The new fourth-generation Rio by Kia was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in 2011. It is now famous for its unique appearance and strong personality. Each element of the new model is in line with the rest of the impressive range of designs by Kia. Faced with the difficult job of improving international sales and success of the previous generation model, the engineers and designers have created a Kia Rio with a new aesthetic taste for consumers.
The new model will move up in sales with its low running costs and class-leading reduction of CO2 emissions. The 5-door version of the Kia Rio will go on sale in the UK in September, while the model with 3-doors will be available in early 2012.
Both versions will be manufactured exclusively at the Kia factory in Sohari, Korea. This new car is an evolution of its predecessor. The bold and distinctive personality of the new Rio represents a complete departure from its predecessor and fits perfectly into the revitalised new line of Kia vehicles. The Rio has its own unique grille, which is integrated and combined with the headlamps to create a new twist to the visual appearance of the Kia.
In it's latest incarnation, the Kia logo now sits above the grille. In profile, there is a dynamic stance to the car due to the proportions of the glass to the frame. The Rio shows a connection with the Sportage, with a strong and stable rear-end, a flowing C-pillar and dominant high shoulder.
The roof-line of the coupe contrasts dramatically with the rear bumper of the car. This bold, but elegant appearance is strengthened by the distinctive lines of the car. In many countries, the diesel model is the preferred option for the Rio.
A 1.4-litre engine will generate 90 horsepower and 216 Nm of torque, while the 1.1-litre will produce 70 horsepower and 162 Nm of torque. Both of these engines provide a maximum torque at 1,750 rpm. A well-proven power unit has reduced friction and is modified to achieve competitive performance and fuel economy.
With a maximum of 109 horsepower and a maximum torque of 136 Nm, this engine is the fastest and accelerates to 100 km/h in 11.5 seconds, as well as being able to reach a top speed of 181 km/h. The standard transmission for the diesel versions and the larger petrol model will be a six-speed manual gearbox. The 1.25-litre petrol engine with 85 horsepower will have a five-speed gearbox. A four-speed automatic gearbox will be available as an option on the 1.4-litre petrol engine powered by 109 horsepower.