Kia have revealed a facelift to their 4th generation Rio, which brings quite a few high-end features to the B-segment along with a design refresh.
Here are the key changes, part by part:
EcoDynamics+ MHEV Powertrain
The Rio gets a mild-hybrid electric vehicle option called EcoDynamics+. This pairs a new 1-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V electrical system which helps reduce fuel consumption using electric torque. This system is recharged using regenerative braking and crankshaft recharging, but can NOT be charged via an external plug.
The lithium-ion polymer battery also helps keep the vehicle’s systems running when the engine stops in traffic.
The 1.0 T-GDi petrol engine is new to the Rio and has Continuously Variable Valve Duration. Despite the smaller displacement, the engine still produces as much power as the previous Kappa engine, but has 16% higher peak torque. Power output is between 100-120PS and 200Nm of torque, but Kia will disclose more information on this later.
Eco, Sport and Normal drive modes are available with this powertrain.
European customers who opt for the manual version will get a high-tech clutch by wire system. The clutch by wire system is required for the MHEV system to work more effectively in cutting engine power as the car coasts to a stop.
Other engine options
The Rio also gets that same 1-litre T-GDi engine without the MHEV system, as well as a 1.2-litre engine with Dual Port Injection technology. A diesel is also offered in Europe.
Infotainment upgrade
The Rio gets a larger 8″ touchscreen with Bluetooth multi-connection. 2 devices can be paired to it simultaneously. The screen can be split in two to keep tabs on vehicle features or other functions at the same time too. Wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay are available too.
Safety Enhancements
For a B-segment car, the Kia Rio does not compromise when it comes to safety. This latest facelift brings a host of Kia’s latest Advanced Driving Assistance Systems including:
- Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (pedestrian, vehicle, cyclist detection)
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Blind Spot Collision Warning
- Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist
- Intelligent Speed Limit Warning
- Smart Cruise Control
- Lane Following Assist
- Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- Leading Vehicle Departure Alert
