamesr3505 Absolutely. People with weak legs are not second class citizens

[@jamesr3505]

@@deansmits006 Sigh. People need to understand the way economics is supposed to structure society. If you save hundreds of millions of dollars on a particular car component, some of that reduces the cost of the vehicle to everyone, and some of it can be used to subsidized the increased requirements specifically for people with disabilities. This sort of myopic selfish thinking makes everyone worse off. I have a learning disability. I am happy that they make special programs and materials for people like me. But I don’t think society should incur the monumental expense of changing how education works for the 99% of people who don’t have my disability. It’s more efficient to treat me as a special case, and everyone is better off.

[@jamesengland7461]

Perhaps that grab on the seat works just as well? But yes, I see your point.

[@paintedpony2935]

The overhead grab handle is MANDATORY for disabled and/or elderly. Just try to shift your hips using only the seat back grab handle --without hurting yourself.

[@rolla2035]

People also use those for coat / shirt hangers

[@2cartalkers]

why can't people just roll around in the car?

[@robertbigler7743]

Yeah... Sandy will be old enough to need one of those pretty soon.

[@SteveLinGuitar]

I saw a cool DIY for fishing rods -- wrapping bungee cords around those overhead grab handles and twisting them to create "pockets" for the fishing rods to sit nicely up overhead. And yes, for the disabled and elderly. And hanging clothes. Keep them!

[@pjmorgan]

The C-pillar pass through is to prevent the airflow from delaminating at the rear of the car and is an important aerodynamic feature. It’s not for anything to do with cooling.

[@MolloRelax]

Ya....cooling the LEDs is the last thing I was thinking about the purpose of that air flow allowance.

[@peterjorgensen3]

That "Charge port adapter" is the vehicle to load adapter. That thing is awesome.

[@Stefan_Dahn]

2:40 The problem with front mounted chargeports is: - They get iced in winter while driving - At little front crash and the chargeport is wrecked. So you are stuck and can't drive anymore.

[@mikepetersen5024]

Your absolutely right. It doesn't make sense in the front middle.

[@carlarrowsmith]

If I lived in a cold climate I'd agree but I've found front mounted on the Leaf very useful, so much easier just driving in. I'd do front every time is there was a choice. The crash stuff is totally worthless argument, could have a crash anywhere.

[@appleiphone69]

I agree, front charge ports is a bad location. If you get backed into or hit something, it’s toast.

[@zachlafond2652]

Bjorn Nyland who has tested them all seems to like the Tesla placement the best so i'll go with what he says.

[@markussavolainen]

@@carlarrowsmith 3/5 most common crash types are: rear-end collision( generally includes one front end), single car(if you drive into something there's like 50% chance your front end takes the hit) and t-bone( which again involves at least one front end)... Gee, it sure seems like front end damage in crash situations is very rare and unlikely occurrence.

[@MrAdopado]

The vent is for aero benefit not for cooling LEDs ... goodness, most modern cars could do with warmer lights to clear the condensation that plagues many of the units. You could cook your dinner on halogen lights but not LEDs!

[@seb.]

Yup, sometime I doubt Sandy is really engineer...

[@davidjulian8536]

@@seb. He comes out with some strange statements sometimes.

[@MolloRelax]

maybe the vent helps preventing...or at least diminishing snow accumulation in the rear window

[@andys31337]

LEDs need to be stopped from overheating as it reduces lifespan. My car came with factory LED headlights with active cooling (small fans). (edit: but this is for headlights, not for brakes, which are much less power!)

[@richardclary2903]

Maybe do a search for taillights overheating and you may agree with Sandy.

[@Timo-qb1gf]

"Cooling the LEDs" Come on Sandy. Its clearly aerodynamic for vortex / drag reductiong....

[@zachlafond2652]

had no idea what he was talking about.i hope he was joking.

[@Stefan_Dahn]

@@zachlafond2652 Metoo. 😉

[@cdoublejj]

@@zachlafond2652 he was! I doubt it gives jch aero boost either hece the joke

[@papa.mike01]

Sandy’s sense of humor for sure. 😂

[@patreekotime4578]

Grab handle on the liftgate really helps alot of people who cant reach the top.... because you can tie a bit of rope to it. Its also great to have if you have an oversized load and need to tie it down. The grab handles in the back seats are great for when you have coats, dresses or suits that need to hang up. These are multifunctional parts. When automakers start making them go away, people will find their vehicles much less useful. Sometimes I wonder if Sandy even understands the needs of a single-car family or people with disabilities.

