Naza Kia Malaysia has finally decided to introduce the booted variant of their popular B-segment model, the Kia Rio. The third generation Kia Rio was originally launched in Malaysia in early 2013, but it was only available in a 5-door hatchback body style. The Rio hatchback has recently been given a styling refresh, and now the facelifted Rio hatch is joined by the introduction of the Rio Sedan.
Previewed during the NST-MAI ASEAN Auto Show at The Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre, the Kia Rio Sedan comes in a single variant like the hatchback sibling with the same powertrain, but specification-wise it’s positioned below the hatch. It also carries a marginally cheaper price tag compared to the hatchback, by around RM6k less.
QUICK FACTS
| Name | Kia Rio Sedan |
| Engine | 1,396cc; inline-4 DOHC |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Max Power | 108 hp @ 6,300 rpm |
| Max Torque | 137 Nm @ 4,200 rpm |
| Price (OTR with insurace) | RM73,000.00 (estimated) |
EXTERIOR
It’s not merely a Rio with a tacked-on tail. Upon closer inspection the Rio Sedan has a larger ‘Tiger Nose’ grille along with a totally different front bumper. Even the headlights are not the same as on the hatch and although it misses out on the LED for its DRLs, it still retains the front foglamps.
The side indicators have moved from the side mirrors to the front fenders, while the mirrors have to be folded manually on the sedan. The wheels are two inches smaller than the 17-inch alloys fitted on the hatch, and they’re wrapped with a more eco-oriented set of Hankook Kinergy Eco tyres measuring 185/55 R15.
While the width (1,720 mm), height (1,455 mm), and wheelbase (2,570 mm) matches to the figures from the hatch, the total length has grown from 4,050 mm to 4,370 mm. The extra rear overhang contributes to the extension, where it offers at least 389 litres of cargo space under the bootlid complete with a full-size spare tyre that resides under the boot floor.
INTERIOR
On the inside it’s the same affair as the Rio hatchback, but the equipment is not as generous. The instrument cluster is the basic type with a small trip computer screen at the base of the speedometer, and the steering wheel is not wrapped in leather. However, the controls for the radio and Bluetooth audio system are still on the left and right spokes. Speaking of audio system, the head unit supports the mentioned Bluetooth connectivity, and it offers 800 MB of memory for you to keep your favourite tunes on board.
There are Aux and USB ports flanked by a pair of 12V power outlets below the manual HVAC controls, and there are the usual storage space underneath the center armrest. Space remains the same inside, the only difference is the extra boot space behind the 60/40 split folding rear seat back rests.
PERFORMANCE
Unsurprisingly, the Rio Sedan shares the same powertrain combo as in the hatch. A 1,396cc four-cylinder mill is mated to a four-speed automatic, sending 108 hp and 137 Nm of torque to the front wheels. Compared to the Honda City and Toyota Vios, the power output is on par with the Japanese offerings.
SAFETY
On the safety front, the Rio Sedan is fully kitted with six airbags as standard. That certainly put some cars in the bigger segments to shame. ISOFIX anchor points can also be found in the rear seats. Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and all-round disc brakes with ABS ensure a safe drive, while Hill-start Assist Control and reverse sensors lend a hand in the day-to-day driving.
WHAT ELSE?
Available in Clear White, Bright Silver, Deep Blue, and Signal Red, the Rio Sedan is now open for bookings with an estimated price of RM73,000.00 inclusive of GST and insurance. Deliveries will commence in January 2016, and the Rio Sedan is covered by a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage.
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