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Did you know that despite a stressed economy, there are two car categories in our local car landscape that are either holding their ground or increasing their sales volumes? These two “hero” categories are both small and compact, with the one being a city hatch and the other, a crossover.

Here is Kia’s option, the former of the two – the all-new Rio.

From its humble beginnings as a sports wagon, at its introduction, to the must-have fashion statement in its 3rd incarnation. Now, it's grown up and matured into a sophisticated urban hatch with stylish looks.

The new, 4th generation KIA Rio has arrived and it is a Jack of many traits, but is it a master of some?

Matured like a fine wine, the new Rio is more sophisticated - for a broader appeal. No longer aimed at first car buyers or the fashionable youth - the new Rio is a compact city hatch for the upwardly mobile; aimed at those who enjoy technology and appreciate compact proportions. Despite is maturity, it remains good-looking. Now more angular and squared off, it has been accoladed with an iF Product Design Award and a Red Dot Design Award - the seal of the ‘best of the best’! Perhaps that has something to do with the new incarnation of its grille, which KIA anecdotally refers to as its “tiger’s nose”. If you stare at it long enough, you can reconcile the resemblance to a cat’s nose.

At the launch, we got to drive the flagship model, the 1.4 TEC. This model features added comfort and conveniences over the more basic EX models. These include the addition of machine-finished 17-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, as well as Cruise Control, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, alloy pedals and leather upholstery. Additionally, there are new in-car technologies and connectivity features, including Android and Apple smartphone integration.A highlight of the new Rio is its interior - it is both modern and sculpted. Both the interior and exterior of the car has been designed by Kia’s design teams in Germany and California, giving the Rio a Eurocentric edge. But it isn’t only about design – the new Rio has a class-leading cabin and a spacious 325-litres luggage capacity. There is greater attention-placed detail. An example is the new slimmer C-pillar for better rear visibility. 

I began the article by making mention that the new Rio is a Jack of many traits; asking the question, is it a master of any? There is no denying that the Rio is well-rounded, but there is a banquette of other well-rounded options at this level in the market. So, if you’re interested in buying the new Rio also consider its competitors.   

Rio 1.2 62kW LS Manual                     R219,995

Rio 1.4 74kW LX Manual                     R234,995

Rio 1.4 74kW EX Manual                    R249,995

Rio 1.4 74kW TEC Manual                  R274,995

All models are available with an optional automatic transmission for an additional R13,000. A sunroof is available as an option on the Rio TEC for an additional R8,500.

Adding even further value to the KIA Rio package is KIA’s class-leading 5-year/Unlimited Kilometre Warranty, inclusive of 5-years/Unlimited Kilometres Roadside Assistance as standard, as well as a 4-year/60,000km Service Plan.