The Rio supermini is Kia’s bestselling model worldwide – and the South Korean brand has thought it fitting to completely revamp the model for 2017.
Now in its fourth-generation, Kia has decided to get rid of the Rio’s plump shape in place of a boxier and sportier look. A wider tiger nose grille and lengthier body finish off the look.
What trim levels are available?
A familiar line-up of trim levels is available: 1, 2, 3 and First Edition – expect a sporty GT-Line derivative to be added at a later date. The most significant addition to the cabin however is the new ‘floating’ touchscreen.
Starting from £11,995, the entry-level 1 trim comes equipped with air con, Bluetooth, LED daytime running lights and a 3.8-inch display screen. Grade 2 models, which start from £13,745, step it up a notch with DAB radio, a five-inch colour display, cruise control, a reversing camera, parking sensors and leather trimmings to the steering wheel and gearstick.
Added features to the £16,295 3 trim include automatic air con, black faux leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a seven-inch display with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The flagship First Edition model – which starts from £17,445 – adds 17-inch alloys, stainless steel pedals, LED rear lights and black and red faux leather upholstery.
A new 1.0-litre turbo joins the range
There’s a familiar range of engines available too, including a 1.25-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and 1.4-litre turbodiesel, but the big news is the addition of the new 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol, which is available in both 99bhp and 118bhp outputs.
The 99bhp variant is the most efficient 1.0-litre in the range, claiming an average return of 62.8mpg and emitting 102g/km of CO2. The 1.4-litre diesel remains the most efficient engine overall though, emitting just 92g/km of CO2 and claiming an average return of 80.7mpg.
In terms of driving dynamics, the Rio sits on familiar underpinnings, although they have been reworked to offer a comfier, yet sportier drive, thanks to suspension and construction tweaks.
According to Kia, the shell of the new Rio is stiffer, due to a 51 per cent high-strength steel construction, which makes it more planted when cornering. There is also a new power steering set-up which is aimed at offering more immediate responsiveness.