[@jamesvandamme7786]

I wish I'd thought of that when tying an Xmas tree to the roof of a Subaru last week. There was a roof rail, but NO PLACE to secure a rope so it wouldn't slide. Utility vehicle, my ass.

[@patreekotime4578]

@@jamesvandamme7786 Hey, at least it had rails, so many "utility" vehicles dont now. We are really in the silliest era of vehicles right now.

[@mangoginger8924]

When you have the model that Sandy was showing - the Lift Gate is adjustable. You pull the gate down to where your comfortable and press the the button next to the handle for about 3 seconds and it will make a sound. Now the lift gate will always come back to that position.

[@wobby1516]

A frunk even a small one like on the Kia is still useful. I keep the charge cables in it and that’s great as when the trunk is full I can still access the cables. As for the two tone I agree with Sandy, but then that’s not a bad point as it’s an option that some will like, we can’t all have the same tastes.

[@andrewt9204]

I use mine to keep a spray bottle of washer fluid and a small squeegee since most charge locations don't have them available.

[@frankluttels294]

Same to me, put an aftermarket frunk into my Hyundai Kona EV, perfect for the charge cables.

[@williamp5119]

@@frankluttels294 same. travel charger, first aid kit, road hazard kit, and the lipo jump pack

[@enockheewonyoon1001]

I have some rationals on the handle for the lift gate and the silencer installed hood. Not all trims have the power lift gate and the hood is shared among HEV Niro as well. So, instead of designing more parts (no handled liftgate and no silencer but sealed hood) and more parts to configuration-controlled, they may have figured it it is more cost saving to have the commonality design although may not perfectly make sense in HEV or EV.

[@barrydaugherty5528]

“Somebody needs to get a spanking!” 😂. So funny when Sandy gets riled up!

[@wkearney99]

meh, he's coming across more and more like a grouchy old man. the kind that screams at kids to get off his lawn. it's not a good look.

[@chunkychuck]

Disagree about the hatch handle. It's what I always use and would be annoyed without it. They originally didn't have a frunk but people always want one and people even made aftermarket kits. The "charge port adapter" in the trunk is an electrical socket :)

[@MrAdopado]

... for vehicle to load.

[@robertbigler7743]

I agree... And I don't know why a motorized hatch is important. Just another feature to break and need repair. Adds more cost and weight.

[@seb.]

And cheaper trim may not be motorized, having a different part would likely be more expensive than sparing that handle.

[@rcjbvermilion]

Other advantage of an internal handle - you don't get your hands as dirty if the exterior is dirty.

[@robinrutschman]

Wow, what a team! My two favorite presenters. Please more videos like this!

[@QALibrary]

I am learning more and more when it comes to any design and manufacture by watching Sand and the team - thank you for your videos - it is a shame these videos were not around in the 1980s when I was part of a design team and if I was head of HR I make all the designers/accountants etc watch all your videos as mandatory training

[@alanrogers7090]

Sandy said that the grab handles over the doors, 'can go. I've never seen a need for these". Well, we use them all the time to help get out of our car, as both myself and my wife have compromised mobility. We call them our, "Oh, shit handles". As we age and lose even more mobility, they are indispensable.

[@daves1646]

Scott and Sandy - thank you for the quick look and critique. Please DO recommend that KN rework the under hood treatment, closing off the no-access needed areas and enlarging the front storage with a simple closure and more space. As an EV (at EV price …) have decent under hood appearance and useful storage up there, please. Some functions proposed for features in Niro -Rear quarter air inlets - dissipate neg pressure behind hatch at speed (eco). They are body-color in the Wind trim, thankfully -Back of front seat - can hang coat over it too. Is a nice grab point @ entry. See the USB C’s on each front seat? Pricey but useful

[@mec7568]

The first thing to delete should be the auto opening struts and hardware for the rear hatch. The cost and extra weight is not worth it. With the right balance and gas struts, opening and closing a hatch is no different than any other door.

[@paddle_shift]

Sandy, great content as always, but stop saying "I wouldn't want this, it should go". Those over door pull handles are used by many disabled and senior citizens. That pull handle on the front seat is a good idea but would not help exiting.

[@seb.]

