The exclusive reign of the Niro is over. With the introduction of the XM3, the compact hybrid market is seeing new tension.

The XM3 boasts high efficiency by incorporating hybrid technology used in Renault’s F1 cars, marking the start of serious competition with the Niro.

On the 2nd, Renault Korea launched the XM3 E-TECH hybrid in the domestic market. The XM3 E-TECH hybrid was initially released in Europe, receiving accolades as one of the best hybrids from experts and buyers.

The E-TECH hybrid system in the XM3 incorporates hybrid technology from Renault’s F1 cars. Its dual-motor system, consisting of a driving electric motor (36kW/ 205Nm) and a high-voltage starter motor with generating capabilities (15kW/ 50Nm), is combined with a 1.6 gasoline engine and a clutchless multi-mode gearbox, showcasing high energy efficiency.

This setup enables electric driving for up to 75% at speeds below 50km/h in urban areas, with an EV button allowing full electric vehicle mode selection depending on battery charge and speed. This allows the XM3 hybrid, with 17-inch tires, to achieve an impressive fuel economy of 17.4 km/l.

With the introduction of the XM3 hybrid technology derived from F1, the Niro faces fierce competition in the compact hybrid market. The Niro underwent a significant transformation as the second-generation model in January, enjoying positive responses bolstered by the new car effect. The Niro combines a Smartstream hybrid 1.6G engine with a 32kW motor, yielding a maximum output of 141 horsepower from its system. Furthermore, the Niro has achieved the highest combined fuel economy among domestic SUVs at 20.8 km/l.

Additionally, the Niro offers advanced driver assistance systems, including the Green Zone Drive Mode 2.0, Remote Smart Parking Assist, Rear Seat Passenger Alert, and Smart Power Tailgate.

Up until October, 17,315 units of the Niro had been sold, representing a 93.6% increase compared to the 8,944 units sold in the same period last year, leveraging the significant advantages of the new model. While the Niro enjoyed a commanding presence in the compact hybrid SUV market with cutting-edge convenience features, Renault has brought forth the XM3 E-TECH hybrid with F1 hybrid technology as a formidable contender.

Industry experts anticipate that the entry of the XM3 E-TECH hybrid will further expand the compact hybrid SUV market, which the Niro previously dominated alone.

Written by Lee Sang-jin | daedusj@autodiary.kr