The new Rio draws design cues from across the Kia range, with the company’s ‘Schreyer Line’ family grille design, large angular headlights and a front bumper styled in line with the recently-revealed Picanto. Depending on the market and specification, the new Rio will be offered in five- and three-door hatch styles, along with a four-door sedan version. The new Kia offers a wheelbase 70mm longer than its predecessor, promising greater cabin space for front and rear passengers. The cargo capacity has also grown, now measuring 292 litres for the five-door hatch (rear seats up) and 390 litres for the sedan.
While the new Rio’s interior has yet to be revealed, Kia says we can expect a level of quality “usually associated with larger models,” along with a broad range of trim options and features. This new Rio will be offered with six petrol and diesel engine variants, from a 51kW 1.1 litre diesel engine through to a 103kW 1.6 litre GDI petrol engine. Importantly for Kia as it continues its push for young buyers, the new Rio will also benefit from an all-new 1.2 litre turbocharged GDI petrol engine which Malaysia should see together with the 1.6-liter GDI engine. Arrival in Malaysia is still quite a few months away.
