Welcome to The Downshift, known as TDS, The Drive’s morning news compilation featuring the top automotive stories globally.
The Downshift provides a concise news summary with links to complete articles for those desiring additional details. Here’s your update for Friday, August 28, 2026.
💸 The entry-level Kia Niro has been raised in price by approximately $2,500 for 2027, now starting at $29,890 before destination fees. Including shipping, you can no longer find a Niro for under $30,000. Moreover, Kia has removed the plug-in and fully electric variants from its lineup, leaving only the standard hybrid available. [Autoblog]
📦 The 2027 Ram ProMaster City begins at just under $40,000—$39,995, including destination charges. [Motor1]
🙅♂️ A Honda representative dismissed a claim by Automotive News suggesting that Honda’s technology-sharing collaboration with Nissan could result in a body-on-frame pickup truck, labeling it as “entirely speculative.” [Road & Track]
📉 An uptick in domestic auto sales was unable to save Toyota’s July, as sales plummeted in other regions, including China (24.3%), the Middle East (44.5%), and even in the U.S. (0.8%). [Reuters]
⚡ Lucid has issued a recall for roughly 27,000 Air sedans due to an exterior lighting circuit that may overheat, posing a fire hazard. The positive aspect is that this issue can be remedied through an over-the-air update, so if you own an affected Air, please install it promptly. Without this update, the NHTSA advises owners to park away from buildings and outside, as a fire could ignite at any moment, even when the vehicle is not in operation. [Reuters]
🪪 Rivian’s Chief Financial Officer, Claire McDonough, will depart from the company following a six-year period. Derek Mulvey, the firm’s Vice President of Finance, will serve as interim replacement until a permanent successor is appointed. [InsideEVs]
Ⓜ️ BMW M chief Frank van Meel recently reiterated that the brand has no interest in entering Formula 1, citing its lack of relevance to consumer vehicles. He emphasized the significance of IMSA: “The USA, accounting for about 40% of our overall sales, is our most crucial single market for BMW M. BMW achieved significant growth in the USA through motorsport. That’s why IMSA holds tremendous importance for us,” Meel stated. [Motorsport.com]
🏁 Upcoming weekend races (all times Eastern):
- WRC Rally Del Paraguay: All weekend on Rally.TV
- NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Daytona: Friday at 7:30 p.m. on CW/ESPN
- IndyCar at Milwaukee: Saturday at 2:30 p.m. (Race 1) and Sunday at 1 p.m. (Race 2) on Fox
- NASCAR Cup Series at Daytona: Saturday at 7:30 p.m. on NBC
- MotoGP Aragon Grand Prix: Sunday at 8 a.m. on FS2
- GT World Challenge America at Road America: Sunday at 3 p.m. free streaming on YouTube
Have a tip or feedback for TDS? Contact us at [email protected]
**Kia Niro Now Begins at Over $30,000, According to TDS**
The Kia Niro, a well-known compact crossover celebrated for its hybrid and electric variants, has undergone a price change, with its starting cost now surpassing $30,000. This adjustment mirrors the shifting automotive industry and the growing interest in eco-conscious vehicles.
The Niro presents a variety of models, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric options, catering to a wide audience seeking efficiency without compromising on style or practicality. The base version, which was previously more affordably priced, now starts at over $30,000, making it crucial for prospective buyers to assess the features and advantages associated with this expenditure.
A major draw of the Kia Niro is its fuel economy. The hybrid model boasts remarkable mileage, making it a cost-effective choice for daily driving and long-distance travel. The plug-in hybrid provides the option of electric-only driving for shorter distances while retaining the gasoline engine for extended trips. Conversely, the fully electric model appeals to those wishing to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt sustainable driving practices.
Besides its eco-friendly attributes, the Kia Niro comes equipped with a range of contemporary technology and safety features. Standard offerings typically encompass a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone compatibility, advanced driver-assistance technologies, and a spacious cabin designed for comfort and practicality.
The increase in price might also reflect the escalating costs of materials and production within the automotive sector, as manufacturers adjust to supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures. Despite the elevated starting price, the Niro remains competitive in its segment, particularly when factoring in the long-term savings on fuel and possible tax incentives for hybrid and electric vehicles.
As consumers continue to emphasize sustainability and efficiency in their vehicle selections, the Kia Niro’s adjusted pricing could sway purchasing choices. Those interested in the Niro should weigh the advantages of its eco-friendly technology against the updated price while exploring different trims and options that best meet their requirements.
In conclusion, the Kia Niro’s starting price now exceeding $30,000 signifies a notable shift in its market standing. As the automotive landscape evolves, the Niro persists as an attractive option for environmentally conscious drivers in search of a reliable and stylish crossover.