2017 Kia Rio (4th Generation)

Last I checked an A1 is not in remotely the same price bracket as the Rio.

So the difference in price would probably negate the savings in fuel anyway.

The A1 was launched in 2010, my point was that in 7 years, KIA should have caught up to offer similar fuel economy. My Opel Adam which is in the same price bracket also managed 5.2 L/100km very easily....
 
The A1 was launched in 2010, my point was that in 7 years, KIA should have caught up to offer similar fuel economy. My Opel Adam which is in the same price bracket also managed 5.2 L/100km very easily....

Then Kia needs to smack on a turbo like both those cars which has its own complexities.
 
Then Kia needs to smack on a turbo like both those cars which has its own complexities.

I honestly just think they are selling outdated engines.... Even my 1.4 naturally aspirated Fiesta averaged better fuel economy than what I've seen to be the average on Fuelly as well as some other quick research done, and I don't have the lightest foot either...
 
Yep, at nearly 300k, both Kia and Hyundai are smoking the goodstuff. Expect a lot better interiors for that price. The cheaper clio's and pug 208's offer a lot more, for a lot less
 
I honestly just think they are selling outdated engines.... Even my 1.4 naturally aspirated Fiesta averaged better fuel economy than what I've seen to be the average on Fuelly as well as some other quick research done, and I don't have the lightest foot either...

I think the problem dies more with the gearbox, but yeah it's generally older tech all round.
 
REVIEW: Kia plays ball with new Rio

Earlier in 2017, Kia launched its new Rio in South Africa and it immediately found favour with local motorists. The Rio, designed and built for city life, sells around 500 units locally each month and has been a contender in the monthly list for top 10 passenger cars on a regular basis.

And that’s no mean feat, considering the vast list of vehicle options SA buyers can choose from. Up against the likes of the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo, the Rio has its work cut out in terms of offering a package that can compete against the best.

Kia knows this, which is why the automaker has made its city car a more complete offering in its tightly contested segment. Sporting a fancy shade of blue and striking 17” rims, the Rio 1.4 Tec arrived for a short stint to show whether or not Kia has hit the mark with its new hatchback.

Non-turbo engine

A naturally aspirated engine does duty under the bonnet, driving power to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. Given the trend by manufacturers to implement turbocharged technology on their engines, it is somewhat strange to see Kia go the non-turbo route. With only 74kW and 135Nm of torque, the 1.4-litre engine delivers varying levels of performance.

Around town the Rio is a comfortable car to drive. It has some oomph to move from robot to robot swiftly, while managing to not tire your left foot with a heavy clutch. The Rio does not shy away from doing the daily run to the office or the quick sprint to the store, and there is rarely the sense that the car will suffer from a performance deficit; given its lack of a turbocharger.

Though it performs well in the city, it’s a different story with a full boot on the open road. Gradually increasing speeds, the Rio will run without hassle at 120km/h. And when sixth gear is hooked, the car will plod along and average between 6.0 and 7.0-litres/100km with regards to fuel. When a hill looms in the distance, it’s best to switch to a lower gear (fifth, maybe even fourth) to ascend inclines with enough momentum.

Compared against some of the competition that offer turbocharged engines in the same price range, the lack of lowdown grunt hurts the little Rio. On the suspension the Rio’s front has enough grip and there is sufficient feedback through the steering wheel. It inspires enough confidence on the open road with little to no steering numbness. But it’s the rear suspension that lets the ride down a bit. On some backroads it felt a bit uneasy, lively and a tad too jumpy. Overall, though, the Rio’s ride is comfortable.

Comfort and features

To better understand what the Rio has to offer, one has to look at two of its direct rivals: the aforementioned Fiesta and Polo.

Specifically the Fiesta 1.0 T Titanium (R265 900) and Polo 1.2 T Highline (R278 600). At R274 995, the Rio 1.4 Tec is a rather well-rounded offering in terms of the technology and features it has on board.

For starters, both the Fiesta and Polo offer cloth upholstery (leather optional) opposed to the Rio’s standard leather. All three vehicles have all-round electric windows but only the Rio and Fiesta offer climate control/automatic air con (optional on Polo).

The Rio and Fiesta also offer voice control. When it comes to making that perfect parking manoeuvre, only the Rio offers a rear view camera. This feature is optional on the Polo, but not available on the Fiesta.

