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Kia Rio

If you think that car manufacturers have it tough at the top of the sales charts, spare a thought for those at the bottom... Take Korean manufacturer Kia as an example. Since it arrived in the UK in 1991 with its Fiesta-sized Pride, the firm has fought hard for forecourt success.

By Charley Chae

August 2002

If you think that car manufacturers have it tough at the top of the sales charts, spare a thought for those at the bottom... Take Korean manufacturer Kia as an example. Since it arrived in the UK in 1991 with its Fiesta-sized Pride, the firm has fought hard for forecourt success.

However, a fast-expanding model range and relentless pursuit of value for money have seen one of the smallest brands in Britain make huge strides in the past year. And things can only get better following the introduction of a facelifted edition of the Ford Focus-rivalling Kia Rio, which was rolled out in Korea last week when Auto Express was first behind the wheel.

Christened the Rio SF - the SF stands for Science Fiction - in its home market, a hatchback version will go on sale in the UK early next year. It features a revised 1.5-litre diesel unit and is longer and taller than the current car.

New headlamps, radiator grille and front bumper give a more aggressive appearance, but the angular bodywork comes as a shock compared with the curvaceous style of the existing model. Despite these changes, Kia has kept the current Rio's profile for both saloon and hatcback. Inside, there are new fabrics, a revised dashboard and metal trim on the central facia and gearlever.

With the engine running, it's clear that refinement has been worked on as well. The unit feels free-revving and eager, acceleration is brisk and the car cruises competently. The ride is comfortable thanks to improvements made to the spring and damper set-up, but the car still rolls heavily through bends, although changes are expected before the Rio goes on sale in Britain.

Equipment includes air-con, stereo system and remote central locking as standard, together with airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, ABS and a stronger bodyshell. It all adds up to a good deal - and that's fact, not fiction!

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For an alternative review of the latest Kia Rio visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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FIRST OPINION

    Although the styling takes some getting used to, the new Rio has an improved engine and ride quality as well as a smarter interior. Safety is upgraded, too, and while the UK will only get the five-door machine, the Rio is a significant leap forward for the company's competitiveness in the cut-throat family car market.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Revised Kia Rio on sale in the UK early next year
    Powered by a 99bhp 1.5-litre diesel engine
    Better safety and refinement
     
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