Kia Rio 1.4 EX

Hi all,

I tried searching for similar threads but the search won't allow three words or less.

I have been wanting to buy a Kia Rio and went to test drive one yesterday - they only had the 1.4 tec to test but the differences are nothing I need or want so the EX model will be fine for me.

One thing I asked about was the 17" alloys you get on the tec. In the brochures it states the 17" alloys are optional on the 1.4 EX for R3000. When I asked about this the saleslady told me it is not available as an option.

Has anyone seen or heard otherwise? Does anyone own a 1.4 EX and has had the 17" alloys fitted?

I will find out from a few other branches tomorrow but wanted to ask now so long. Also no one needs to tell me the 15" higher profiles will be better, I just like the 17"

Other than that the car was very nice to drive and seems a good buy.

Thanks!

I bought an EX with the optional 17inch mags in Feb 2012.
So they talking crap, probably just don't have stock.

The tyres for 17 inch rims are generally more expensive than 15 inch tyres and lower profile tyres are not as comfortable on rough surfaces.
Also lower profile tyres tend to get damaged more easily and also the rims get bent more easily on potholes since there is less material to cushion the impact.
I'd go with 15 inch and higher profile if I was in your position. Practicality and cost before looks.

Edit: I priced 16 and 17 inch alloy rims from Kia and they were between R3000 and R4000 per rim so even more reason to stick to higher profile tyres on 15 inch rims. The rim straightening companies don't always do a good job.

Agree with Paul.
I was quoted R20k to upgrade from the 16" to the 17" on my Cerato when I bought it new in 2010.

I know the higher profiles will be better but I tested the tec with the 17" rims and it was comfortable - I didn't think to myself that I wish it had higher profile tyres.

So for me that's not an issue. I just wanted to know if they do offer them optional and it seems they do, I was just told otherwise. It is only R3000 extra.

Thanks Hendrix, will find out from other dealers.

Thanks guys!

Honestly, EX with the 17" makes no sense... If you add R3000 for the rims then the tec is only around R8000 more. Thats R8000 for leather seats, LEDs, side + curtain airbags, rear parking assist, cooled glove box and rain sensing wipers. In my opinion, just go Tec

It is R10 000 difference which is quite a bit. I have thought about going for the TEC but I honestly don't have a need for all the extra things.
The only things I like are the 17" rims and the LED's and I can get the 17" rims on the EX.

If I could get a good deal on the TEC I would but then if I got a deal on the EX even better. Kia don't seem to do deals on the Rio as it is on a waiting list and they know it will sell.

When you are spending so much on a new car a difference of R8000 should be nothing... The Tec will also hold its value a lot better has it is by far the most in demand.