Seattle, Washington - Why do most people buy a subcompact car? It's because they want something inexpensive to purchase and inexpensive to operate. Space is usually not a concern, as a single person or a couple who live in an urban area need something that will easily fit into their lives.
In the past, a little inexpensive car like that meant that you got what you paid for. As more and more North Americans are choosing to downsize, the smaller cars need to offer more to consumers.
The Rio 5-door from Kia is getting a much-needed total body makeover. This 5-passenger, 5-door hatchback is ready to go head-to-head with the current top cars in this segment. Peter Schreyer was in charge of the main design identity of this new Rio; he was head designer for both Volkswagen and Audi and has brought a much-needed insight into this new car.
The profile of the Rio is now much more athletic-looking. It has high-sculpted shoulder lines and a wedge-shape design. The front grille now looks similar to the rest of the Kia family and has a very balanced appearance.
The rear quarter panel reminds me of the Sportage with similar-looking, aggressive lines. A spoiler is standard on all models and not only enhances aerodynamics, but also adds a finishing touch to the sporty appearance.
"The all-new Rio was engineered to offer unparalleled blend of world-class design, safety, quality and technology in a fuel and practical package," said Robert Staffieri, Director of Marketing Kia Canada Inc. "Customers will be delighted to discover and experience all of Rio's attributes which rise above the typical subcompact fare."
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| The all-new Rio was engineered to offer unparalleled blend of world-class design, safety, quality and technology in a fuel and practical package. (Photo: Kia) |
In the past, a little inexpensive car like that meant that you got what you paid for. As more and more North Americans are choosing to downsize, the smaller cars need to offer more to consumers.
The Rio 5-door from Kia is getting a much-needed total body makeover. This 5-passenger, 5-door hatchback is ready to go head-to-head with the current top cars in this segment. Peter Schreyer was in charge of the main design identity of this new Rio; he was head designer for both Volkswagen and Audi and has brought a much-needed insight into this new car.
The profile of the Rio is now much more athletic-looking. It has high-sculpted shoulder lines and a wedge-shape design. The front grille now looks similar to the rest of the Kia family and has a very balanced appearance.
The rear quarter panel reminds me of the Sportage with similar-looking, aggressive lines. A spoiler is standard on all models and not only enhances aerodynamics, but also adds a finishing touch to the sporty appearance.
"The all-new Rio was engineered to offer unparalleled blend of world-class design, safety, quality and technology in a fuel and practical package," said Robert Staffieri, Director of Marketing Kia Canada Inc. "Customers will be delighted to discover and experience all of Rio's attributes which rise above the typical subcompact fare."
 |
| A spoiler is standard on all models and not only enhances aerodynamics, but also adds a finishing touch to the sporty appearance. (Photo: Kia) |