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2018 Kia Rio Arrives In New York As A Sedan

Kia has already shown the world the all-new 2018 Rio last fall at the Paris Motor Show. But that was only in its hatchback form.
Posted: April 13, 2017 - 2:38PM
Author: Will Maley
2018 Kia Rio Sedan

This week at the New York Auto Show, Kia premiered the 2018 Rio for North America in both hatchback and sedan forms. Compared to the outgoing model, the new Rio has become sophisticated in terms of the design. Up front is a toned down version of Kia's tiger nose grille and a more aggressive front bumper with larger air inlets. The back looks a bit muscular with a new rear bumper, taillights, and reshaped tailgate/trunk lid.

Inside, the Rio's interior has become a bit more spacious. Part of this comes from a redesigned dash that takes up less space. The other part comes down to Kia adding 0.6-inches to the overall length of the Rio. A more modern design and improved materials should help Kia's goal of making the Rio look and feel more upmarket. Most models will come with a 5-inch display with Bluetooth and backup camera. A 7-inch touchscreen with Kia's UVO infotainment system and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is only available on the top-line EX.

Power comes from a 1.6L GDI four-cylinder from the last-generation Rio. Kia has made some tweaks to the engine to improve fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Output is rated at 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual or automatic are the available transmissions. Kia has also reworked the suspension geometry and revised tuning for spring and dampers to improve ride and handling.

Pricing hasn't been announced for the 2018 Kia Rio. Expect to see it at your local Kia dealer later this year.

Pic Credit: Newspress USA