Kia has introduced the fourth-generation 2012 Kia Rio at the Geneva Motor Show, bringing the latest model boasts a bold and distinctive personality. The new Kia Rio will spearhead the company's efforts to significantly grow its market share across the globe by offering potential owners industry-leading environmental credentials. Tasked with the difficult job of improving upon the remarkable international sales success of the previous generation model, Kia's engineers and designers have created a new Rio which combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that also communicates Latin flair, for a truly global appeal.
Available in three- and five-door body styles, the redesigned model features a bold front fascia, deeply sculpted doors, and optional LED daytime driving lights. It measures 55mm longer, 25mm wider, and 15mm lower than the outgoing model. Furthermore, the 2,570mm wheelbase results in a spacious cabin and a luggage compartment which can hold up to 390 liters (13.8 cubic feet) of cargo.
Inside, the cabin is described as "clean" and "sophisticated." While we wouldn't go that far, material quality seems significantly improved from its predecessor. Additionally, the Rio offers options such as passive entry, Bluetooth connectivity, and heated front seats.
Specs engine, Four highly efficient engines with 70-to-109 ps output In Europe, the new Kia Rio will offer customers a choice of four highly efficient three- and four-cylinder engines - with a 70-to-109 ps power range - and an industry-leading CO2 base-line rating of just 85 g/km, plus fuel consumption as low as 3.2 litres per 100 km. In many countries, diesel power is the preferred option in this segment and Rio will be available with two versions of Kia's 'U2' power unit - both fitted with 16-valves and a WGT. The 1.4-litre generates 90 ps and 216 Nm of torque, while the 1.1-litre produces 70 ps and 162 Nm. Both engines deliver maximum torque from just 1,750 rpm.
On the diesel side, there's a 1.1-liter three-cylinder that develops 82 PS (60 kW / 81 hp) and 94 Nm (69 lb-ft) of torque. This anemic engine means 0-100 km/h clocks in at 16.4 seconds and the top speed is 161 km/h. If you don't have all day to wait around, the 1.4-liter four-cylinder churns out 90 PS (66 kW / 89 hp) and 216 Nm (159 lb-ft) of torque. It enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 14.2 seconds and top out at 171 km/h.
Kia's engineers are confident that new Rio will achieve a 5-Star safety rating in EuroNCAP crash tests, following the top ratings scored by cee'd, Venga, Soul, Sportage and Sorento. In Europe, standard safety equipment will include up to six airbags, 'active' front seat head restraints (to protect against whiplash injury in a rear impact).
The five-door Rio will go on sale later this year, while the three-door variant will be launched in early 2012.
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