Front seat isn't a pull handle, it's a coat hanger

[@blackthorncane1841]

Charge port adapter? Aero ducts to cool the rear LEDs? You fellas have no idea what's going on.

[@barryscott6222]

Sandy - the reason for the grab handles in the back(roof) is for older people to help them exit the vehicle. Frankly, I am not that old and yet I appreciate that, to help lever me out the door.

[@scottwills4698]

The vents at the rear are to reduce drag - they stop the air pulling in behind the car and its not a charge port adaptor its Vehicle to load.

[@Stefan_Dahn]

5:25 "Cools the LEDs" - Are you serious or just kidding?

[@MrAdopado]

He lost the plot on that one!

[@Danne89]

So many errors in this video.

[@amsterdamtinus8456]

Frunk is nice for the charge cable, wish I had in my Niro 2022

[@nfwolfpryde]

Something I wish they'd do with Frunks, they need to insulate them. What Sandy is recommending is great on reducing cost, but here in Texas, I can't use my Model 3 frunk because things melt inside it. I've had bike helmets and bags get scorches on them from sitting in the frunk. Using the hood as a lid is the reason for this.

[@CHMichael]

I'm surprised no one is making a "cooler " insert. Hooking it up to the ac would be great.

[@pablopicaro7649]

Insulation only SLOWS heat from coming in, not eliminate it. So Active cooling/heating would be needed to keep it from eventually becoming into a weber grill

[@nfwolfpryde]

@@pablopicaro7649 I'm not looking for a refrigerator, but if I could drive into town without destroying the contents of my frunk that'd be swell.

[@Stefan_Dahn]

@@nfwolfpryde Get a white car. 😁😉

[@jamesk4005]

It is interesting to note that they didn't talk about the vehicle to load feature ( at 6:44 in video )which allows the Niro to provide 120/240 (?) volt power to your home in a utility power outage. It would be enough to keep your refrigerator running, also furnace/boiler and maybe a well pump and of course all your lighting and computers. The Tesla power wall is 14Kwh and it is automatic, so not directly compatible. A standby generator might be because not all of them are automatic. the kia battery is 64Kwh so even if it is not fully charged it could carry a lot of house's over a few days on grid power. one would need to adjust but it u=is better than a freezing house. I think that plug is has a value that south be worth $ 5,000-10,000. Think Texas black out. A ford lightning would be better, but that is upwards of $ 70,000

[@eugeneputin1858]

You are right. I think this is the coolest feature of all time. What I want to know is the vampire drain when connected.

[@pnketia]

I noticed that too!. Scott opened the case and just put it back without stating the vehicle to grid aspects.

[@seb.]

They most likely didn't know what it was for 😏 As often, they don't RTFM... for engineers, it's disappointing

[@Stefan_Dahn]

Yeah, a 3 kW one phase inverter hooked to the HV battery costs 70 €/$ per piece from Aliexpress. People put this in their DIY ICE-to-EV car conversions.

[@ZipZoomZip]

I don't know, if my power is out, I probably don't want to draw down my car's battery without knowing when the power is going to return.

[@tesla_tap]

Charge port door in the front means you'll get messy bug goo on your hands every time you open it in the summer. Might also be hard to open when snow and ice build up in the front after a snowy drive. When charging in your garage it also seems like a bad place where you have to trip over the wire as you move in front of the car. Seems like the worst place to stick the charge port. Far better is driver's side rear IMHO!

[@TeodorSpiridon]

It really depends on your setup. Some folks can't charge at home and for public chargers, the front position is great since you pull into a parking spot and the charger is on the end, not the side like a gas station. But your point is well made in that for some folks who home charge, the placement on the side might make more sense. We have a PHEV and the side placement is perfect based on where the charger cord plugs in.

[@terryfelton2208]

I'm fine with the front charge port. We have a Leaf and a PHEV with the port in front of the driver side door. I just looped the cable over a hook in the ceiling, and it'll reach either car, and never drags on the floor.

[@jaredscott4829]

Why are you touching it? Does it not just open like a Tesla?

[@philipk89]

Also, I’ve had trouble charging once or twice due to water spray somehow making it into the charge port and causing an earthing failure (and refusal to charge as a result). It’s nice when it works but definitely not the best place.

[@tesla_tap]

@@jaredscott4829 I don't know if it has a push to open or automatic open. Most lower cost cars are push to open. Many are also push to close. Tesla and the Taycan both electrically open and close.

