2012 kia rio With the 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door, Kia has proven that reasonably priced subcompact cars don't have to suck. Read on to learn more on the 2012
With the 2012 Kia Rio, Kia has proven that reasonably priced subcompact cars don't have to suck. The Rio name has been around since 2001, and before the 2012 model year arrived, the Rio hadn't been redesigned since 2006. This year's all-new car, available as a sedan or a five-door hatch, has a new look that gives it more edge and attitude. The Rio is based on essentially the same platform as the Hyundai Accent, but is very different visually. This is without a doubt the best-looking Rio ever, and a far cry from the rental-car appliance previous generation models had become.
The Rio small sedan and hatch's new to the Rio platform has a longer wheelbase -- 101.2 inches as opposed to the outgoing car's 98.4 -- and the hatch is wider by 1 inch, longer by 1.2 inches, and sits 0.6-inch lower. The Rio 5-door (the name also changed for 2012) may be longer than the 2011 Rio5, but its overall length is 12.6 inches shorter than the 2012 Rio sedan. The increased 5-door size means more headroom and legroom in front.
The fourth-generation Kia Rio, revealed at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, boasts a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the latest model into line with the rest of Kia's striking design-led product range.
In addition to appealing to consumers' aesthetic tastes, the new Kia Rio will spearhead the company's efforts to significantly grow its market share across the globe by offering potential owners industry-leading environmental credentials.
Target CO2 emissions for the model range start at just 85 g/km - representing a new industry-wide low. This impressive figure places the B-segment Kia Rio ahead of all other models in its class and even all vehicles currently on sale in the entire European market.
Tasked with the difficult job of improving upon the remarkable international sales success of the previous generation model, Kia's engineers and designers have created a new Rio which combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that also communicates Latin flair, for a truly global appeal.
"The Kia Rio has always been successful, and with this new incarnation we have a car which is extremely attractive with a fresh feeling of sportiness - a car that people will want to buy for its looks, as well as its environmental credentials" comments Benny Oeyen, Vice President Marketing and Product Planning, Kia Motors Europe.
Since its launch in 2005, global sales of the third-generation Kia Rio have totalled more than 860,000 units. It was the company's third best-selling vehicle in overseas markets during 2010 with sales of more than 219,000 units.
The new Kia Rio model is longer (by 20 mm), wider (by 25 mm), and lower (by -15 mm) and features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm) - greatly enhancing passenger space and cargo capacity. With an overall height of 1,455 mm, new Kia Rio is one of the lowest cars in Kia's European product range.
Manufactured for the first time with a choice of 5-door and 3-door bodystyles (in Europe), new Kia Rio is set to completely redefine its position as one of the most competitive vehicles in one of the most competitive sectors - the B-segment.
Kia's market research predicts that global demand for B-segment cars is going to grow significantly over the next two years.
With two bodystyles for sporty new Kia Rio - plus the already popular Soul and Venga models appealing to people who want to stand out from the crowd or need a spacious and versatile compact MPV - Kia is confident of capturing a larger share of this growing market segment.
To lower fuel consumption and help achieve Kia Rio's class-leading emissions, Kia engineers have carried out an extensive programme to shed weight across a broad range of components. As a result, although new Kia Rio is a significantly larger car than the third-generation model with extra equipment, its weight-gain has been kept to a minimum.
The 5-door version of new Kia Rio will go on sale in Europe during the third quarter of 2011 with the all-new 3-door model joining Kia's B-segment line-up in the first quarter of 2012. Both versions will be manufactured exclusively at Kia's Sohari plant in Korea.
'Premium presence' for compact new car
With new Rio, Kia has created a car that answers consumer demand for more quality, more choice, and attractive, exciting design.
This new car is no evolution of its predecessor, it is a revolution. The bold and distinctive personality of the new Kia Rio represents a complete departure from its predecessor and fits perfectly into the revitalized new family of Kia products.
Viewed head on, new Kia Rio has its own unique interpretation of the Kia corporate grille which is integrated beautifully with the front lamps to create a new twist on the Kia family look. In this latest form, the Kia logo now sits above the grille. Below the grille, the treatment of front bumper and spoiler again shows signs of the Kia design DNA, with its distinctive on-road presence. In profile, the ratio of body to glass, combined with the car's strong wedge form, give Kia Rio a dynamic, sporty stance. So Rio has now been given a completely fresh personality which perfectly complements its siblings Picanto and Venga.
Kia Rio shows its connection with the Sportage, too, through its strong and stable rear, flowing C-pillar, dominant high shoulder and fast rear screen angle. The coupe-like roof-line contrasts dramatically with the strong and static rear bumper and gives a power and solidity to the rear view.
