First proper pics of new Kia Rio

First photos of new Kia Rio show sharp design and high-class cabin.

What's the news?

We've seen the sketches, now here's the real thing - the all new Kia Rio that will make its debut at the Paris Motor Show later this month.

Based on the same platform as the Hyundai i20, and sharing its engines, the Rio is 15mm longer than the current model, with a 10mm stretch in the wheelbase, which should lead to an improvement in rear legroom. Overall it's 5mm lower and 5mm wider too.

Outside, there are LED tail lights while inside there's a classy new interior, with the dashboard angled towards the driver and a 'floating' touchscreen for the infotainment system, which, Volvo-style, has allowed Kia to dramatically cut back on the number of physical buttons and switches.

As a sign that Kia is moving further and further away from its bargain roots, there will be a special 'Red Pack' option that gives buyers the choice of red (man-made) leather upholstery as well as the usual black and grey options.

Production of the new Rio kicks off at the end of this year so we should see it on sale here by the end of quarter one in 2017 wearing the '171' registration plate.

Published on: September 1, 2016