On the safety front, the Rio offers six airbags while the Fiesta offers seven. The Polo? It offers four airbags, but at a cost Volkswagen will increase this to six. The Fiesta and Polo offer stability control whereas the Rio does not. And for the number junkies amongst us, the Fiesta’s 1.0-litre engine offers 92kW/170Nm and the Polo’s 1.2-litre 81kW/175Nm. Both these engines feature turbo technology.

Verdict

Kia has come a long way the last decade or so. Gone are the days when Kia was not given a second thought, but instead, nowadays, it is often the preferred vehicle over many of the established players. And the Rio is testament to that.

Though it doesn’t run with the Polo and Fiesta when it comes to monthly sales figures, it does offer a package that may just offer greater value for money.

The Rio’s ride is not as pleasant as, for example, the Polos, but it does not take away from the fact that the little Rio is as competent as the market leaders. All things considered, the Rio can dance with the big boys.

http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels/review-kia-plays-ball-with-new-rio-20180118
 
Ice cube LED's yo!

Kia Rio GT-Line

Kia has revealed the first images of the new Rio GT-Line, ahead of its public debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. The Rio is the latest model to be available in GT-Line specification, following the recent introduction of Sportage, Picanto and Sorento GT-Line models.

Broadening the appeal of Kia's global bestselling B-segment hatchback, the new Rio GT-Line boasts versatility, a responsive turbocharged engine and engaging handling with a sporty look inside and out.

The Kia Rio GT-Line is powered by Kia's 1.0-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) engine, a responsive powertrain that provides willing acceleration and contributes to the car's dynamic handling characteristics thanks to its light weight.

Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer for Kia Motors Europe, commented: "The Rio is one of Kia's best selling cars globally, and we have already sold more than 54,000 units of the new model in Europe after it went on sale in the first quarter of 2017. The new GT-Line specification enhances the car's desirability and will help grow Rio sales in 2018 and beyond, thanks to its range of comfort and safety features, superb versatility, and confident, sporty styling."

The new Kia Rio GT-Line arrives in UK showrooms during the spring 2018.

Design: new GT styling cues

The Rio's sporty five-door exterior introduces stylish new design features, such as a gloss-black and chrome 'tiger-nose' grille, unique GT-Line 17-inch alloy wheels, and 'ice-cube' LED fog lamps, echoing those of the cee'd GT and pro_cee'd GT. The exterior is finished with twin exhaust tips, LED daytime running lights, chrome window trim, a gloss black roof spoiler and sill highlights.

The interior merges the Rio's modern styling, sculptural forms, and ergonomics with a series of unique GT-Line features, creating a cabin to match the more athletic exterior. The seats are finished in black synthetic leather and cloth with contrast grey stitching, while drivers are presented with a new 'D-cut' leather steering wheel. New metallic trim surrounds the door switches and gear lever, and the dashboard complements this with a new carbon fibre-effect finish.

Powertrain: Efficient 1.0-litre T-GDi engine with low emissions and instant response

The lightweight, compact and eager three-cylinder 1.0-litre T-GDi engine provides the Kia Rio GT-Line with its peak 118 bhp at 6,000 rpm, with 171 Nm of torque available from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm for maximum flexibility in all road conditions. The relatively low mass over the front axle ensures the Rio remains fun to drive, with minimal inertia facilitating responsive, engaging handling. The Rio GT-Line is capable of 60.1 mpg, with CO2 emissions of 107 g/km. It is paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

From Q3 2018, the Kia Rio GT-Line will also be available with naturally-aspirated 1.25- or 1.4-litre petrol MPi (multi-point injection) engines, and Kia's seven-speed double clutch transmission.

https://www.netcarshow.com/kia/2018-rio_gt-line/

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Say hello to the new, sportily styled Kia Rio GT-Line…

Kia has unveiled the GT-Line version of its new Rio hatchback, which is scheduled to debut at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show.

Initially powered by the Korean automaker’s 1,0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, the new Rio GT-Line cuts a sportily styled figure. The brand says the new model will later become available in Europe with its familiar naturally aspirated 1,2- and 1,4-litre petrol units, as well as the option of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

So, will it come to South Africa? Well, Kia Motors South Africa told CARmag.co.za that European markets would “get preference” for this latest model, adding that “at this point in time, no information is available on whether it will be made available to South Africa”.

However, the brand’s local distributor added that “if it is made available to us – and especially with the 1,0 T-GDi engine – we will most definitely do our best to launch it locally”.