This bold but elegant appearance is strengthened by the distinctive feature line which adds tension to the flanks and accentuates the dynamic stance of the car. The careful balance of window graphic, wheelbase and overall proportion give Kia Rio a refinement and premium presence which is rare in the B-segment.
To maximise the impact of Kia Rio´s striking appearance is a fresh new palette of 10 body colours. Kia's colour and trim team have developed a spectrum of exclusive colours for Rio which underline its refined and stylish character. These include a Wendy Brown and a Graphite Grey, both colours with a classic premium flavour.
With the introduction of the new Rio, the Kia product portfolio has just taken the next important step towards becoming a family of vehicles which has an attractive and coherent brand style but still manages to retain individual product character.
To complement the striking exterior, Kia Rio's interior design has also been transformed, with a clean sophisticated theme. The concept follows the corporate Kia interior philosophy with the characteristic horizontal instrument panel, accentuating the feeling of width and space. It is a theme which cleverly combines chic modernity with rationality and achieves a calm timeless quality.
The quality and refinement of interior materials and the attention to detail in fit and finish have been design priorities for new Kia Rio.
As in other recently-launched Kia models, the signature interior architecture - with its 'three cylinder' instrument cluster, precise instrument graphics and clear functionality - have been retained. New for Rio, however, are the centrally-located toggle switches, which are neatly integrated into the central heater unit, and control some of the secondary functions.
The sophistication of this interior concept is also reflected in the breadth of trim options which give the car a genuine premium feel, with three trim concepts available. In Kia Rio customers can select from a choice of two-tone interiors, with Cognac Brown or Desert Grey combinations and high quality interior decor. The bespoke feel of the interior underlines the new focus for Kia Rio as a mature, refined, compact premium car.
The current trend towards downsizing of vehicles which is being seen across Europe means that cars in the B-segment are becoming more mature and refined as they are required to satisfy the premium aspirations of more sophisticated customer groups. More refinement, more features, higher quality but above all more choice and distinctive design is in demand.
The radically-new Rio is Kia´s answer to these new market conditions, and numerous 'big car' comfort and convenience features will be offered to consumers on a B-segment Kia for the first time when new Rio goes on sale in Europe.
Optional features available on new Kia Rio cars for the European market will include smart-key entry system with engine start/stop button, RDS radio CD player with MP3 compatibility plus AUX, iPod and USB connections, Bluetooth® handsfree (with voice recognition available from December 2011), cruise control, climate-control air-conditioning, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. In some markets, the dashboard will come pre-wired to accept the optional portable navigation system.
The new Rio's cabin is more spacious and also feels more spacious. The base of the windscreen is moved forwards by 156 mm and up by 18 mm, while the 70 mm longer wheelbase and 25 mm wider bodyshell bring space benefits for all occupants and cargo capacity. Front legroom is increased by 45 mm, front headroom by 8 mm.
The trunk space is 100 mm wider and the capacity is now 288 litres - a 7% improvement over the previous model. The backrest of the rear seat is split 60/40 for maximum versatility. Users can fold the backrest down, to create an almost flat-floored load area.
Cabin storage includes a larger, 15-litre glove box, a larger centre console with 3-litres of extra capacity and pockets to hold a 1.5-litre bottle in the front doors and a 0.5-litre bottle in the rear doors.
Four highly efficient engines with 70-to-109 ps output In Europe, the new Kia Rio will offer customers a choice of four highly efficient three- and four-cylinder engines - with a 70-to-109 ps power range - and an industry-leading CO2 base-line rating of just 85 g/km, plus fuel consumption as low as 3.2 litres per 100 km.
In many countries, diesel power is the preferred option in this segment and Rio will be available with two versions of Kia's 'U2' power unit - both fitted with 16-valves and a WGT. The 1.4-litre generates 90 ps and 216 Nm of torque, while the 1.1-litre produces 70 ps and 162 Nm. Both engines deliver maximum torque from just 1,750 rpm.
Buyers who prefer their new Kia Rio powered by gasoline can select from a 1.4-litre Gamma or 1.25-litre Kappa engine.
A well-proven power unit in the Kia line-up, the updated 'Gamma' has friction-reducing modifications and dual CVVT (continuously variable valve timing), to achieve a responsive performance and competitively modest fuel consumption. With maximum output of 109 ps and peak torque of 136 Nm, this engine powers the fastest Rio - accelerating to 100 kph in 11.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 181 kph (112 mph).
Kia's advanced 'Kappa' family of engines - also appearing in the New Picanto at the Geneva Show - features dual CVVT, a cast aluminium block, off-set crankshaft, maintenance-free timing chain and low-friction 'beehive' valve springs. These technologies significantly improve efficiency and reduce exhaust emissions. The 1.25-litre engine in Kia Rio delivers 85 ps and 117.8 Nm of torque, while achieving fuel economy of 4.8 l/100 km.
