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Next-gen Rio, updated Soul: New Kia models at Paris motor show

Frankfurt - The fourth-generation Kia Rio makes its world debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.

The Rio is the Korean automaker's best-selling global model, with more than 473 000 units sold in 2015.

In its fourth generation, Kia says its new Rio will offer B-segment buyers "a compelling package, with an attractive new design, high practicality and convenience and more engaging ride and handling".

When will it arrive in South Africa? The Rio will go on sale locally during the first quarter of 2017.

Powertrains

The new Kia Rio will be powered by a new range of petrol and diesel engines.

A 1.0-litre T-GDI engine is available in either 74kW or 88kW specification. Both outputs are accompanied by a torque figure of 172Nm. Kia says both engine derivatives will deliver sub-100 g/km CO2 emissions.

READ: Here's what the all-new SA-bound Kia Rio will look like

Two naturally aspirated engines are offered alongside the 1.0-litre unit. A 1.25-litre produces 84kW/122Nm, while the 1.4-litre is good for 62kW/132Nm.

A 1.4-litre diesel engine can be chosen with either 52kW or 66kW outputs. 

All engines apply power to the front wheels, either through a five-speed manual transmission for the 1.25-litre and 74kW 1.0-litre; or a six-speed manual transmission for the 1.4-litre petrol engine, the higher-output 88kW 1.0-litre, and both 1.4-litre diesel engines.

Increased safety

The Rio, Kia says, will be the first car in the B-segment to feature Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian recognition. AEB is paired with a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS).

The new Rio is fitted with six airbags as well as Isofix child-seat tether and anchor points for front and rear passenger seats.

Gallery: 2017 Kia Rio

The Rio is fitted as standard with Kia’s Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). VSM ensures stability under braking and cornering, detecting a loss in traction and using ESC to help the driver keep the car on course.

Image: MotorPress

New Soul

Kia has revealed its updated Soul at the 2016 Paris auto show that will see the compact SUV featuring the company’s 150kW 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine. 

Powered by the turbo engine, the new Soul will be the most powerful Soul that KIA has ever produced. Accelerating from zero to 100km/h in 7.8sec and on to a top speed of 200km/h, this Soul will return a claimed 6.9-litres/100km.

Ring the changes

The engine transmits its power to the front wheels through Kia’s new seven-speed double-clutch transmission (7DCT). Added to the vehicle is a Drive Mode Selector, which allows drivers to switch between Normal, Eco and Sport modes.

The Soul 1.6 T-GDI is differentiated from conventional models in the Soul range with a series of exterior modifications, including a bolder front bumper and air intake grille design, twin exhaust pipes at the rear, and its own 10-spoke 18” aluminium alloy wheel design. 

The new model features its own distinctive cabin colour scheme, with black cloth and leather upholstery paired with orange stitching, says Kia. A D-shaped steering wheel and orange highlights throughout the cabin, including orange metal paint on the gearstick.

Image: MotorPress

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