KIA’S new Rio mini hatchback: Good looks and hi-tech

The latest version of Korea’s bestseller revealed

The 2016 Kia Rio that was launched at the Paris motor show.

KIA’S new Rio mini hatchback will reach Australian showrooms in January, wearing prices every bit as affordable as the current model. The fourth generation of Kia’s global bestseller was officially revealed at the Paris motor show.

Studios in Germany and the US shaped the new Rio and its exterior especially has a European flavour. The car is slightly larger than before. Inside, the Kia features a central high-resolution touchscreen, supporting improved audio, navigation and connectivity.

The good looks and hi-tech may be tempting but it will be best to wait at least a year to buy a new Rio. This is when the little Kia will receive some significant upgrades to improve fuel efficiency and enhance safety.

Initial imports of the made-in-Korea hatch will come with a dated 1.4-litre non-turbo engine and an old-fashioned four-speed automatic.

From 2018 Kia plans to fit the Rio with the same 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder engine as sold in European markets, teamed with a seven-speed double-clutch auto.

Autonomous emergency braking will be available at the same time. This advanced safety technology is still rare in the Rio’s market class.