[@nihongobenkyoshimasu3190]

14:00 The frunk is mostly desined to hold the AC charging cord used in some markets.

[@deansmits006]

I love the idea of Kia/Hyundai small frunks. It's essentially a glove box, for rarely used items or emergency items. Hopefully they make room for a larger one in the future

[@charleshaggard4341]

Scott and Sandy do a great job together. Pretty entertaining.

[@barryscott6222]

Yeah, good job Scott, you are good at this. LOL, the hair do and moustache, are a bit Magnum PI though...

[@B.Evil.C]

No comments on the bolts but the frunk is big enough to hold all the charging cables and the adapter on the E-Niro. Definitely not pointless with the charging point at the front.

[@djr3485]

Insulation under the hood and on the firewall reduce NVH. Think road noise, tyre noise, compressor noise etc.

[@magnuslarsson337]

You love the idea of a grabbing area on the back of the chairs until it splits your head open in a medium-high-speed crash 😱

[@getoffamylan6844]

That's a good point; I wonder how that will turn out over time.

[@bikeaddictbp]

That was my thought, too. What happens in a frontal collision when someone whacks their head on that?

[@seb.]

If your head goes that far, the belt didn't work 😉. But this seat's back shape is for your vest, not for people to seat.

[@jamesvandamme7786]

It's the Darwin solution for people who don't buckle up

[@hunternewberry5860]

Seatbelt prevents that my guy

[@ivantuma7969]

The vehicle isn't my cup of tea - but someone's just having a grumpy day ... especially when you start criticizing sound insulation (on a multi-drivetrain platform) and Jeeezus handles - which have always been a must-have for me (I even like them above the drivers door).

[@georgepelton5645]

That “charge port adapter” actually is the V2L adapter, allowing the car to power 120 V appliances. I wish my Tesla had this, to power my fridge during power outages.

[@parkdcp]

That's an air bag in the back of the front seat! That's the reason for the "crack" that Sandy is complaining about. As for the handle, that's where I hang my wardrobe!

[@Clark-Mills]

Nice team; Scott slots in beautifully! Well done guys.

[@ScrapKing73]

He talked about a bunch of minor details, but didn’t once discuss vehicle-to-load (V2L), which is going to be a huge feature for a lot of people? That’s going to be a bigger driver of cost than the silencer, I bet. My next EV will have V2L at a minimum, if not vehicle-to-home. Power grids do go down from time to time, unfortunately! They did show the adaptor, but then didn’t explain what it is.

[@benjaminnead8557]

My thoughts exactly. I now carry around a small LFP solar generator and a small 120V thermos to boil water for coffee. Would I like it if I could just plug this - and more - directly into the car? You bet!

[@flabbo200]

The box in hood is great to store the charging cable, I whish I have that on my id3. Probably the handle on the back is for the models that does not have the power lid.

[@droopy992001]

I always use my trunk grab handle because I do not want fingerprints on the outside lip, and I find power trunk lid closing silly (except for folks with a disability) - a waste of complexity and weight for a simple physical activity. Let's avoid Wall-E. Every time I am on a plane and the person behind me uses my seat as leverage to stand up, I am annoyed. I would not be any happier for this in my car.

[@desparky]

That front hood/frunk storage space??? I really don't understand why some EV manufacturers seem to miss this opportunity. Not only could they make a lot more cargo room by simply re-packaging, but why have a lid under a lid (hood). Crazy.

[@JakesOnline]

You guys skipped over one of best features of this car. That "charge port adapter" is the vehicle to load connector. 🔋⚡ 🔌

[@benjaminnead8557]

Yeah, I'm surprised this was not tested or even properly acknowledged as something we're now seeing on the newer Korean EVs and (presumably soon) lower priced Chinese EVs imported into the US. With so much emphasis on things like panel gaps and 19" touchscreens, I'm surprised more aren't speaking louder in insisting that this finally be a standard feature on any new EV.

[@farmered4232]

Scott and Sandy are a great pairing. I love that Sandy can share genuinely interesting insights while having near perfect timing on his goofs. The piano black line got me 😂

[@baud4123]

i beg to differ on the bolt-on pull handle for the hatch. when you have snowy winter ans slushy back end, you'd rather put your hand where it is not filthy with dirty slush and snow.

[@bextar6365]

Handle is a great feature, I have no button so the handle works just fine ....

