Kia’s Rio bids for top spot in eco battle

Kia says its new Rio, in UK showrooms from 1st September, is a major step forward for the company in terms of both quality and efficiency.

Certainly the new supermini is a completely different car to its predecessor, and expected to play a major part in Kia’s aim to multiply its sales performance. Kia expects it to be a consistent top 10 supermini contender.

The latest car is the fourth generation Rio, and the first to be offered in both five and three-door formats – the three door will join the range early next year.

The car will be offered with two petrol and two diesel engines, Kia claiming that the 74bhp 1.1-litre three-cylinder turbodiesel will offer better fuel consumption and emissions than any other non-electric car – including hybrids and eco specials.

The official figures are 88.3mpg and 85g/km of emissions, achieved by the usual eco measures including stop and go engine technology, low rolling resistance tyres, a drag-reducing front grille, gearshift indicator and rear spoiler.

There will be a 1.4 diesel of 89bhp, and petrol units of 1.25-litre 83bhp (launched recently in Kia’s latest Picanto) and a 1.4-litre of 107bhp.

The Rio is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, with the wheelbase stretched by 70mm to free up extra interior space. However Kia says the styling, led by Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer, is much bolder than the old Rio and gives the car a coupe-like profile that will see it selling as much on its looks as its practicality.

The Rio will, like the Picanto, be offered in Kia’s three trim levels, numbered 1, 2 and 3, at prices ranging from £10,595 (1.25 ‘1’ petrol) to £14,895 (1.4 CRDi ‘3’ EcoDynamics).