Regular Rio models will have a CO2 rating of 94-to-124 g/km. In Europe, these figures can be further reduced by specifying Kia's optional fuel-stretching ISG technologies (automatic stop-start, advanced alternator control, upgraded starter motor and low-rolling resistance tyres) - available on all models.
Equipped with ISG, Kia Rio's emissions will range from 85-to-114 g/km, so the two diesel models (under 100 g/km) qualify for local emissions-based tax savings, where available. For these models, fuel economy will range from 3.2 to 4.8 litres per 100 km, contributing to lower running costs.
Standard transmission for both diesels and the larger gasoline engine will be a six-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.25-litre 85 ps engine has a five-speed box. A four-speed automatic gearbox will be available as an option on the 1.4-litre 109 ps gasoline engine.
If getting to work is all that matters, either body style will suffice, as all 2012 Kia Rios come with a new direct-injected, 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine that uses variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust side. The engineers were able to raise compression, too (11.0:1 versus 10:1 on the previous Rio), and the result is 138 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 123 pound-feet of torque at 4,850 rpm.
The transmissions are the same as on the mechanically similar Hyundai Accent, but with one key difference. If you pay the extra tariff for the six-speed automatic (over the standard six-speed manual), you'll be able to get an idle-stop function (called ISG for Idle Stop and Go) that shuts off the Rio's engine when you're stopped at a light.
Kia's trying to ease us into the coming era of mpg austerity, so the automaker will indeed offer ISG as an option in the U.S. even though it will only lift the Rio hatchback's EPA rating from 29 city/39 highway mpg to 30 city/39 highway (the Rio sedan gets a rounder 30/40 rating that goes to 31/41 with ISG). Either way, it's an upgrade over the 2011 Rio, which was rated 27/34 with a four-speed automatic.
Suitably Average
Our preproduction U.S.-spec Rio hatchback has both the six-speed auto and ISG. The latter is mostly nonintrusive in Seoul traffic, but it doesn't feel as slick as other start-stop applications we've tried as the engine starts back up as soon as you ease up on the brake pedal.
Eventually, we find our way out of Seoul and point the 2012 Rio five-door toward an impressive-looking Daesoon temple on South Korea's East Coast. Oftentimes, road trips aren't that relaxing in smaller compact cars, but our Rio EX hatch, which wears P185/65R15 low-rolling-resistance Kumho Solus KH25 tires (SX models get 205/45R17 tires), finds a good compromise between control and compliance. South Koreans pay hefty tolls to keep their highways in pristine condition, so there aren't many rough patches to test the suspension's mettle. No matter, we'll take care of that once we test the Rio in Southern California.
Nor can we tell you about the car's cornering ability, as the country's transportation department has built tunnels that go through the mountains (we went through 26 of them during a 270-mile trip) instead of fun roads that wind around them. Kia officials tell us the chassis engineers benchmarked the 2012 Rio's ride/handling characteristics against the Ford Fiesta and Peugeot 207. All Rios have four-wheel disc brakes, but the SX gets larger front rotors along with a slightly more aggressive state of suspension tune.
Like the Accent, the 2012 Kia Rio now uses an electric motor to power its steering, and it's a well-tuned setup. Effort levels are just right for a small car, and there's a useful dead spot on center to minimize course correction when cruising on straight highways.
Our biggest complaint about the last Rio was the lack of seat comfort and Kia has addressed this in the 2012 model. The front seats are better shaped and more supportive, and Rio EX and SX models get a telescoping steering wheel (the base LX has just a tilt wheel) that results in a more natural driving position than you'll typically get in this class.
There's actually an inch less front legroom this year, as Kia gave priority to the backseat, using the 2.8-inch wheelbase stretch to carve out 3 more inches of legroom for the rear. Still, at 5-foot-10, we're not using quite all the front-seat track travel. We also have enough room to sit in back, though the hard plastic on the front seatbacks is uncomfortable when our knees brush against it.
Otherwise, the materials in the 2012 Rio's cabin give no cause for complaint. As in the Accent, everything is a little nicer than you expect in this class. None of the controls feel flimsy and our Rio has respectable soft-touch vinyl on its dash. Interestingly, though, the dash trim is optional on the EX and standard on the SX. What's more, you only get vinyl door trim on the EX and SX; it's plastic on the LX.
From a styling point of view, it might not be a clear winner in its segment, but it certainly is pretty enough for people to notice. Designed by the talented Peter Schreyer, the Rio does seem to mimic the work he did while he was designing Seats, a subsidiary of Volkswagen.
