Thefourth-generation Kia Rio will be shown at the upcoming Paris Motor Show at the end of September 2016 and will usher in progressive styling as well as improved ride and handling.

Kia’s stylish and popular Rio hatchback is due for replacement and the all-new model will be shown in the metal in Paris on 29 September 2016.

As was the case before, expect the new Rio to be one of the most attractive offerings in its segment. The fresh exterior and interior designwas led by Kia’s design centres in Germany and the United States (California) in collaboration with Kia’s main design centre in Namyang, South Korea.

Exterior design details

The next-generation Rio features ‘straight lines and smooth surfacing’ according to Kia, and will feature a longer bonnet and front overhang, as well as a longer wheelbase and upright C-pillar. The 'tiger-nose' grille has been tweaked to be narrower and wider while the projection headlights are thinner and slimmer than before, with a new U-shaped LED lighting signature. The fog lights on the new Rio have also been pushed outwards, placing emphasis on the width of the car, which has increased by 5 mm compared to the outgoing model.

The wheelbase has been stretched by 10 mm and the Rio's overall length has grown by 15 mm, sitting some 5 mm lower than before. The rear-end is more upright with a shorter overhang and a near-vertical rear windscreen. The rear headlights are also sleeker with a new arrow-shaped lighting signature.

Kia has also stated that the new Rio will offer class-leading practicality and safety technology. More than this, the ride and handling characteristics will improve too and you can expect to see the latest connectivity features present when the new model arrives.

Interior design details

The new Rio will feature a redesigned cabin with improved ergonomic quality. Much like the exterior treatment, straight lines across the dashboard emphasise width and creates a sense of space in the cabin. The dashboard is angled towards the driver and features a new 'floating', high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system that will house the radio, navigation and connectivity functionality. As a result, the number of buttons present inside the new Rio have been reduced.

A choice of either black or grey cloth upholstery will be on offer, as well as black or grey artificial leather. Buyers can also opt for a 'Red Pack' that includes black and red trimmed artificialleather seats. The Rio's cabin styling is rounded off with gloss black and metallic trim.

The Rio is Kia’s best-selling model worldwide with 2015 sales totalling more than 473000 units. Production of the new Rio will begin at the end of 2016 (for Europe) and you can expect to see the new Rio in South Africa in 2017.

We will be at the 2016 Paris Motor Showso look for updates and more information in the next few weeks!

Get the latest Paris Motor Show news here!

Read a review of the 2015 Kia Rio 1.4 Tec here

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