One of the stars of the Auto Expo 2018 was Kia Rio. Indian hatchback enthusiasts may have to wait a little longer before they can lay their hands at it. The South Korean Automaker will finally start operations in India in 2020 and Kia Rio will happen to be its first offering for the growing Indian Hatchback Market.
Key features of the hatchback include a smirking tiger nose grille with flaring multi-reflector halogen headlamps. Further fog lamps placed above the air vents on the bumper add to the ignition roar of the beast. Though it\'s built on the same platform as the Hyundai Elite i20, the wings of the frame i.e scooped up the doors add more masculinity (something which its partner lacks in design). The new hatchback also rests on 15” alloy wheels and boasts of a larger windscreen.
Interiors will be draped in premium upholstery in line with the best on offer in rival hatchbacks.
But it is the host of safety features that would add to the X factor considering the Indian Terrain and roads. Besides an Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as well as 7” touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth will ensure that you don\'t get bored on long drives. Other highlights include:
Automatic emergency braking
Electronic stability control
Tyre pressure monitoring system
Forward collision warning along with vehicle stability management.
ABS and EBD as standard.
Day and night IRVMs.
Cruise control
Rear parking camera
6-way adjustable driver seat
Also Read: Mahindra Marazzo To Introduce On Sep 3
Under the hood, to remain competitive in an economic Auto Market, Kia will slash power figures that drive its International model. The Indian Rio variants will be powered by 1.2-liter petrol and 1.4-liter diesel 4 cylinder engine respectively. This will be in line with the Hyundai engines. Here are the power ratings of the Hyundai Models.
Hyundai Variant
Engine Type
Transmission
Petrol
1.2 liter petrol 4 cylinder
Both AMT and Manual Transmissions
Diesel
1.4 liter diesel 4 cylinder
Only Manual
Going by the brand\'s value, expect Kia to cost more than Hyundai. Experts believe that it would cost Rs 50,000 more than Hyundai i20. On Indian Roads, it will lock horns with the likes of Tata premium hatchback, Maruti Baleno, and the Honda Jazz.