THE Kia Rio has been increasingly recognised in the compact car segment of the European and North American markets due to its stylish and modern appearance.
Naza Kia, the official distributor of Kia vehicles in Malaysia, is keen to continue the brand’s momentum with the unveiling of the new Rio.
Speaking at the launch of the new B-segment hatchback, Naza Corporation Holdings group chief operating officer (automotive group) Datuk Samson Anand George said: “The third-generation Kia Rio was popular among Malaysians with its design, build, quality and interior features. However, the fourth-generation Rio is set to build on those strengths, but also take it up a notch by combining them with improved spaciousness, which gives it practicality as well as good looks.”
Designed in Germany and California, the new Kia Rio features a design that differs from its rounded bean-like predecessor, with a contemporary thinner and broader “tiger nose” grille with a gloss black cover.
Flanking the grille is a pair of halogen projector headlights with U-shaped LED DRL (daytime running lights) and a pair of projector fog lights that has been pushed outwards, giving it an aggressive front fascia.
The side profile speaks sculptured by the wind instead of sketched in the studio with a solid body volume to deliver a tout, wide stance.
At the rear, redesigned tail lights distinguish it from the previous car, while the tailgate handle is fitted with a rear-view camera.
The new Rio is significantly more spacious with an additional 4mm rear headroom, additional 8mm front legroom and additional 4mm rear legroom.
The sculptured design of the exterior is carried into the dashboard construction, which is topped with horizontal lines.
On the centre console is a floating-type audio system made of a 5-inch LCD touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, emphasising the latest technology in a trendy modern style.
Convenient features include keyless entry, push start button, power windows, rain sensing wipers and automatic headlights with static bending lights.
Practicality wise, the rear seats of the new Rio can be folded 60:40 to increase luggage capacity.
Available in a single-trim level, the new Rio is propelled by a new 1.4-litre MPI Kappa engine, good for 100hp and 133Nm form with just 4,000 rpm. However, the four-speed automatic transmission is a carryover unit.
The car also packs an impressive list of safety features, consisting of six airbags, ISOFIX baby seat mounts, speed-sensing automatic door unlock and active systems, such as ABS, ESC and Hill-start Assist Control.
The new Rio is retailed at RM79,888 without insurance and five-years warranty with unlimited mileage.