2015 Kia Rio freshens up for France

[Haltech]

Filed under: Budget, Europe, Hatchback, Kia



We've always felt that the current-generation Rio is styled with European flair, so good on Kia for showing its refreshed new look here at the Paris Motor Show.

The B-segment hatchback's aggressive looks get modestly more so for the new model year, with a revamped tiger nose grille and new light fixtures, along with a pair of hash marks in the fog lamp area. To us, the current car, introduced for 2012, still looks quite fresh, but we like the subtly new light fixtures and suite of new wheel designs.

Interior highlights include a rationalized center stack with updated audio and navigation systems, revised cloth on EX models and additional brightwork around the air vents.

Mechanically, the European-spec Rio will offer a range of four engines ranging from 74 to 108 horsepower and benefit from an available stop/start system to maximize fuel economy. We're not sure if the latter technology will be available in our market, but we fully expect the North American model to continue with its 1.6-liter Gamma four, which in the 2014 model generates 138 hp and 123 lb-ft and is paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.

The updated Sohari, Korea-built Rio goes on sale in Europe early next year as a 2015 model. For our part, we've reached out to Kia Motors America to find out if and when North American customers can expect to see these exterior and cabin upgrades, and will update this story when we hear more. In the meantime, check out our high-res gallery above and the official press release below.

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2015 Kia Rio freshens up for France originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Oct 2014 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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