[@Conservator.]

6:42 That’s not a charge port adapter that’s a 120V outlet! (230V in most countries)

[@Stefan_Dahn]

A RTFM moment.

[@Conservator.]

@@Stefan_Dahn 👌

[@Pikminiman]

For the record, my grandpa and I both really wish his Model Y had overhead grab handles above the doorways.

[@ulamss5]

Holy cow, has Sandy been evaluating cars/builds all these years with the idea that LEDs require dedicated cooling?

[@jamesvandamme7786]

Headlights do. But he's not too familiar with these newfangled LED gadgets.

[@rafffe]

When the power goes up, they do need cooling for better lifespan.

[@fulano1969]

He seems to lack knowledge in some areas. Gives some really stupid "advice" sometimes.

[@paintedpony2935]

Your arrogance is exceeded only by your ignorance. Do LED bulbs need ventilation? Google it before putting down people more intelligent and experienced than you. Yes, as long as the fixture does not have a rubber gasket. LED bulbs need ventilation and a rubber gasket would prevent proper ventilation.

[@themonsterunderyourbed9408]

Large LEDs absolutely need some kind of cooling. They get hot and will fail because of heat. In small LEDs, whatever houses them usually acts as an adequate heatsink.

[@genzigzag]

Uncle Sandy, I believe the lip on the back of the front seat was designed to hang a coat or a bag on. I wonder if ithe seats anchor bolts will loosen from rear passengers using it for leverage to egress the vehicle.

[@jaime9014]

I purchased this exactly same Niro a week ago and I LOVE IT. Grandpa stop talking BS about my car.

[@pnketia]

Well despite the under hood stuff you commented on I give them kudos for using hood struts instead of a prop rod.

[@sns1804]

the grab handle on the trunk lid is for shorter people who can't reach the button. Also, to use to rope close the trunk lid for objects that extend beyond the trunk door. I hope in the future, the front passenger seat can fold down to fit long pieces of lumber and what not.

[@deansmits006]

Yeah, I think Sandy may be getting out of touch. Being in the industry so long, you think he'd realize some of these things

[@stickdownman]

Its also a carry over from the lower trim which afaik does not have the powered liftgate

[@jamesengland7461]

The handle is directly next to the button.

[@jamesengland7461]

The handle is directly next to the button.

[@bextar6365]

@@deansmits006 Yes he sure is out of touch before he does reviews !!!

[@xxwookey]

Surely that side-vent is primarily for aerodynamics, not cooling the lights? I presume a jet like that will help shrink the size of the turbulent area coming off the back of the car.

[@oceanfroggie]

Grab handles helpful for folks with poor mobility to get out of car, and most importantly provide hanging hooks for cloths, jacket, suit, etc. Super efficient for a converted ICE platform, amazing warranty and nippy.

[@by9917]

LEDs get kinda warm, really? Sure for hi intensity, but for the bulbs they are replacing, LED put out far less heat and the previously used bulbs didn't need a vent.

[@MrAdopado]

Yes he was making it up as he went along ... and he was wrong ... the slots are for aero benefit and nothing to do with cooling LEDs.

[@bextar6365]

@@MrAdopado Time to retire !

[@robjk]

I disagree that the front location of the charging port is ideal. When charging from home in my garage, the front of the vehicle is inaccessible. The rear left or right is accessible. The front location is probably better when pulling into a commercial charger, but that accounts for less than 1% of my charging.

[@magnuslarsson337]

But if you reverse into your garage using the rear + side cameras/mirrors, it won't be a problem, and it's also easier. But a minor fender bender and you won't be able to use your car once it runs out of juice, that's a problem.

[@bikeaddictbp]

Front left fender just ahead of the door seems to be the choice of GM and Ford, and that works for me. If you're towing a trailer, anywhere on the rear is going to mean unhitching the trailer to charge the tow vehicle unless you happen to find a (rare in North America) pull-through charging station. Yes, it's not likely to be much of an issue for a vehicle in this size class, but I don't see how front left fender will be a problem.

[@thomaswilson2917]

Same for me. Front is not accessible when parked in garage. No issue with right rear on my Tesla.

[@Danne89]

In some places the front is COVERED in dirt and snow this time of the year. Front location is horrible.

