"with the latest styling, improved equipment levels and gutsy 1.4-litre engine, Kia have created a very desirable package"
Designed specifically for European tastes, this Rio's shape, although not earth-shatteringly original, is certainly more Focus-like in appearance than its predecessor and larger too. In size terms alone, this model easily out classes the opposition. One of the key problems of the old car was that from a styling perspective, it didn't seem to know quite what it wanted to be. It seemed to hover somewhere between a hatch and an estate, but the latest Rio sharpens up the look quite significantly. In fact, it's almost what you could call good looking, sporting a smart, neat family face.
Everything about this Kia Rio has been redesigned. That styling, for example, should go down well, featuring as it does a bolder nose, a more dynamic profile and a neater interior. Comfort-wise, there's more headroom, legroom and shoulder room, especially in the rear. In 1.4-litre petrol form, the Rio features much stronger refinement than Kia have been able to offer in the past, courtesy of sleeker aerodynamics, a stronger structure and greatly enhanced NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) measures.
The 1.4-litre DOHC 16-valve petrol engine is a gutsy performer and will launch this supermini from rest to 62mph in a very sprightly 12.3 seconds. The top speed of 111mph is achieved courtesy of the 96bhp developed by this power unit. This too is better than most other 1.4-litre engines in this sector that typically average 75 to 80bhp. Despite this impressive performance, the Rio produces just 150g/m of CO2, and with a combined economy figure of 44.8mpg, it is certainly a hard one to fault when it comes to running costs. Moreover, the DOHC 16-valve engine delivers 92.5lb ft of torque at just 4,700 rpm, which makes for very relaxed driving with less need to use the standard five-speed manual gearbox.
A four-speed automatic, specifically developed for the Rio, is an option only with this petrol-engined model. It features an electronic controller, which monitors a range of parameters including acceleration, deceleration, engine speed and road speed, ensuring smooth gear changes. It also adapts the transmission's characteristics to suit individual driving styles.
Some things never change though. The Rio 5-door hatch still revels in its shameless affordability, with prices starting at £7,495 for the entry-level S model. The GS is only £500 more and includes central locking, air-conditioning, electric front windows, power-assisted steering, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and twin front airbags as part of its standard specification. This impressive list is only spoilt by what appears to be an 'after market' JVC MP3 compatible radio/CD player. The only other trim level - LS - adds 15-inch alloy wheels, body-coloured door handles and mirrors, front fog lights, rear electric windows, side and curtain airbags, active head restraints and remote central locking with perimeter alarm. There's also an optional Dynamic pack that includes a rear spoiler, sunroof and an Electronic Stability Programme for additional safety.
The latest 3,990 mm long Rio hatchback is taller (+50 mm), wider (+15 mm) but shorter (-250 mm) than the model it replaces. The car also has a much longer wheelbase (+90 mm) which, combined with careful packaging of the mechanical components, enables it to claim 'best-in-class' interior space for maximum occupant comfort.
The Kia's wheelbase is between 9mm and 40mm longer than rivals like Volkswagen's Polo, Skoda's Fabia, Ford's Fiesta and Vauxhall's Corsa, while its overall width is from 12mm to 49mm wider. The overall length is between 30mm and 168mm longer than those potential supermini rivals.
This Rio is a surprisingly tight-feeling package on the road, with a reasonably taut suspension set up that keeps body roll well in check. Whereas the old car was pretty entertaining but somewhat crashy, the latest model's revised suspension geometry offers a little more refinement over ruts and potholes without sacrificing the fun factor. Indeed, the Rio 1.4-litre is a good sport to hustle about, the rack and pinion steering is light and accurate; something that has defeated the best efforts of many more prestigious manufacturers.
Kia have taken the industry by surprise by charging the same money for this Rio 1.4-litre petrol as an equivalent 1.5-litre diesel model with the same trim level. They argue that it made no sense to charge cost-conscious buyers a premium for buying a diesel-powered car. It will be interesting to see if this enterprising view is subsequently shared by other manufacturers in their pricing structures.
Overall, the Kia Rio 1.4-litre 16-valve is quite a surprise. It is much roomier than the competition and with the latest styling, improved equipment levels and gutsy 1.4-litre engine, Kia have created a very desirable package. The Koreans have obviously invested a lot of time and effort in targeting the Rio for the European market and once word gets around, the 1.4-litre version ought to become a petrol supermini buyers shouldn't ignore.
Facts At A Glance
CAR: Kia Rio 1.4-litre 16-valve range
PRICES: £7,495-£10,045 - on the road
INSURANCE GROUPS: 4D-5D
CO2 EMISSIONS:150g/km
PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 12.3s / Max Speed 111mph
FUEL CONSUMPTION: 44.8mpg (combined)
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: length/width/height mm 3990/1695/1470