One feature many car companies (and customers) spend time designing is the exhaust pipe. On the Rio, it is completely hidden. This gives the back a uniformed and clean appearance. But it you do prefer chrome exhaust tips, Kia will do that for you.
What we were able to test is the new “active ECO” system. This feature is engaged by pressing a button located on the left side of the dash, behind the steering wheel. Once activated, the active ECO cuts down on revs and shifts gears earlier to conserve fuel. EPA rates the Rio’s fuel economy at 30-mpg in the city and 40-mpg on the highway – 31-mpg with the ISG system. We averaged around 37 mpg on our run, which means these figures are quite honest.
On the hilly roads around Mount Rainier, the active ECO system was quite obvious. The car takes on a calmer demeanor, and since we were on a twisty mountain road, we quickly got out of the eco-mode and tried to have some fun.
This engine might produce a decent enough amount of grunt, but it does not sound happy being worked. For most, it is a non-issue, but enthusiasts will be hoping and praying for an optional engine, hopefully one with a turbo.
Despite nearly two decades of experience, I’m experiencing the same sort of embarrassment on the congested highways of Seoul, Korea, during weekday afternoon traffic. Every time we hit a rough patch and slow to a stop, each act of the throttle use begins with silence, followed by starter noise. It looks just like there’s a newbie at the wheel, only I’m in the new 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door EX equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. That’s right, an idiot-proof, non-clutch equipped auto. The source of the “stall”? Kia’s new ISG feature. Short for Idle Stop and Go, it’s an eco-friendly technology that stops the engine when idling to save gas, restarting it when the brake pedal is released. In other words, a planned pseudo-stall. Ah, the price of mpg.
The new 2012 Kia Rio boasts best-in-class fuel economy and horsepower. As of April 2011, it holds the title for best fuel efficiency in the sub-compact class. Its numbers? An impressive 29 mpg city/39 mpg highway for the 5-door hatchback (the sedan version of the Rio is rated slightly higher at 30 city/40 highway). Credit here goes to Kia implementing technologies like ISG (optional on the EX)—unheard of in an economy car—to scrape an extra city mpg, and the all-new, more-efficient engine and 6-speed automatic and manual transmissions. Being conscious of weight also helped in the mpg department. The body of the new Rio is constructed of high-tensile-strength steel (63 percent, says Kia) and the engine uses extensive aluminum for reduced weight. Kia says this third-generation Gamma engine is 29 lb. lighter than the previous powerplant.
With regard to engines, the revised 1.6-liter found in the new 2012 Kia Rio now boasts GDI, or Korean-speak for direct injection. Good for 138 bhp, the new 4-cylinder sees a 28 pony bump over the previous model year. That’s an improvement of nearly 26 percent.
While not fast, the Rio 5-Door is not completely slow, either. It’s zippy for the most part. Zippy going up hills? Yes. Zippy with a full-sized male passenger? Yes. Zippy around curves? Sort of. The front-drive Rio feels planted with its front MacPherson struts and rear torsion beam, but the skinny 185/65R-15 tires keep this Kia from being a canyon carver. It’s more of a canyon whittler… Although the SX Rio has 17-in. wheels, wider tires and sportier suspension (LX is the base trim), it’s not really a canyon carver either; that’s not what it was built for.
So what is the Rio’s purpose? If it was to look better than the mundane previous model, it’s mission accomplished. With its faster rake, steep shoulder lines and frowning front end, the new Rio 5-Door is light ages ahead. It looks pretty good. The added width, along with the car being lower and having shorter overhangs, helps. The interior is equally improved, featuring a tilting steering column, steering wheel mounted audio controls, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, standard. The EX trim adds power windows, cruise control, Bluetooth and a telescoping steering wheel.
The EX trim gets standard power windows with automatic up/down on the driver’s window, Bluetooth wireless technology connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls, 60/40 split folding rear seats and leatherette door trim and power door locks with keyless entry.
While the range topping SX trim adds 17-inch wheels with 205/45R17 tires, fog lamps, LED daytime running and rear combinations lamps, dual chrome tip exhaust, outside heated mirrors with turn signal indicators, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, maplight with sunglasses holder, illuminated vanity mirrors, trip computer, cruise control, UVO powered by Microsoft in-car hands-free communication and entertainment system with rear camera display, and chrome-coated accents throughout.
The Rio5 is Kia’s brand-new Rio small sedan was joined by the hatchback version of the sub compact model. The 2012 Kia Rio5 Hatchback is available with a 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic. The direct-injection four-pot delivers 138 horsepower, and thanks to the addition of Kia’s ISG start-stop technology, it returns 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
The car will be available three trim levels, LX, EX and SX. The base LX includes 15-inch steel wheels with 185/65R15 tires, driver’s seat height adjuster, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), which coordinates the car’s ESC and ABS.
