As with all of Kia’s latest models, the new Rio 1,4 TEC builds on the solid reputation of the popular previous version. We took it out on a test drive.
The design of the new Rio is safe as it doesn’t change the older version too much, but Kia did manage to give it a more fashionable and stylish look. The new front grille is quite eye-catching while our test car’s LED daytime running lights and striking 17-inch alloys added even more flair to its overall appearance.
The new Rio is also 15mm longer and 5mm lower which gives more cabin and boot space.
As the TEC is the range-topper, it comes packed with features such as the easy-to-use 7-inch touchscreen display, which impressed us greatly. It is one of the best multimedia systems in its price range. It features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apps, as well as Bluetooth, USB and auxiliary connections, a rear-view camera with park distance control, cruise control and leather seats.
For safety, there are six airbags, ABS and electronic stability control.
The Rio TEC has 325 litres of boot space – much more than the Polo’s 280 litres.
What is clear with the Rio is that Kia is focused on a quality build. The fit and finish are top notch.
The test Rio used Kia’s 1,4-litre naturally-aspirated engine. Although it doesn’t have the performance of the turbopetrol engines its rivals use, it is a tried-and-tested engine – even if you need to work the gears hard to accelerate or overtake another vehicle – that only uses about seven litres of fuel every 100km.
The new Rio impressed us with its ride. It was smooth with little road noise in the cabin. It made the driving experience pleasant and adds to the overall premium impression of the car too.
There is little to fault with the new Rio and it promises to be another success story for Kia.
Like before, it is still value for money because you do get a quality vehicle. The Rio TEC is backed by Kia’s five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and four-year/60 000km service plan.
FACTBOX
Model: Kia Rio TEC
Price: R274 995
Engine: 1,4-litre petrol
Power: 74 kW / 6 300 r/min
Torque: 135 Nm / 4 200 r/min
Zero to 100km/h: 11,5 seconds
