The 2020 Kio Rio has the power to surprise

South Korean automaker, Kia, introduced the Rio hatchback for South African markets in 2017 and it soon won the hearts of motorists here due to its competent features. Competing against the likes of Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo, the 2020 Kia Rio does not boast a turbo engine but it does have some nifty technologies and onboard features that make it a strong contender in this tightly contested segment. Let’s discuss Rio’s power to surprise:  

The 2020 Kia Rio is accessible in four trim levels: LS, LX, EX, and TEC, with two engine choices i.e. a 1.2L MPI and 1.4L MPI delivering 62 kW/120 Nm and 74 kW/135 Nm, respectively. The entry-level LS comes with a 1.2L engine mated to 5-speed manual transmission. All other variants are powered by a 1.4L engine that can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The all-new Kia Rio is bigger and bolder than its previous model and is not just a city car, but a city-to-city car. On the front, it has bi-projection headlamps and restyled radiator grille. The rear is adorned with a rear spoiler garnish. The sunroof is optional on the TEC variant only. The standard wheels are 15-inch steel, however, you can also opt for 15-inch or 17-inch alloys. The new Rio is available in eight distinct colours.  

Inside, it features a telescopic and title steering with audio controls, an auto defog system, an ECM rear-view mirror, a rain sensor, a sunvisor illumination lamp, adjustable seatbelt anchors, a centre console armrest, and front and rear door bottle holders. You can either fully fold the rear seats or go for 60:40 split.

Apart from the Bluetooth technology that gives you hands-free access to your smartphone, it comes with 7” colour touchscreen with Apple Car Play and Android Auto along with MP3 compatibility. The rearview camera allows you to see the incidences behind you.

Kia’s obsession with safety gives Rio several intelligent active-safety technologies and substantial passive-safety improvements. The 51% Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS) and hot-stamping of components in eight core stress areas make the new Rio a highly safe car. Apart from the ABS, it also comes with rear parking distance control (available on EX and TEC) as well as 6 airbags (only accessible on TEC).

The entry-level 2020 Kia Rio starts at R261,995 and goes as high as R347,995 for the range-topping model. If you really want to enjoy the ride of the new Rio, we suggest you go for the TEC model. It has all the bells and whistles that would make your journeys comfortable, convenient, and fun. The leasing option starts at R3,099 per month. The best things about buying the 2020 Kia Rio are the Unlimited Kilometre / 5 Years Warranty and 5 Years / Unlimited Roadside Assistance.

While competing with the big boys like Fiesta and Polo, the all-new Kia Rio lags in performance, however, it does come with a complete package offering full bang for your buck. It is stylish, it is safe, and it has enough power to take you from point A to point B quickly.

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