Kia Motors South Africa has introduced the latest iteration of the Rio compact hatchback into the local market. The model line-up comprises 4 derivatives powered by either 1.2- or 1.4-litre petrol engines, all of which are backed by a 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and 4-year/60 000 km service plan. Herewith the specifications…

We first got acquainted with the new Rio in Australia in January:Kia Rio (2017) International First Drive

The range begins with the 1.2 LS, which is powered by a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated motor that produces peak outputs of 62 kW and 120 Nm,emits 135 g/km and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. This entry-level offering rides on 15-inch steel wheels, but features body-coloured bumpers.

The fascia of the new Rio is dominated by the 7-inch touchscreen on the 1.4 EX and 1.4 TEC derivatives.

In terms of interior features, the 1.2 LS comes equipped with air-conditioning, electric windows and side mirrors, a multifunction steering wheel with rake- and reach-adjustable column, a 4-speaker Radio/RDS/MP3 audio system with auxiliary and USB ports as well as Bluetooth connectivity, central locking (in conjunction with alarm and immobiliser), plus aremote boot unlocking feature. The rear seatback splits and folds in a 60/40 configuration.

The next derivative is the 1.4 LX, which is powered by a 1.4 litre naturally aspirated motor that produces peak outputs of 74 kW and 135 Nm, and mated with either with a 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The derivative rides on 15-inch alloy rims.

The 1.4 TEC derivative can be differentiated by 17-inch alloys and LED combination tail light clusters.

The LX specification adds electricfolding mirrors with integrated indicator lenses, automatically activated headlamps, fog lights, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearknob, centre console armrest, a 3.5 inch LCD dashboard information display and UV-protection solar windscreen glass.

The second-from-the-top 1.4 EX is also available in manual and automatic guises, includes visual upgrades in the shapes of projection-type headlamps with LED daytime running light and positioning lamps. The interior benefits from a 7-inch touchscreen infotainmentsystem that is Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatible, plus a reverse-view camera (with dynamic guidelines), as well as a rear parking assist system.

Rear luggage space is impressive considering that full-sized spare wheels are supplied with every derivative.

Finally, the flagship of the range is 1.4 TEC derivative, which is shod with eye-catching 17-inch alloys. The 1.4 TEC is also available in manual and automatic guises and over and above the specification of the 1.4 EX, the derivative comes equipped withLED tail lights, full leather trim, climate control, alloy pedals, a sunroof, rain-sensing wipers and auto-dipping rear view mirror.

In terms of safety, all derivatives come equipped with ABS, dual front airbags and ISOfix child seat mounting points, while the 1.4 TEC benefits from side- and curtain airbags as well.

Kia Rio prices in South Africa (June 2017)

All prices include a 5-year/unlimIted kilometres warranty, 4-year/60 000 km service plan and 5-year unlimited kilometres roadside assistance.

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Kia Rio (2017) International First Drive

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