The only visible styling changes over the European model, concern the colored turn signals up front and the market-specific trim options inside.
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The fourth-generation Kia Rio, revealed at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, boasts a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the latest model into line 2012 kia rio
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The Rio small sedan and hatch's new to the Rio platform has a longer wheelbase -- 101.2 inches as opposed to the outgoing car's 98.4 -- and the hatch is wider by 1 inch, longer by 1.2 inches, and sits 0.6-inch lower. The Rio 5-door (the name also changed for 2012) may be longer than the 2011 Rio5, but its overall length is 12.6 inches shorter than the 2012 Rio sedan. The increased 5-door size means more headroom and legroom in front.
The fourth-generation Kia Rio, revealed at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, boasts a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the latest model into line with the rest of Kia's striking design-led product range.
In addition to appealing to consumers' aesthetic tastes, the new Kia Rio will spearhead the company's efforts to significantly grow its market share across the globe by offering potential owners industry-leading environmental credentials.
Target CO2 emissions for the model range start at just 85 g/km - representing a new industry-wide low. This impressive figure places the B-segment Kia Rio ahead of all other models in its class and even all vehicles currently on sale in the entire European market.
Tasked with the difficult job of improving upon the remarkable international sales success of the previous generation model, Kia's engineers and designers have created a new Rio which combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that also communicates Latin flair, for a truly global appeal.
"The Kia Rio has always been successful, and with this new incarnation we have a car which is extremely attractive with a fresh feeling of sportiness - a car that people will want to buy for its looks, as well as its environmental credentials" comments Benny Oeyen, Vice President Marketing and Product Planning, Kia Motors Europe.
Since its launch in 2005, global sales of the third-generation Kia Rio have totalled more than 860,000 units. It was the company's third best-selling vehicle in overseas markets during 2010 with sales of more than 219,000 units.
The new Kia Rio model is longer (by 20 mm), wider (by 25 mm), and lower (by -15 mm) and features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm) - greatly enhancing passenger space and cargo capacity. With an overall height of 1,455 mm, new Kia Rio is one of the lowest cars in Kia's European product range.
Manufactured for the first time with a choice of 5-door and 3-door bodystyles (in Europe), new Kia Rio is set to completely redefine its position as one of the most competitive vehicles in one of the most competitive sectors - the B-segment.
Kia's market research predicts that global demand for B-segment cars is going to grow significantly over the next two years.
With two bodystyles for sporty new Kia Rio - plus the already popular Soul and Venga models appealing to people who want to stand out from the crowd or need a spacious and versatile compact MPV - Kia is confident of capturing a larger share of this growing market segment.
To lower fuel consumption and help achieve Kia Rio's class-leading emissions, Kia engineers have carried out an extensive programme to shed weight across a broad range of components. As a result, although new Kia Rio is a significantly larger car than the third-generation model with extra equipment, its weight-gain has been kept to a minimum.
The 5-door version of new Kia Rio will go on sale in Europe during the third quarter of 2011 with the all-new 3-door model joining Kia's B-segment line-up in the first quarter of 2012. Both versions will be manufactured exclusively at Kia's Sohari plant in Korea.
'Premium presence' for compact new car
With new Rio, Kia has created a car that answers consumer demand for more quality, more choice, and attractive, exciting design.
This new car is no evolution of its predecessor, it is a revolution. The bold and distinctive personality of the new Kia Rio represents a complete departure from its predecessor and fits perfectly into the revitalized new family of Kia products.
Viewed head on, new Kia Rio has its own unique interpretation of the Kia corporate grille which is integrated beautifully with the front lamps to create a new twist on the Kia family look. In this latest form, the Kia logo now sits above the grille. Below the grille, the treatment of front bumper and spoiler again shows signs of the Kia design DNA, with its distinctive on-road presence. In profile, the ratio of body to glass, combined with the car's strong wedge form, give Kia Rio a dynamic, sporty stance. So Rio has now been given a completely fresh personality which perfectly complements its siblings Picanto and Venga.
Kia Rio shows its connection with the Sportage, too, through its strong and stable rear, flowing C-pillar, dominant high shoulder and fast rear screen angle. The coupe-like roof-line contrasts dramatically with the strong and static rear bumper and gives a power and solidity to the rear view.
This bold but elegant appearance is strengthened by the distinctive feature line which adds tension to the flanks and accentuates the dynamic stance of the car. The careful balance of window graphic, wheelbase and overall proportion give Kia Rio a refinement and premium presence which is rare in the B-segment.
