The updated Kia Rio has the brand's first mild hybrid powertrain
Kia Rio is equipped with a new six-speed automatic transmission (the obsolete four-speed slushbox), 16-inch smaller wheels, and some additional safety and convenience.
Kia Motors has just carried out a mid-term update to the fourth-generation Rio Tinto hatchback. In addition to some minor style changes, the brand's first 48V mild hybrid powertrain will also provide an eye-catching B-type hatchback.
Kia’s new mild hybrid powertrain is called "EcoDynamics+", which pairs Kia’s new Smartstream 1.0-liter T-GDi engine with a 48V mild hybrid starter generator (MHSG) unit to provide higher performance-the highest Peak torque increased by 16%-and fuel efficiency.
However, the horsepower data of its replacement Kappa engine has not changed-the Smartstream engine will be available at a price of 100 hp or 120 hp. Kia said that more detailed information and performance data will be released in the future.
The new EcoDynamics + powertrain will be paired with the brand's Intelligent Manual Transmission (IMT), which uses "by-wire clutch" technology, which means that there is no mechanical connection between the transmission, clutch pedal and gear lever. Kia said this allows the engine to automatically shut down during coasting, thereby improving fuel economy overall without reducing driver involvement.
The previously mentioned 100 hp Smartstream engine can also be used in a non-hybrid setting, as well as the updated 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine, suitable for 84 hp. The former will now be equipped with a new six-speed manual transmission (previously five-speed) and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
In terms of style changes, the words here are subtle-most of the changes remain in front. The brand’s iconic “tiger nose” grille has been reduced to provide a “more concentrated look”, and the reshaped lower bumper pushes the fog lamp cover to the side, making the appearance wider and improving the driving route.
All variants are now equipped with LED headlights with LED daytime running lights. There is also a newly designed 16-inch alloy wheel to match the new exterior colors-perennial gray and sporty blue. At the same time, the updated GT Line of the Kia Rio looks almost the same as the GT Line launched in 2018.
In addition to the new 8-inch floating infotainment display, the cabin of the updated Kia Rio is actually the same as its predecessor. Depending on the level of decoration, the infotainment system can be specified as "display audio" or "satellite navigation", the latter with the brand's new UVO Connect "Phase II" telematics system.
The new system provides various on-board connectivity services, including real-time traffic information, weather forecasts, points of interest (POI), fuel prices, parking spaces and information, and online voice recognition to provide better voice command functions.
The "Phase II" UVO mobile app also allows car owners to remotely activate a range of functions and features (depending on the region), including sending navigation routes to the car before traveling, and accessing vehicle location and other telematics and diagnostic information.
Finally, Kia also includes an updated set of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) on the new Rio. The kit now includes the front collision avoidance assist system (FCA) with pedestrian, vehicle and newly introduced rider recognition functions. Driving assistance system (LKA), driver warning (DAW) and blind collision warning (BCW) are standard equipment.
Depending on the variant, the ADAS package can also specify the blind spot collision avoidance assist system (BCA), intelligent speed limit warning (ISLW), intelligent cruise control (SCC) and lane following assist system (LFA), rear intersection collision avoidance assist system (RCCA) and Rear Passenger Alarm (ROA).
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