The sunny location of Sintra, Portugal played host to the launch of KIA’s all-new RIO, which is due to land on Irish Shores this coming October. It’s an important car for the Korean manufacturer and one that promises improved quality and driving dynamics over its predecessor. The all-new Rio has been engineered in Germany and manufactured in Korea. Whilst there were four variants available for testing, Irish motorists will have two choices available to them, one petrol derived and one diesel powered. Both models will be in tax band A with an annual road tax of €104. I test drove the 1.4l diesel, the 90hp it delivers is ample for city driving and the new platform which the RIO is built on provides a more spacious and comfortable interior than its predecessor.
Initially only available as a five-door, both models will be available in two trim specifications, EX and LX. Prices for both have yet to be confirmed but I expect the 1.2l 85hp petrol model to start around €15,000 while the 1.4l Diesel will be priced from approximately €17,000. Both models will come equipped with Electronic Stability Control, Brake Assist and Hill Ascent Control as standard. Also standard will be KIA’s renowned seven year warranty.
