Kia To Spice Up Budget Rio...

It was carnival time for Kia at the Detroit Motor Show this week - as the firm unveiled its new Rio. Seen here in saloon form, the small family car follows on from the Sports Concept which was shown at the Paris event last September.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Mat Watson

12th January 2005

The production car signals a big step forward in terms of styling and quality over its predecessor. It has a youthful face similar to the Picanto city car, with a honeycomb grille and large headlamps. Flared wheelarches, a deep front bumper and bold creases in the bonnet help give the Rio a solid look.

The ride and handling have also been improved, thanks to a new chassis - which is shared with the next-generation Hyundai Accent - and the cabin is more spacious than before. A Kia spokesman said: "We have taken great care to ensure this vehicle's styling will appeal to younger buyers.

"There are significant improvements in the quality of the materials used inside the car, while the driving dynamics are better, too," he added. "We expect these factors, plus our tradition for value for money, will tempt buyers out of our more expensive rivals."
Two petrol units - a 1.3-litre and 1.6 - and a 1.5-litre diesel will be on offer. However, the Rio will only be available as a hatchback when it goes on sale in the UK later this year, priced from ΂£8,000.

The five-door will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, while a hot version, which will look similar to the Sports Concept, is expected to be added to the range in 2006.

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