Kia Rio 3dr

Wraps come off sporty three-door Rio at the Frankfurt show – and the new-look Soul debuts, too

Auto Express Car Reviews

September 2011

Hot on the heels of the new Kia Picanto comes the sportier three-door version of the company’s Ford Fiesta-rivalling Rio, which debuted in Frankfurt.

There are no changes to the car’s proportions, but losing the rear doors gives the hatchback a more racy look. Engines include the standard 107bhp 1.4-litre petrol unit and a frugal 1.1 diesel that promises CO2 emissions as low as 85g/km.

Kia also showcased the facelifted Soul at Frankfurt. The car features a new front end with a narrower grille and LED daytime running lights. At the rear, the bumper is restyled and there’s a set of fresh tail-lamps.

Inside, the fabrics include tartan check, houndstooth and leather. There’s also an optional high-definition instrument cluster.

Under the bonnet, there’s the choice of a new 1.6-litre GDI petrol engine with 138bhp, as well as the 127bhp 1.6-litre CRDi diesel. Combined with the optional EcoDynamics pack – which includes stop-start – the new petrol unit emits 139g/km.

On top of its two production debuts, Kia is unveiling a front-engined, rear-wheel-drive concept car called the GT.