The 4th generation KIA Rio has been revealed ahead of Paris Motor Show premiere.
The new Rio has a completely new look, an updated front end styling with a slimmer and wider grille, flanked by ‘bi-function’ lights, longer bonnet and front overhang. There are new creases, a thinner C-pillar and a more truncated bottom.
Making use of the extra chassis length is a re-designed rear torsion bar and independent front suspension, which Kia reckons give the new car “greater driving appeal, with more agile and immediate handling, while improving ride comfort”.
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The new Rio also gets Kia’s Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard. More importantly it also offers ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian recognition (which uses radar to try and mitigate a collision) as well as a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS).
There is a variety of engines ranging from Kia’s latest three-cylinder 1.0-litre T-GDI (turbo gasoline direct injection) with either 98 or 118bhp, to a range of diesel versions. The Rio is an important model for Kia, as last year it sold 473,000 units worldwide.
Related: KIA In Pakistan: Past And The Future..
As per the initial reports, the production of Kia vehicles in Pakistan may commence towards the latter half of 2017, considering this, one may expect Dewan Motors to launch the likes of 4th generation Rio in Pakistan.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com