Kia Niro Hybrid Priced Under $24,000

Kia Motors Corp.’s Niro hybrid-electric crossover vehicle, which is already available overseas, will start at $23,800 when hits the streets next month in the U.S.

The Niro’s pricing undercuts two of its primary hybrid rivals by more than $1,000. The Ford C-Max Hybrid starts at $25,000, while the Toyota Prius stickers for $25,500.

Standard equipment on the base Niro FE model includes keyless entry, a 7-inch touch-screen display, 16-inch wheels and a rearview camera. The vehicle also features Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration.

The mid-level Niro LX and EX models start at $24,100 and $26,600, respectively. A special Launch Edition model with unique color options and high-end navigation and audio systems will go for $29,000.

The top-of-the-line Touring package (pictured) bumps the sticker price to more than $30,500. For this buyers get heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, parking assist, a power sunroof and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

Power comes from a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine teamed with an electric motor. The combination makes 139 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque.

The Niro FE has an Environmental Protection Agency fuel economy rating of 50 mpg. The base Prius and Ford C Max are rated at 52 mpg and 40 mpg, respectively.

Hyundai Motor Co.’s Ioniq Blue, which shares a platform with the Niro, is the most fuel efficient 2017 hybrid in the U.S with an EPA rating of 58 mpg.