The updated Kia Rio.
Kia has announced an update to the fourth generation Rio.
The updated Rio retains Kia’s iconic ‘tiger-nose’ grille, but narrowed for a more focused appearance and matched by a lower, wider front bumper and distinctive new fog lamp housing.
All models now feature new full LED headlamps with integral running lights. Two new exterior colours are also introduced with the upgraded model: Perennial Grey and Sporty Blue.
NEW MILD-HYBRID TECH FOR THE KIA RIO
The updated Kia Rio also now gets the Kia EcoDynamics powertrain. It pairs the Smartstream 1-litre turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine with Kia’s 48V mild-hybrid system, maximising fuel efficiency with electric torque assistance and regenerative braking.
Iconic “tiger-nose” grille has been narrowed for a more focused look.
The new Smartstream engine replaces the Kia Rio’s earlier Kappa 1-litre T-GDi. It is equipped with Kia’s advanced Continuously Variable Valve Duration technology, enabling the engine to switch seamlessly between different combustion cycles.
Peak torque output for 118bhp variant is now 200Nm as a result, a 16% increase over the Kappa engine.
The upgraded Kia Rio also features major revisions to its existing range of gasoline engine options, maximising efficiency, lowering CO2 emissions, and improving driveability.
On top of the EcoDynamics+ models, the Rio lineup is now offered in Europe with a choice of Smartstream gasoline engines – the new 99bhp 1-litre T-GDi engine, and a new version of Kia’s naturally aspirated 1.2-litre engine, with innovative Dual Port Injection technology and a power output of 83bhp.
The 99bhp 1-litre T-GDi engine is also now offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, replacing the earlier 5-speed manual, and Kia’s 7-speed double-clutch transmission.
Kia’s Phase II UVO Connect telematics infotainment can simultaneously sync with 2 mobile devices.
UPDATED INFOTAINMENT
The updated Rio features an upgraded touchscreen navigation system, and is one of the first Kia models in Europe to offer the brand’s innovative Phase II UVO Connect telematics system.
The new system enables users to connect up to 2 mobile devices at the same time – one for hands-free phone and multimedia use, and the other for media use only.
The system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on models equipped with the new 8-inch Display Audio system.
Both standard and GT Line models are also now equipped with driver and optional front passenger seat height adjustability. European sales of the upgraded Kia Rio are scheduled for the third quarter of 2020.
Do also read about Kia’s latest compact crossover to hit Singapore’s shores, the Seltos, here.
Looking for a sub-compact Kia but would rather get a crossover? Read our review of the Kia Stonic here!
