Trailer Hitch With 2" Receiver for 2018 Kia Niro Hybrid
Updated 01/12/2026 | Published 09/02/2024
Question:
I have a friend who has a 2018 Kia Niro hybrid. It is not the plug in hybrid. We would like to put a 2 inch hitch on it to carry a bike rack. I could only find mention of the regular Kia Niro and not the Kia Niro hybrid on your web page. Do the same hitches that fit the Kia Niro fit the hybrid version? I noticed on the Curt hitch, you have to permanently remove the exhaust shield. Do you have a hitch for the car where you don’t have to permanently remove the exhaust shield? Thanks. Don
asked by: Don W
Expert Reply:
Hey there Don; the Curt # C13329 and etrailer # e33AR are the only 2" hitches confirmed to fit your friends 2018 Niro Hybrid. These hitches are compatible with the standard hybrid, which it sounds like your friend has, just not the PHEV or EV. They share the same design so the exhaust shield will need to be removed on both.
Exhaust shield and heat shield removal is fairly common for hitch installations. This won't damage the vehicle or impact performance. Trimming of the splash guard will also be required. The etrailer hitch has a matte black finish which helps hide dirt and scratches. The Curt hitch has a glossy finish. If you don't have a preference I would choose whichever has the better price.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Video: How to Install: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on your 2018 Kia Niro
- Shop: EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Cabin Air Filter
- Video: In-Depth Review of the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock
- Video: Best 2019 Kia Niro Trailer Hitch Options
- Video: Comprehensive Review: Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Trailer Hitches
- Search Results: trailer hitch lock
- Search Results: hitch cargo carrier
- Search Results: cinch strap tie down straps
- Search Results: responsive ratchet ratchet straps
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock - 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - Stainless Steel
- Shop: etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Stabilizer for 2" Hitches - Vinyl Coated Steel
- Shop: Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Trailer Hitches - Stainless Steel
- Shop: Erickson Aluminum Mobility / Cargo Carrier - 30-1/4" Wide x 50" Long - 400 lbs
- Shop: 20x60 Curt Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches - Steel - Folding - 500 lbs
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
on Trailer Hitch
Robin H.
1/12/2026
Hey Don, how did things go with the hitch for your friend’s Niro Hybrid? Did the exhaust shield removal and splash guard trimming go smoothly? Your update could make it easier for others working on the same setup.