[@thomaswilson2917]

@@Danne89 how about a sheet of ice

[@EnmandsBand1]

I'm sorry, that was not a serious review it was just a random Sandy rant! 6:44 NOT a chargeport adaptor, it's a really cool 110 volt power outlet, you even have one inside the car. I just bought one and I absolutely love it and I find myself disagreing with just about everything Sandy said 😀it replaced my Ioniq 28 kWh and is a huge upgrade in all areas except efficiency.

[@larryschweitzer4904]

I'm with Sandy on design/function But sales are driven by "features." I can't understand why they would design a car to support 3 different powertrain systems. Too many compromises.

[@deansmits006]

Cost. If you can create more sales out of a single platform instead of spending more development $, it has its advantages.

[@Stefan_Dahn]

Management "strategy" after sitting on their hands too long a.k.a. panic. 😉

[@jamesvandamme7786]

They built an all electric and it looks like the future. This looks like a compliance car.

[@therolando608]

Drove this exact model and trim this weekend and loved it. The problem is the price isn't justified given the competition. This exact model they were asking $53k for.

[@seb.]

What other EV have the same battery/efficiency at this price?

[@therolando608]

@@seb. Bolt EUV and EV are significantly cheaper with the same range. ID4 is around the same price as well. I could never justify paying $50k for this when I could get an EV6 for another couple thousand

[@Stefan_Dahn]

@@seb. Model 3, Model Y

[@protovack]

thats what i paid for my EV6 Wind AWD

[@hobbykip]

I'd rather have a small frunk than no frunk at all. Put your charging cables in it and you never have to dig for that stuff onder the trunk bed... Love my i3 for that small frunk :-)

[@BeepasGarage]

The pull handle is there because not all trim levels have automated lift gates.. like in my Ioniq 5. It would cost more to create a new mold for a handless trim piece, and differentiate the two trim pieces more than just a cut out for that button.

[@rhiantaylor3446]

Surely the part in the back described as a "charge adapter" was actually how you access the Vehicle to Load feature which is a real differentiator for Kia/Hyundai.

[@koeniglicher]

13:30 - "Piano-black should be reserved for --- pianos." A new Sandy Munro classic. 😀

[@maxsec2]

@6:28 the adaptor is for vehicle to load (v2l) so you can run your normal ac kit when camping etc from the main battery

[@danapeck5382]

Perfect content, why I subscribe, much appreciated

[@TheRocky3211]

Glossed over the vehicle to load capability, calling it a charging adapter in the trunk .

[@viralvidz7582]

Best ever EV Kia I love it and the price is the best and a teas for American brands 👍👍👏👏👌👌🤜

[@Firestorm637]

So agree with you with 2 drive systems PHEV. PHEV was around with the 80 mile leaf. Now we have 300-500 mile range EV’s. No need PHEV.

[@tradersato]

The handle above you is always available and in the same place. A grab handle on the rear of the seat can be way up front or anywhere in between, making it a moving target. And also not ergonomic for those with less grab strength

[@disconnectpub]

Love Sandy’s great articulate criticism.

[@thomassimmer5186]

Why do you like the connector in the front. Wont this cause more damage with slight fender benders?

[@Firestorm637]

I like it with the BLADE LOOK of the Audi R8. Also love the front. So many vehicles look the same from the front. Tesla and Porsche definitely look different and easy recognizable from the front

[@deansmits006]

Exactly. Seen it on Chiron, as well as the roof rail of the Saturn Ion. It's simply a design choice some love

[@seb.]

Or the Smart fortwo 😉

[@markreed9853]

This froot space in Europe is used for charging cables, type 2 and granny leads!

[@jimjimgl3]

I was so impressed by the new logo design that I looked up who was responsible and it is a design firm in Munich named Blackspace. (and I bought a Niro a month ago).

[@MrAdopado]

Sandy is obsessed with his idea that it's a waste of time having a handle inside the tailgate of a hatchback! OK make it minimal but please don't make me get my hands filthy closing the damned thing in the rain and mud. And yes, auto closing tailgates frequently end up needing a helping hand so don't tell me to touch a button. In fact if you want to champion cost savings why not point out how much it costs to install powered trunk or tailgates ... just so you can stand watching whilst the thing slowly opens and slowly closes ... sheesh, I could open it and throw in my stuff and close it again before these powered options are halfway open!

[@jamesengland7461]

They could've integrated a lip or handle into the panel instead of a separate, bolted on handle.