To maximise the impact of Kia Rio´s striking appearance is a fresh new palette of 10 body colours. Kia's colour and trim team have developed a spectrum of exclusive colours for Rio which underline its refined and stylish character. These include a Wendy Brown and a Graphite Grey, both colours with a classic premium flavour.
With the introduction of the new Rio, the Kia product portfolio has just taken the next important step towards becoming a family of vehicles which has an attractive and coherent brand style but still manages to retain individual product character.
To complement the striking exterior, Kia Rio's interior design has also been transformed, with a clean sophisticated theme. The concept follows the corporate Kia interior philosophy with the characteristic horizontal instrument panel, accentuating the feeling of width and space. It is a theme which cleverly combines chic modernity with rationality and achieves a calm timeless quality.
The quality and refinement of interior materials and the attention to detail in fit and finish have been design priorities for new Kia Rio.
As in other recently-launched Kia models, the signature interior architecture - with its 'three cylinder' instrument cluster, precise instrument graphics and clear functionality - have been retained. New for Rio, however, are the centrally-located toggle switches, which are neatly integrated into the central heater unit, and control some of the secondary functions.
The sophistication of this interior concept is also reflected in the breadth of trim options which give the car a genuine premium feel, with three trim concepts available. In Kia Rio customers can select from a choice of two-tone interiors, with Cognac Brown or Desert Grey combinations and high quality interior decor. The bespoke feel of the interior underlines the new focus for Kia Rio as a mature, refined, compact premium car.
The current trend towards downsizing of vehicles which is being seen across Europe means that cars in the B-segment are becoming more mature and refined as they are required to satisfy the premium aspirations of more sophisticated customer groups. More refinement, more features, higher quality but above all more choice and distinctive design is in demand.
The radically-new Rio is Kia´s answer to these new market conditions, and numerous 'big car' comfort and convenience features will be offered to consumers on a B-segment Kia for the first time when new Rio goes on sale in Europe.
Optional features available on new Kia Rio cars for the European market will include smart-key entry system with engine start/stop button, RDS radio CD player with MP3 compatibility plus AUX, iPod and USB connections, Bluetooth® handsfree (with voice recognition available from December 2011), cruise control, climate-control air-conditioning, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. In some markets, the dashboard will come pre-wired to accept the optional portable navigation system.
The new Rio's cabin is more spacious and also feels more spacious. The base of the windscreen is moved forwards by 156 mm and up by 18 mm, while the 70 mm longer wheelbase and 25 mm wider bodyshell bring space benefits for all occupants and cargo capacity. Front legroom is increased by 45 mm, front headroom by 8 mm.
The trunk space is 100 mm wider and the capacity is now 288 litres - a 7% improvement over the previous model. The backrest of the rear seat is split 60/40 for maximum versatility. Users can fold the backrest down, to create an almost flat-floored load area.
Cabin storage includes a larger, 15-litre glove box, a larger centre console with 3-litres of extra capacity and pockets to hold a 1.5-litre bottle in the front doors and a 0.5-litre bottle in the rear doors.
Four highly efficient engines with 70-to-109 ps output In Europe, the new Kia Rio will offer customers a choice of four highly efficient three- and four-cylinder engines - with a 70-to-109 ps power range - and an industry-leading CO2 base-line rating of just 85 g/km, plus fuel consumption as low as 3.2 litres per 100 km.
In many countries, diesel power is the preferred option in this segment and Rio will be available with two versions of Kia's 'U2' power unit - both fitted with 16-valves and a WGT. The 1.4-litre generates 90 ps and 216 Nm of torque, while the 1.1-litre produces 70 ps and 162 Nm. Both engines deliver maximum torque from just 1,750 rpm.
Buyers who prefer their new Kia Rio powered by gasoline can select from a 1.4-litre Gamma or 1.25-litre Kappa engine.
A well-proven power unit in the Kia line-up, the updated 'Gamma' has friction-reducing modifications and dual CVVT (continuously variable valve timing), to achieve a responsive performance and competitively modest fuel consumption. With maximum output of 109 ps and peak torque of 136 Nm, this engine powers the fastest Rio - accelerating to 100 kph in 11.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 181 kph (112 mph).
Kia's advanced 'Kappa' family of engines - also appearing in the New Picanto at the Geneva Show - features dual CVVT, a cast aluminium block, off-set crankshaft, maintenance-free timing chain and low-friction 'beehive' valve springs. These technologies significantly improve efficiency and reduce exhaust emissions. The 1.25-litre engine in Kia Rio delivers 85 ps and 117.8 Nm of torque, while achieving fuel economy of 4.8 l/100 km.
