Kia Rio facelift officially launched, sole SX variant offered for RM79k



Also making its first public appearance alongside the second generation Kia Cerato Koup is the new Rio facelift – the rather handsome Korean B-Segment hatchback. Only one trim level, the Rio SX, will be offered from this point onwards, after Naza Kia decided to drop the RM76k EX trim.

Before we move on to what’s new, let’s get one thing clear – the RM79,080 price tag remains unchanged from before. Prior to the implementation of GST, the Rio SX was priced at RM79,888 (RM808 cheaper after GST).OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

QUICK FACTS

Name Kia Rio 1.4L SX
Engine 1,396cc; MPI, DOHC, CVVT
Transmission 4-speed auto
Max Power 108 hp @ 6,300 rpm
Max Torque 137 Nm @ 4,200 rpm
Price (OTR with insurance) RM79,080 (with GST)

EXTERIOR

The changes here are fairly noticeable, but the same cannot be said for the interior. It doesn’t take a trained eye to spot the new front and rear bumpers of the Rio, what more the 17-inch wheels. The front bumper gets a sportier look with two horizontal slats on each side of the projector (halogen) fog lamps, and the use of horizontal bars extend further into the lower grille.

Kia ditched the previous 17-inch polished five-spoke alloy wheel design for a new set that looks miles better. They are wrapped with 205/45 R17 series rubbers, including the full-sized spare wheel. Yes, you get a five-piece here. Towards the back, you’ll notice a chunkier rear bumper with a pair of L-shaped fog lamps built into it. It retains the same LED combination rear lamps.

INTERIOR

Inside, the Rio gets a mild refresh, with the most noticeable difference being the new single-DIN head unit that supports Radio, CD, MP3, auxiliary and Bluetooth connectivity. Otherwise, the rest remain largely identical as before. The powered sunroof continues to be standard in this SX trim, as are the single-zone auto air conditioning with cluster ioniser and black fabric seats.OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Other key features here include keyless entry with push-start button, electric power foldable side mirrors, six speakers, and leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel, of which is motor driven (MDPS), tilt and telescopic.

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet resides the same 1.4-litre Gamma MPI engine as before, putting out 108 hp at 6,300 rpm and 137 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm. Also unchanged is the four-speed automatic gearbox that drives the front wheels.OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

SAFETY

This B-Segment hatch aces in this regard, boasting a generous six-airbag count, Isofix child mount, impact sensing door unlock system, ABS, ESC, Hill-start Assist Control and Vehicle Stability Management. The Rio also scored a 5-star crash safety rating from Euro NCAP.

WHAT ELSE?

There are four colours to choose from: Bright Silver, Signal Red, Deep Blue and Clear White. As with all new Kias, the Rio SX comes with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty package.


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