Kia has released the first look at the all-new fourth-generation Rio prior to its debut next month at the 2016 Paris Auto Show. The initial take on this more sophisticated iteration of the automaker’s front-drive subcompact is quite promising. The official renderings of the Rio 5-door hatch (a sedan is still expected to be part of the mix) show a vehicle that clearly steps up its styling game. With a new look spearheaded by Kia’s design centers in Germany and California working in close collaboration with the firm’s main design center in Namyang, Korea, the recast Rio boasts an athletically elegant appearance defined by cleaner more confident character lines complemented by an extended front clip, bolder C-pillar treatment and a longer wheelbase. The new dimensions should help with both vehicle dynamics and passenger compartment packaging.
Speaking of the cabin, Kia said the new Rio will offer major upgrades there as well, highlighted by a cleaner, more modern dash and console layout. Class-leading practicality will be matched with the latest in-car connectivity and the automaker also promises an impressive array of safety technology. European production of the new Kia Rio is set to start “towards the end of 2016,” with timing for other global markets to be confirmed at a later date. That means the next-gen Kia Rio should be going on sale here sometime in 2017 as a 2018 model. The good news is the new Rio is expected to spawn a performance-oriented GT variant.
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