Regular Rio models will have a CO2 rating of 94-to-124 g/km. In Europe, these figures can be further reduced by specifying Kia's optional fuel-stretching ISG technologies (automatic stop-start, advanced alternator control, upgraded starter motor and low-rolling resistance tyres) - available on all models.
Equipped with ISG, Kia Rio's emissions will range from 85-to-114 g/km, so the two diesel models (under 100 g/km) qualify for local emissions-based tax savings, where available. For these models, fuel economy will range from 3.2 to 4.8 litres per 100 km, contributing to lower running costs.
Standard transmission for both diesels and the larger gasoline engine will be a six-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.25-litre 85 ps engine has a five-speed box. A four-speed automatic gearbox will be available as an option on the 1.4-litre 109 ps gasoline engine.
If getting to work is all that matters, either body style will suffice, as all 2012 Kia Rios come with a new direct-injected, 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine that uses variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust side. The engineers were able to raise compression, too (11.0:1 versus 10:1 on the previous Rio), and the result is 138 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 123 pound-feet of torque at 4,850 rpm.
The transmissions are the same as on the mechanically similar Hyundai Accent, but with one key difference. If you pay the extra tariff for the six-speed automatic (over the standard six-speed manual), you'll be able to get an idle-stop function (called ISG for Idle Stop and Go) that shuts off the Rio's engine when you're stopped at a light.
Kia's trying to ease us into the coming era of mpg austerity, so the automaker will indeed offer ISG as an option in the U.S. even though it will only lift the Rio hatchback's EPA rating from 29 city/39 highway mpg to 30 city/39 highway (the Rio sedan gets a rounder 30/40 rating that goes to 31/41 with ISG). Either way, it's an upgrade over the 2011 Rio, which was rated 27/34 with a four-speed automatic.
Suitably Average
Our preproduction U.S.-spec Rio hatchback has both the six-speed auto and ISG. The latter is mostly nonintrusive in Seoul traffic, but it doesn't feel as slick as other start-stop applications we've tried as the engine starts back up as soon as you ease up on the brake pedal.
Eventually, we find our way out of Seoul and point the 2012 Rio five-door toward an impressive-looking Daesoon temple on South Korea's East Coast. Oftentimes, road trips aren't that relaxing in smaller compact cars, but our Rio EX hatch, which wears P185/65R15 low-rolling-resistance Kumho Solus KH25 tires (SX models get 205/45R17 tires), finds a good compromise between control and compliance. South Koreans pay hefty tolls to keep their highways in pristine condition, so there aren't many rough patches to test the suspension's mettle. No matter, we'll take care of that once we test the Rio in Southern California.
Nor can we tell you about the car's cornering ability, as the country's transportation department has built tunnels that go through the mountains (we went through 26 of them during a 270-mile trip) instead of fun roads that wind around them. Kia officials tell us the chassis engineers benchmarked the 2012 Rio's ride/handling characteristics against the Ford Fiesta and Peugeot 207. All Rios have four-wheel disc brakes, but the SX gets larger front rotors along with a slightly more aggressive state of suspension tune.
Like the Accent, the 2012 Kia Rio now uses an electric motor to power its steering, and it's a well-tuned setup. Effort levels are just right for a small car, and there's a useful dead spot on center to minimize course correction when cruising on straight highways.
Our biggest complaint about the last Rio was the lack of seat comfort and Kia has addressed this in the 2012 model. The front seats are better shaped and more supportive, and Rio EX and SX models get a telescoping steering wheel (the base LX has just a tilt wheel) that results in a more natural driving position than you'll typically get in this class.
There's actually an inch less front legroom this year, as Kia gave priority to the backseat, using the 2.8-inch wheelbase stretch to carve out 3 more inches of legroom for the rear. Still, at 5-foot-10, we're not using quite all the front-seat track travel. We also have enough room to sit in back, though the hard plastic on the front seatbacks is uncomfortable when our knees brush against it.
Otherwise, the materials in the 2012 Rio's cabin give no cause for complaint. As in the Accent, everything is a little nicer than you expect in this class. None of the controls feel flimsy and our Rio has respectable soft-touch vinyl on its dash. Interestingly, though, the dash trim is optional on the EX and standard on the SX. What's more, you only get vinyl door trim on the EX and SX; it's plastic on the LX.
From a styling point of view, it might not be a clear winner in its segment, but it certainly is pretty enough for people to notice. Designed by the talented Peter Schreyer, the Rio does seem to mimic the work he did while he was designing Seats, a subsidiary of Volkswagen.
One feature many car companies (and customers) spend time designing is the exhaust pipe. On the Rio, it is completely hidden. This gives the back a uniformed and clean appearance. But it you do prefer chrome exhaust tips, Kia will do that for you.
