Now in its fourth generation, the Rio has received what the South Korean automaker deems “…a significant upgrade” which is set to debut on local shores before the end of 2020.
Enhanced exterior
As with all other new Kia products, the updated Rio will retain the brand’s ‘tiger-nose’ grille which has been narrowed in order to match the new lower, wider front bumper and new fog lamp housing. All models will also benefit from full LED headlamps with daytime running lights. The European-spec cars will be available with nine colour options, including two new options, Perennial Grey and Sporty Blue while new 16-inch alloy wheels are also available.
Interior update
The interior is perhaps where the changes can be seen more dramatically, with new materials and improved quality aimed at making the car more upmarket. The big addition inside though is a new 8.0-inch infotainment system and a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster. Certain markets will have the option of a new blue colour pack to enhance the interior look. The GT-Line models get a black single-tone interior with white contrast piping and stitching on the seats, and a carbon fibre-effect dashboard.
New engine
The big news is that the Rio range has received a turbocharged engine, which in this instance is also a mild-hybrid electric MHEV) powertrain. The so-called “Smartstream” engine combines a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery which extends engine ‘off time’ and assists with power delivery.
The engine is available in 74 kW or 88 kW guise, with the latter producing 200 N.m of torque. Both variants are equipped with a Drive Mode Select system, which includes ‘Eco’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Normal’ modes. There is also an updated version of the brand’s naturally aspirated 1.2-litre engine which produces 62 kW of power. The Rio will also get a new intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) system with a ‘clutch-by-wire’ set-up or a seven-speed double-clutch transmission (7DCT).
Local availability
Kia Motors South Africa has suggested that the updated Rio will debut in the fourth quarter of 2020. Local specification, powertrains and transmissions will be revealed closer to the local launch date.