[@TennisGvy]

His issue is that it's a *bolt-on* handle with a redundant button. No reason to have a separate part + bolts.

[@jamesvandamme7786]

The latest folly is having the motor and strut be one unit. How much will those cost to replace? No thanks, I like my Focus, has 2 molded in handles. Wife's CX-5 has only one. I would have paid the extra ten cents to have a left side one too.

[@godofdun]

I kind of agree, just cause it makes sense to you as the manufacturer to remove something doesn't mean that removing it doesn't leave me, the actual consumer, with less.

[@andrewt9204]

I do agree, but I do like having a power closing trunk when I'm carrying something inside. If my hands are completely full I don't have to go back out and close it. But I would be fine without it too.

[@shahbazfawbush]

It is a lady filming our two here... I saw reflection of the shoes in the charger port.

[@EVevals]

Thanks guys for the walk through on this car. We test drove it a month ago. I get some design choices are not for everyone one but I like Kia’s new boldness. It reminds me of the Audi R8 blade that was so controversial when it came out.

[@abraxastulammo9940]

8:42 You love it as long as nobody brakes hard or crashes... and you break your nose or poke your eye on this intrusive thing.

[@treborheminway3814]

Once that seat is back all the way, that thing is going to be right in your face. I'd rather not have a big plastic lump to smash out my teeth in a wreak.

[@Stefan_Dahn]

Just use seat belts. Otherwise, in are real crash, you,ll be flying out of a window. Then you're not worrying about nose, eye nor teeth. Seen that and you won't like to fly out a windows and get rolled over by your own car while going down the ditch.

[@treborheminway3814]

@@Stefan_Dahn you've never been in a bad wreak. Your face will hit that if the seat is back and you're not using a four point harness.

[@WhodatIzz]

8:37 - That grab handle seat back... I really love the comment that your body uses it before your brain thinks about it. That is the perfection of ergonomics. BUT.. it looks like it needs an air-bag in a forward collision. Maybe the curtains or the seat-belt, or the angle means your head misses it.. but seeing the guys in there it looks like it's aimed right at someone's nose in a crash.

[@seb.]

Or you just wear the seat belt 😉

[@Danne89]

How would you head ever hit the front seats unless you're a giraffe? You don't wear seatbelt? Then you're dead anyways and also the guy in front of you.

[@samijokinen9246]

Eh, if you don't use that inner rear door handle that doesn't get dirty, its up to you. I like to keep my hands clean. They may use same mold for powered rear door and lower trim level non powered model. Just my thoughts again.

[@shahbazfawbush]

That seat back grab handle will teach your face new geometries in a sudden deceleration scenario...

[@macvos]

Wear a seatbelt

[@MrBadgas]

Crushed it again boys! Sandy, you were on fire.🔥

[@gisobo]

Regarding the Tesla connector: It could replace Type1+CCS or even CHAdeMO but not Type2+CCS since it supports single phase/split passe only. So you could replace the port in north America but still leave room in the design for other car variants with Type2 or GB/T.

[@AndreBockelie]

As long as I can fit the charging cables in the fronk I want it. Having it under everything in the back is stupid.

[@markplott4820]

the BEST charger, is NO charger in the FIRST place.

[@AndreBockelie]

@@markplott4820 Yea, ofc. Can't wait until all cars has wireless charging.

[@Stefan_Dahn]

@@AndreBockelie You can wait, as this will never come to mass production. To expensive. To inefficient.

[@AndreBockelie]

@@Stefan_Dahn They said the same about the EV. Today there are no difference between cable and wireless when it comes to charging losses. And it makes sense to use it for bus and taxi today, as it reduce the need of a big battery.

[@macvos]

@@AndreBockelie both physics and actual measurements on phone chargers seem to disagree with you. The difference in charging speed and efficiency is massive.

[@jbarvideo12]

Nice short summary of the 2023 Kia Niro by Sandy and Scott

[@MunroLive]

Thanks for watching!

[@gundalfx]

Yeah I suppose for the US market the CCS port doesn't make so much sense while in Europe we have a lot of AC Level 2 charging in metro areas and even around small town centers.

[@Stefan_Dahn]

@@seb. Sure it does.

[@seb.]

@@Stefan_Dahn thanks! indeed it will 4.6.1 _The North American Charging Standard is compatible with Vehicle to X (i.e. Vehicle to load, Vehicle to home, vehicle to grid) power transfer. Future versions of this technical specification will specify the functional requirements and specifications required to achieve vehicle to X power transfer._

[@MarkXHolland]

LED lights don't get hot. At least not hot enough to need cooling. Vents are likely for aero.