What we were able to test is the new “active ECO” system. This feature is engaged by pressing a button located on the left side of the dash, behind the steering wheel. Once activated, the active ECO cuts down on revs and shifts gears earlier to conserve fuel. EPA rates the Rio’s fuel economy at 30-mpg in the city and 40-mpg on the highway – 31-mpg with the ISG system. We averaged around 37 mpg on our run, which means these figures are quite honest.
On the hilly roads around Mount Rainier, the active ECO system was quite obvious. The car takes on a calmer demeanor, and since we were on a twisty mountain road, we quickly got out of the eco-mode and tried to have some fun.
This engine might produce a decent enough amount of grunt, but it does not sound happy being worked. For most, it is a non-issue, but enthusiasts will be hoping and praying for an optional engine, hopefully one with a turbo.
Despite nearly two decades of experience, I’m experiencing the same sort of embarrassment on the congested highways of Seoul, Korea, during weekday afternoon traffic. Every time we hit a rough patch and slow to a stop, each act of the throttle use begins with silence, followed by starter noise. It looks just like there’s a newbie at the wheel, only I’m in the new 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door EX equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. That’s right, an idiot-proof, non-clutch equipped auto. The source of the “stall”? Kia’s new ISG feature. Short for Idle Stop and Go, it’s an eco-friendly technology that stops the engine when idling to save gas, restarting it when the brake pedal is released. In other words, a planned pseudo-stall. Ah, the price of mpg.
The new 2012 Kia Rio boasts best-in-class fuel economy and horsepower. As of April 2011, it holds the title for best fuel efficiency in the sub-compact class. Its numbers? An impressive 29 mpg city/39 mpg highway for the 5-door hatchback (the sedan version of the Rio is rated slightly higher at 30 city/40 highway). Credit here goes to Kia implementing technologies like ISG (optional on the EX)—unheard of in an economy car—to scrape an extra city mpg, and the all-new, more-efficient engine and 6-speed automatic and manual transmissions. Being conscious of weight also helped in the mpg department. The body of the new Rio is constructed of high-tensile-strength steel (63 percent, says Kia) and the engine uses extensive aluminum for reduced weight. Kia says this third-generation Gamma engine is 29 lb. lighter than the previous powerplant.
With regard to engines, the revised 1.6-liter found in the new 2012 Kia Rio now boasts GDI, or Korean-speak for direct injection. Good for 138 bhp, the new 4-cylinder sees a 28 pony bump over the previous model year. That’s an improvement of nearly 26 percent.
While not fast, the Rio 5-Door is not completely slow, either. It’s zippy for the most part. Zippy going up hills? Yes. Zippy with a full-sized male passenger? Yes. Zippy around curves? Sort of. The front-drive Rio feels planted with its front MacPherson struts and rear torsion beam, but the skinny 185/65R-15 tires keep this Kia from being a canyon carver. It’s more of a canyon whittler… Although the SX Rio has 17-in. wheels, wider tires and sportier suspension (LX is the base trim), it’s not really a canyon carver either; that’s not what it was built for.
So what is the Rio’s purpose? If it was to look better than the mundane previous model, it’s mission accomplished. With its faster rake, steep shoulder lines and frowning front end, the new Rio 5-Door is light ages ahead. It looks pretty good. The added width, along with the car being lower and having shorter overhangs, helps. The interior is equally improved, featuring a tilting steering column, steering wheel mounted audio controls, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, standard. The EX trim adds power windows, cruise control, Bluetooth and a telescoping steering wheel.
The EX trim gets standard power windows with automatic up/down on the driver’s window, Bluetooth wireless technology connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls, 60/40 split folding rear seats and leatherette door trim and power door locks with keyless entry.
While the range topping SX trim adds 17-inch wheels with 205/45R17 tires, fog lamps, LED daytime running and rear combinations lamps, dual chrome tip exhaust, outside heated mirrors with turn signal indicators, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, maplight with sunglasses holder, illuminated vanity mirrors, trip computer, cruise control, UVO powered by Microsoft in-car hands-free communication and entertainment system with rear camera display, and chrome-coated accents throughout.
The Rio5 is Kia’s brand-new Rio small sedan was joined by the hatchback version of the sub compact model. The 2012 Kia Rio5 Hatchback is available with a 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic. The direct-injection four-pot delivers 138 horsepower, and thanks to the addition of Kia’s ISG start-stop technology, it returns 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
The car will be available three trim levels, LX, EX and SX. The base LX includes 15-inch steel wheels with 185/65R15 tires, driver’s seat height adjuster, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), which coordinates the car’s ESC and ABS.
The only visible styling changes over the European model, concern the colored turn signals up front and the market-specific trim options inside.
2012 kia rio
