22.8.2011 Kia announces all-new Rio range

The new 4th generation Rio goes on sale in the UK on 1st September and continues Kia's roll-out of models with lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

By 2012 Kia aims to have the newest product line-up on offer in the UK. The arrival of the new Rio, and for the first time as a three-door from early 2012, will help Kia reach that ambition.

The new Kia Rio will be available with four engines – two petrol and two diesel – including a 1.1-litre three-cylinder turbodiesel with lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions than any other non electric car on sale in the world, including hybrids and eco specials from rival companies.

Fitted with 15-inch wheels and the full range of Kia's EcoDynamics technologies – including start-stop, low rolling resistance tyres, a drag-reducing front grille, gearshift indicator and rear spoiler – this model is capable of 88.3 mpg (official combined), with CO2 emissions of only 85 g/km. EcoDynamics technologies will be a standard feature with all new Rio diesels.

Yet with 74 bhp and 170 Nm of torque from 1,500 rpm, it delivers sprightly performance. All 1.1-litre diesel versions of the new Rio five-door have CO2 emissions below 100 g/km and an official combined cycle fuel economy of at least 74.3 mpg.

There are two petrol engines in the new Rio. The entry-level unit is the 1.25-litre Kappa engine which recently made its debut in Kia's smallest car, the new Picanto. This engine develops 83 bhp and 121 Nm of torque. A 1.4-litre Gamma engine is also available, developing 107 bhp and 137 Nm of torque.

Even on entry level '1', standard features include daytime running lights, body-coloured bumpers, speed-variable front wipers, front electric windows, a height-adjustable driver's seat, two-way steering column adjustment on the petrol model, a tachometer and trip computer, split folding rear seats and an MP3-compatible RDS radio and CD player with USB and AUX ports.

The '2' is distinguished by 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and a chrome radiator grille surround. Inside, there is premium black cloth upholstery, rear electric windows, electrically adjustable heated and folding door mirrors and leather trim on the steering wheel.

The luxurious level '3' specification adds 17-inch alloys with low-profile tyres, ultraviolet-reducing solar privacy glass, LED daytime running and rear combination lamps, automatic air conditioning, rain sensing wipers, cruise control, automatic headlights, heated front seats and six speakers in lieu of four.

Every new Rio, as with all Kias, is covered by an extended seven year or 100,000 miles warranty which is fully transferable to subsequent owners.

The UK model line-up economy and pricing:

Newspress