[@macvos]

Actually, LED headlights do. However, these rear lights definitely don't.

[@lamdnhan]

I would hate using the seat back as grab handle. People would rock driver / front passenger when getting in and out. I know that will drive me crazy. Plus something to hit your face during crash (okay, seat belt I know)

[@Ebbrush3]

i always use the ceiling grab handles for dress shirts ...also to hold the head liner up

[@Slebonson]

Thank you guys good to see you 2 as well.

[@deansmits006]

2 tone body panels: I've seen them on the Saturn Ion, and on Bugatti Chiron. It's simply a strong preference, don't get panties in a twist

[@user-to2rf1rj5v]

This thing is only $2k less expensive than a Tesla Model 3 SR+. Why would you ever choose this over a Tesla?

[@abraxastulammo9940]

V2L

[@simonkristensson3077]

People who like to be different maybe?

[@markplott4820]

@@abraxastulammo9940 - not needed, DELETE.

[@4literv6]

Well said, longer range in the model 3, more standard tech&luxury item's inc a heat pump&battery pre conditioning. Safer in a crash, well proven with over 2,000,000+world wide sales so far. And starting January 1st? Tesla will qualify for at least $3,750 of the returning ev credits as well.

[@deansmits006]

$7k less. That's $7000. Base prices, only. For some, that is true ceiling for what they can afford. Also, interior room having a hatchback is preferred by some.

[@xxwookey]

They seem to be forgetting (when discussing grab handles) that Hyundai and Kia are different companies, that might make different choices. So just because Hyundia took handles out of the Ioniq5, doesn't mean that Kia will take them out of the Niro.

[@MolloRelax]

Kia is owned by Hyundai, so they might have some influence over Kia to a certain extent

[@Danne89]

They were also wrong about that. IONIQ 5 do have handles in the roof. I own one.

[@steventhegreat1887]

Don't they still need sound insulation for electric motor whine and road noise that can come in through the front? At least between the cabin and front? Also, I love and appreciate all the work you guys do and hope to see an Ioniq 5 teardown in the near future.

[@jeffreyhampton9130]

Sandy is The Man. More Sandy.

[@nihongobenkyoshimasu3190]

5:18 The vent is to improve air flow and avoid turbulences. Not really something use to cool LED?

[@bextar6365]

Sometimes I wonder about Sandy...

[@chrisheath2637]

Sandy can't help himself - a bunch of suggestions, and then says "That's it, no more - nothing. If you want any more, you have to pay for it." The legend, the myth, the man...

[@ChronosWS]

I think Kia is really doing the industry a favor by exploring the low-mid range of the EV segment and targeting weight. There are lots of premium vehicles on the market but Kia sees that many/most people aren't in that segment and those are the people that are going to be driving real EV adoption now.

[@markplott4820]

then it should DELETE the GAS based e-NIRO, In favor of platform using GIMP platform and car priced like Chevy BOLT. even better, DELETE the GIMP gas based platform, and make BESPOKE skateboard 🛹 platform for ONLY BEV. stop selling GAS and hybrid cars . only make BEV w/ underbody Gigacasting and structural battery pack.

[@mattbrew11]

Chevy bolt.

[@bobwallace9753]

There are other companies that are selling what appears to be very good quality Chinese EVs for a much lower price. The folks on Fully Charged have done some good videos.

[@plop31]

or you can just buy a tesla model 3 and resell the "premium interior" it will be cheaper and lighter

[@jamesvandamme7786]

@@bobwallace9753 I'd like to know how Kia and GM quality and reliability compares with the Chinese cars.

[@pepeshopping]

Sandy is just getting old: People do use the handle to close the hatch. Yes the button is there, but they also sell it without electric opener.

[@nicholashendrickson7479]

I think you missed the rear airbags, Sandy. That interesting upper to the front seats I'm guessing are housings for it.

[@fulano1969]

He seems to not pay too much attention to a lot of obvious details, and make some really dumb assumptions, like "colling for the rear leds", "handles are useless" ..... sure, sure.

[@brunoheggli2888]

The Kia Niro is just mindblowing and gamechanging!

[@MusicalMemeology]

Scott is good I like him.