Sketch reveals daring new Kia Rio

Published Jan 12, 2011

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Here's a quick test: Can you think of the current Kia Rio without yawning? Well done if you can, but enjoy the boredom while it lasts because the next generation promises to be a lot more exciting.

Kia has released the first official sketches of its forthcoming Rio hatchback, Kia describing it as a powerful and bold design that marks the next big step in the Korean company's ongoing design revolution.

Longer, lower and wider than the existing Rio, the new model is designed to inject some emotional appeal into the B-segment, targeting those who want a stand-out design.

This new Kia will make its first public appearance at the Geneva Motor Show in March, alongside the all-new Picanto, and both cars should reach most international markets during the course of this year.

Described by Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, as 'sporty and elegant', the new Rio has a swept-back profile and a character line rising out of the front wheel which aims to give it a sense of movement and fluidity.

Inside, Kia claims its new Rio will offer a feeling of quality typically associated with larger, more expensive models.

Kia spokesperson Soon-Nam Lee said: "Downsizing is becoming more and more of a trend these days and a B-segment car as attractive as all-new Rio, with its driver-oriented cabin and interior trim options, will no doubt help consumers to be more comfortable making that switch."

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