The sub-compact car segment is nowhere near as popular as it once was, back when gas prices were close to $1.50/L, Canadian drivers preferring to buy small SUVs and crossovers instead.
Still, a car like the all-new, fourth-generation 2018 Kia Rio 5 doors, unveiled at the 2017 Montreal Auto Show last week, can appeal to young, urban customers in many different ways.
For starters, it sports a more dynamic and athletic look, with better proportions resulting from a longer hood and front overhang, a shorter rear overhang, 15 mm of extra length overall, and a 5mm lower profile. These new dimensions create more room inside for the head and shoulders, plus additional cargo space (now for a total of 493 litres behind the rear seats).
What’s more, the 2018 Kia Rio 5 doors will be one of the safest cars in its class thanks to 32% more advanced high-strength steel than the previous generation, Kia says.
Believe it or not, standard equipment includes a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and a 5” audio display with rear-view camera. Select trim levels also come with the brand’s first embedded telematics system, free for five years (the rest of the Kia lineup will follow suit shortly).
As for the powertrain, the Rio 5 doors will now use a direct-injected 1.6L 4-cylinder rated at 130 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic.
The new 2018 Kia Rio 5 doors will arrive at Canadian dealerships this summer. Pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date.
