Specifications and pricing have been announced for the 2019 Kia Rio range, headlining the changes are realigned trim levels and new drivetrains with prices starting at $16,990 plus on-road costs.
Gone are the Si and SLi models, these have been replaced by the new Sport and GT-Line variants whilst the S grade is retained.
Opening the Rio range is the entry-level S model which boasts a 1.4-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine outputting 74kW and 133Nm, it’s paired with either a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Standard features on the S grade include reverse parking sensors, rear-view camera, two ISOFIX points, six airbags and a six-speaker sound system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Stepping up to the new Sport grade adds 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, leather trim on the steering wheel and gear shifter as well as electric folding mirrors. Sport buyers can also option a six-speed automatic transmission.
Moving to the range-topping GT-Line brings a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine developing 88kW of power and 172Nm of torque, it’s mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The GT-Line also gets autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist and idle stop/start technology.
GT-Line grade vehicles will also be identifiable via a GT-Line body kit, LED Daytime Running Lights, LED Position Lamps, LED rear combination lamps and LED fog lamps.
Kia Motors Australia Chief Operating Officer Damien Meredith said, “Competition in this segment is extremely tough but we have continued to listen to what our customers and the industry commentators say and made improvements based on that feedback.”
The 2019 Rio will also be offered with Kia’s seven-year warranty, unlimited kilometre warranty with seven years of capped-price servicing and roadside assistance.
2019 Kia Rio pricing (excluding on-road costs unless otherwise stated):
Rio S manual - $16,990
Rio S automatic - $17,490 drive-away
Rio Sport manual - $17,990 drive-away
Rio Sport automatic - $18,990
GT-Line DCT - $21,990 drive-away
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