The turbo-triple 1,0-litre mill makes 88 kW at 6 000 r/min, with 171 N.m of torque served up between 1 500 and 4 000 r/min. It is paired with a six-speed manual transmission as standard.

The new Rio GT-Line sets itself apart from its more basic siblings thanks to a gloss-black and chrome front grille, model-specific 17-inch alloys and special LED foglamps. You’ll also notice twin exhaust outlets, LED daytime running lights, chrome window trim, a gloss-black roof spoiler and gloss-black treatment for the side-skirts.

Inside, the seats are finished in black synthetic leather and cloth with contrasting grey stitching, while drivers enjoy a new leather steering wheel. Fresh metallic trim surrounds the door switches and gear lever, while the facia gains a new faux-carbon-fibre finish.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/say-hello-to-the-new-sportily-styled-kia-rio-gt-line/
 
I find it strange considering how big of a market SA is for Kia that it is not bringing in it's more premium feeling models, such as the GT-Line. But as it goes for SA we always get the stripped-pay-through-your-ar$e-for-optional-extra's that are otherwise standard in other markets
 
Kia Rio GT-Line showcased at the Geneva Motor Show

Kia has unveiled a GT-Line version of the South African favourite, the Rio, at the Geneva Motor Show.

The Kia Rio GT-Line will sport a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine that will produce 88kW/171Nm through a six-speed manual transmission gearbox.

Kia South Africa says there is no information as yet whether the Rio GT-Line will be made available locally.

The GT-Line is also available with Kia's new Driver Attention Warning (DAW) system, designed to combat distracted or drowsy drivers. The system monitors several inputs from the vehicle and the driver, and sounds a warning chime and displays a graphic in the instrument binnacle if it senses a lapse in concentration from the driver.

Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer for Kia Motors Europe, says: "The Rio is one of Kia's best selling cars globally, and we have already sold more than more than 54 000 units of the new model in Europe after it went on sale in the first quarter of 2017.

"The new GT-Line specification enhances the car’s desirability and will help grow Rio sales in 2018 and beyond, thanks to its range of comfort and safety features, superb versatility, and confident, sporty styling.

Technology, safety and versatility

The Rio GT-Line is available with many features familiar to current Rio owners, including standard aluminium pedals and bi-projection headlamps, which turn into corners as the driver turns the steering wheel.

The optional large 7" ‘floating’ touchscreen HMI (human-machine interface) includes navigation, and Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ for full smartphone integration. A rear-view parking camera, heated steering wheel, and heated seats are also available.

The new Rio is the safest B-segment car Kia has ever made, featuring an Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS)-body construction and six airbags fitted as standard (front, front side, and curtain). With a five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating when fitted with optional ADAS technology, the Rio offers Forward Collision-avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian recognition.

The Rio’s FCA system uses a long-range radar detection system to detect potential collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians and helps bring the car to a halt*. FCA is paired with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), which alerts the driver if they stray out of their lane without the use of indicators. Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) will also be available to buyers from Q3 2018.

http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels...e-showcased-at-the-geneva-motor-show-20180308

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Kia Rio 1.0 T-GDi GT-Line 2018 UK review

Should I buy one?

In its lower trim levels, the Rio is a competent and practical supermini that can accommodate rear passengers more comfortably than its major rivals. It just lacks a level of driver engagement to truly make it stand out.

The extra power and sharper looks of the GT-Line go a small way to addressing that, but with the rest of the package largely unchanged, it still feels a little outclassed against more entertaining competition - especially at a price that’s roughly on par with the Fiesta ST-Line.

The GT-Line may include a respectable amount of standard kit, but it doesn’t deliver the dynamic driving experience of a truly great supermini.

Kia Rio 1.0 T-GDi GT-Line specification

Tested Kent Price £17,010 On sale Now Engine 998cc, 3cyls, turbocharged, petrol Power118bhp at 6000rpm Torque 126lb ft at 1500-4000rpm Gearbox 6-spd manual Kerb weight1160kg Top speed 118mph 0-62mph 9.8sec Fuel economy 55.4mpg CO2 117g/km Rivals Ford Fiesta ST-Line, Renault Clio GT-Line

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/kia/rio/first-drives/kia-rio-10-t-gdi-gt-line-2018-uk-review

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Finally!

