Kia Motors, the nation’s second-largest carmaker, is ready to debut Niro, its first hybrid sport utility vehicle, in Europe by hosting a media preview event in Frankfurt, Germany, on Wednesday.

Kia plans to officially debut the compact SUV in Europe during the 86th Geneva International Motor Show in Switzerland between March 3 and 13.

Early this month at the Chicago Auto show, the Korean automaker unveiled Niro, developed on the same platform with its sister firm Hyundai Motor’ Ioniq hybrid, for the first time.

Besides the SUV Niro, the company disclosed other new cars, including K5 plug-in hybrid and K5 wagon, to about 200 European dealers and reporters before the Swiss auto show. 

Kia officials, in particular, were confident of the success of the compact hybrid SUV in Europe in line with the growth projection of green cars. Market analysts said the green car market in Europe is forecast to reach up to 700,000 units by 2020.

“The Niro will offer European buyers a compelling blend of crossover practicality with the modern styling and an efficient new hybrid powertrain to keep running costs down,” said Michael Cole, chief operating officer of Kia Europe.

The gasoline-electric small SUV comes with a 105 horsepower and boasts fuel economy of 50 miles per gallon, which translates into about 21.5 kilometers per liter.

Last month, Kia said it plans to sell about 65,000 units of the Niro at home and abroad annually.

By Seo Jee-yeon (jyseo@heraldcorp.com)