New Kia Rio revealed ahead of Geneva

Ahead of next month’s world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, Kia has released the first images of the next generation Rio.

Kia describe the new generation of the Rio as having “a bold and distinctive personality”, which is said to follow the design current model lineup of Korean brand.

When launched the new Rio generation will be available in a 5-door and a 3-door version. The two body variants will try to continue the international success of the current Rio.

At the front the new Rio has received a new interpretation of Kia's signature grille. For this new generation of the Rio it has been integrated with the headlamps to give a touch different from the other Kia family models. In profile the new Rio received a enhanced dynamic thanks to the body to glass ratio and its strong wedge form.

With a wheelbase extended by 70 mm, comparing to the previous generation, the new Rio has been handed greater passenger space and comfort, while also increasing capacity to 292 litres on the hatchback variant. As for the exterior dimensions, the Rio 55 mm longer, 15 mm lower and 25 mm wider.

In terms of powertrains the new Kia B-segment model will be featuring an extensive range of fuel-efficient and low-CO2 petrol and diesel engines, which will include a 1.1-litre diesel unit that has a power output of 70 PS and produces 85 g/km of CO2. There will also be an all-new, high-performance 1.2-litre Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection that will be arriving in 2012.

Soon-Nam Lee, Director of Overseas Marketing, Kia Motors Corporation, commented: "This new model is a big step forward.  The Rio has always been successful, and with this new incarnation we have a car that people will want to buy for its looks."

Worldwide the first generation of the Kia Rio has sold more than 860,000 units since its launch in 2005. In 2010 it was the brand’s third best-selling vehicle in overseas markets, selling more than 219,000 units.

The new Rio will have its world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show alongside the next generation Picanto city car.