Kia SA upgrades Rio hatchback to six-speed automatic

Kia Motors South Africa has upgraded each of the three self-shifting derivatives in its fourth-generation Rio hatchback range from the previous four-speed to a new six-speed automatic transmission.

The local arm of the Korean automaker says this new torque-converter gearbox not only affords the hatch a “smoother driving experience”, but also results in improved performance (the sedan, meanwhile, sticks with the old four-speed item).

Mated to the brand’s naturally aspirated 1,4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (which generates an unchanged 74 kW/135 N.m), the new transmission improves the claimed zero to 100 km/h sprint by three-tenths to 12,9 seconds. Top speed, meanwhile, increases from 166 km/h to 175 km/h.

As before, the seven-strong Rio hatch range kicks off with the 1,2 LS (which features a five-speed manual), while the remaining six variants employ the aforementioned 1,4-litre linked to either a six-speed manual or the new automatic gearbox. Three trim levels (LX, EX and Tec) are again available, with small price increases made across the range.

Standard features in the Rio 1,4 LX include air-conditioning, electric windows, electric side-mirrors, central locking (with an alarm and immobiliser), a six-speaker audio system, a rear-sited USB charging port, automatic headlamps, front foglamps, LED daytime running lights and 15-inch alloy wheels.

The Rio 1,4 EX adds projection headlamps and LED rear combination lamps, as well as a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system that incorporates a reversing camera (plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality).

The flagship Rio 1,4 Tec, meanwhile, boasts 17-inch alloys, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, an electrochromatic rear-view mirror, alloy pedals and leather upholstery. An optional sunroof is furthermore available for Tec derivatives for an additional R8 000.

A five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty in included. The base Rio 1,2 LS comes with a two-year/30 000 km service plan as standard, while the 1,4 models offer a four-year/60 000 km arrangement.

Pricing:

Kia Rio 1,2 LS: R230 995
Kia Rio 1,4 LX: R247 995
Kia Rio 1,4 LX AT: R264 995
Kia Rio 1,4 EX: R261 995
Kia Rio 1,4 EX AT: R278 995
Kia Rio 1,4 Tec: R288 995
Kia Rio 1,4 Tec AT: R305 995

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/kia-sa-upgrades-rio-hatchback-to-six-speed-automatic/
 
Kia's Rio gets a new six-speed automatic gearbox

Let’s face it: four-speed automatic gearboxes certainly have a place in the world, but that place happens to be the automotive museum.

Yet there are still a few cars out there that feature such a configuration, albeit quite understandable in the ultra price-sensitive sub-R200 000 hatch market, but perhaps less so among more premium compact hatchbacks like the Kia Rio, which are gunning for a slice of the Polo pie.

Thankfully Kia has just upped its game in that regard, by replacing the four-speed automatic gearbox that was previously offered as an option on its 1.4-litre Rio models with a brand new six-speed unit, which is also a conventional torque converter unit.

Priced between R264 995 and R305 995 (see full list below), the new auto models command a small premium of R3000 over the outgoing four-speed equivalents.

The normally aspirated 1.4-litre engine continues unchanged with outputs of 74kW and 135Nm, but the gearbox does perk up overall performance levels, with the claimed 0-100km/h sprint time improving from 13.2 to 12.9 seconds and top speed from 166 to 175km/h.

Kia is known for offering its cars with a good spread of automatic models and that continues to ring true with the new Rio six-speeders, the auto option still available in three spec grades: LX, EX and TEC.

LX offers the basics like aircon, central locking, electric mirrors and a conventional radio linked to steering-mounted controls. EX adds things like a 17.8cm touchscreen system with reverse camera as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. TEC ups the game with leather upholstery, cruise control, rain sensing wipers as well as larger (and machine-finished) 17-inch alloys, among other additions.

All models are sold with a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, and 1.4-litre Rios have a four-year / 60 000km service plan while the 1.2 LS makes do with a two-year/30 000km plan.

KIA RIO PRICES

1.2 LS 5-speed manual R230 995
1.4 LX 6-speed manual R247 995
1.4 LX 6-speed automatic R264 995
1.4 EX 6-speed manual R261 995
1.4 EX 6-speed automatic R278 995
1.4 TEC 6-speed manual R288 995
1.4 TEC 6-speed automatic R305 995

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/late...ts-a-new-six-speed-automatic-gearbox-18460819
 
About bloody time!

Hopefully filters down to all the cars in time.

Would like to see the 1.0T engines locally as well.
 
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