Kia to Unveil New 2006 Rio in Detroit Next Month

New Rio to be More Stylish, Sportier and Roomier than Predecessor

At $12,995, the Kia Rio remains the least expensive 4-door sedan in Canada, and along with the 3-door Hyundai Accent hatchback and

The very affordable and popular Kia Rio is getting an update, necessary to keep the tiny sedan up to competition in the subcompact segment. (Photo: Kia Canada)

Toyota Echo Hatchback which also cost $12,995, the cheapest set of wheels money can buy, less dealer incentives some domestic brands may offer.

Yet despite being inexpensive it offers attractive styling and unexpected features for the subcompact class. While sales have been strong throughout its first five years on the market, an update is necessary to keep the tiny sedan at the forefront of the segment now dominated by the Toyota Echo Hatchback.

An all-new 2006 Kia Rio is

The updated 2006 Rio is scheduled to be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month. (Photo: Kia Canada)

forthcoming, scheduled to be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month, on January 11th. According to Kia, it will be "sportier, more powerful and roomier."

Teasing would-be buyers Kia released two official sketches yesterday, December 14, 2004, showing a much more stylish Rio. The changes will run more than just skin deep, however, having been completely redesigned from the tires up to the greenhouse, for a car Kia says features "a longer wheelbase, a wider track and more horsepower than its predecessor, providing better handling, a smoother ride and improved levels of performance."