Kia Niro sets Hybrid Mileage Record

A just-completed drive from Los Angeles to New York City nets a hybrid fuel economy record for the 2017 Kia Niro.

Kia Niro Guinness World Record

The price of a gallon of gas may still be hovering around $2 a gallon, but that hasn't slowed the pace of hybrid technology.

Earlier today, Kia Motors America announced that its first dedicated hybrid model, the 2017 Niro, had achieved a new Guinness World Record title for "the lowest fuel consumption driving across the USA from coast to coast in a hybrid car."

As of today, that mark now sits at 76.6 miles per gallon.

"We're extremely pleased with the Niro's record-breaking performance," said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning KMA. "We set out to build a vehicle that offers real-world utility, great looks and fantastic mileage, and setting the Guinness World Record title confirms our achievement."

In traveling from Los Angeles City Hall to New York City Hall, the Niro hybrid traveled 3,715 miles, consuming a mere 48.5 gallons (4.1 tanks) of gasoline in the process. The top trim 2017 Nero EX used for the record attempt was driven by Wayne Gerdes of Carlsbad, California and co-driver Robert Winger of Williamsburg, Virginia. Both are well-known hyper-milers.

2017 Kia Niro Hybrid

Scheduled to arrive at Kia dealers nationwide during the first quarter of 2017, the Niro will be available in five trim levels – the high-mileage FE, entry-level LX, mid-level EX top-trim Touring and the limited-run Launch Edition.

EPA-estimated fuel economy for the FE is 52/49/50 city/highway/combined mpg, 51/46/49 city/highway/combined mpg for the LX and 46/40/43 city/highway/combined mpg for the Touring trim.