[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/43961863371/[/flickr]

The Kia Rio with the Safety Pack has scored a 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP test

Safety and After Sales Service – It remains to be seen what safety features will be offered in the India-spec Rio. However, considering it is likely to be priced at a premium over the Elite i20, expect it to be on par with its Korean cousin. The automaker is expected to start selling its cars from late 2019 or early 2020.

[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/43056630895/[/flickr]

The hatchback is most likely to be a promising alternative to the other premium hatchbacks in the segment currently

Verdict – The Kia Rio is a very promising car and when launched in India, with the 1.2-litre powertrain, it will also get a double shot of practicality via the 1.4-litre diesel engine. It all boils down to how will the Korean carmaker price the hatchback. If it could undercut or even come at a slight premium over the segment leader, the Maruti Baleno, things could get interesting in the premium hatchback space.

[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/43961864011/[/flickr]

The Kia Rio shares most of its parts with the Elite i20

What’s Cool

– Sporty design
– Feature loaded interiors
– 5-star Euro NCAP rating
– Good high speed stability

What’s Not So Cool

– The engine isn’t rev happy
– Ride is a bit choppy

[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/43056630335/[/flickr]

The Kia Rio flanks the trademark Tiger nose grille at the front

Kia Rio Specifications

* Engine: 1197cc, 4-cylinder, Petrol
* Power: 83 PS @ 6000 RPM
* Torque: 115 Nm @ 4000 RPM
* Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission
* 0-100 km/hr: NA
* Top Speed: NA
* Suspension: MacPherson struts (Front), Coupled Torsion Beam (Rear)
* Tyre Size: 205/45/17 (Front & Rear)
* Brakes: Discs (Front), Drum (Rear), ABS
* Safety: Dual Airbags, ABS, Traction Control and Lane Departure Warning

Kia Rio Dimensions

* Overall length x width x height: 4065 mm X 1725 mm X 1450 mm
* Boot Space: 300-litres
* Ground clearance: 140 mm
* Wheelbase: 2580 mm
* Kerb weight: 1155 kgs

[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/42153231290/[/flickr]

Hoping to see the Kia Rio on Indian roads real soon

[wp-review id=”220117″]