First Look: KIA Rio

Kia Motors has revealed the first photos of the next generation Rio, to be unveiled at Geneva Motorshow alongside the all new Picanto.

The Rio is the latest car to be revealed by Kia, boasting a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the newcomer in line with the rest of Kia’s striking design-led passenger car range.

The Rio will be on sale in the UK from September as a 5-door version and a 3-door will be available from early 2012. Pricing and full range details will be announced nearer the on-sale date.

New Rio has its own interpretation of Kia’s signature grille, integrated with the headlamps to give a new twist on the Kia family look. In profile, the body to glass ratio and its strong wedge form give new Rio a dynamic stance.

The new model features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm) and promises greater passenger space and comfort, together with increased cargo capacity to 292 litres for the hatchback. Exterior dimensions changes include: +55 mm (overall length), -15 mm (height) and +25 mm (overall width).

Inside, the new model will deliver a high level of quality previously associated with larger models – together with a wide selection of trim options.

Kia’s B-segment newcomer will be offered with an extensive range of fuel-efficient and low-CO2 petrol and diesel engines, depending on market – including a 1.1-litre diesel unit generating 70 ps, with CO2 emissions from as low as 85 g/km. An all-new, high-performance 1.2-litre Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) will also be available from 2012.

Credits: wilswong