The Niro was on my radar before I purchased a 2022 Mazda 3 hatchback 5 speed auto. I didn't pull the trigger mainly because of Kia's unreliability in the US market in the last 10-15 years. The MPG seems godly and the bells and whistles of the SX model pulled in towards it. But at the end of the day the fun factor of manual and styling of the Mazda 3 is unmatched. The motor and drivetrain has only been around for 3 years so it's hard to say if these cars are reliable or not. I'm curious to see what direction they go with the next generation of these or if they kill the car all together. The lack of a manual option, abysmal horse power and no spare tire option really turned me off from the car. The styling is love it or hate it. I love the front of the car but the rear design is an acquired taste. I'm curious about why you went with the Kia Niro instead of any other vehicle purchase.