Ahead of its official unveiling on September 29 at the Paris Motor Show, Kia has revealed the fourth generation Rio. The hatchback designed at Kia’s design centres in Germany and California, now gets fresh interior and exterior design upgrades. It is believed that the new model will continue to be powered by existing 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre petrol engine options, while the diesel might come with a 1.1-litre engine. Reports indicate that the company might also introduce a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine.
In terms of design, the front section sports a thinner and wider tiger-nose grille and tweaked integrated bi-function projection headlamps with signature LED lights. The fog lamp positioning has also been revised with an outward positioning for more effectiveness. The rear section sports redesigned tail lamps with new arrow-shaped LED light signature. Overall, the car looks bolder and sportier than before.
In terms of dimensions, the new Rio gets 10mm longer wheelbase at 2,580 mm, as for length it is 15 mm longer than its predecessor and now measures 4,065 mm and the width has been increased by 5mm, thereby now bringing it to 1,725mm. The height has been reduced by 5mm and it now measures 1,450mm. The interior offers more space than the older generation model. Customers can choose from black or grey cloth seat upholstery, or with black or grey artificial leather. Moreover, the ‘Red Pack’ offers an opportunity to opt for black and metallic trim throughout the vehicle’s interiors.
The Kia Rio will be showcased at the upcoming Paris Motor Show 2016, while its production will begin by the end of this year. The vehicle will be loaded with all modern safety and convenience feature. The Kia brand is expected to enter the Indian market soon. We can expect to see the company introduce the B-segment models right till the SUV segment. If introduced in India, the Rio hatchback from Kia, a Hyundai subsidiary, might be positioned below the Hyundai’s Elite i20 in India.
