We were invited to the launch of the all-new Kia Rio at e-Curve last week to take a sneak peek at Naza Kia’s latest offering – the All-New Rio. I always liked the sleek and young design of Kia Rio hatch, but the latest version took it even further in terms of looks, capability, and performance.

performances prior to the launch of Kia Rio
performances prior to the launch of Kia Rio

The event was hosted by JJ from Hitz FM with a couple performances that’s full of energy to pump up the mood. Datuk Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar, the COO of Naza Kia Malaysia, delivered a speech and officially launched the highly anticipated Rio.

According to Datuk Hafiz, the All-New Rio will allow Naza Kia Malaysia to tab into the growing B-segment market in Malaysia.

Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Ahbu Bakar, CEO of Naza Kia Malaysia launched the new Rio
Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Ahbu Bakar, COO of Naza Kia Malaysia launched the new Rio

The event showcases three different colors (5 available) and I think the design of the car is gorgeous. The signature “Tiger Nose” radiator grille looks sleek, and the LED daylight running light is usually only found in cars that are priced much higher. There’s automated folding mirrors and LED side repeaters at the back too.

The Rio also comes with 16″ (EX model) or 17″ (SX model) alloy wheels to complete the sporty exterior.

Electric Blue, Signal Red, and Clear White are among the color choices
Electric Blue, Signal Red, and Clear White are among the color choices

For a B segment car, the interior is rather spacious, and the centre console packed with Bluetooth connectivity and audio system by Arkamys that comes with AUX, USB, and iPod connectivity too. Other features include tilt and telescopic steering wheel, ABS, vehicle stability management, and six airbags.

Some of the premium features found only on the 1.4 SX model are sunroof, push-start ignition, front fog lamps, and cluster ionizer.

interior is sleek, and there's a full size spare tyre at the back
interior is sleek, and there’s a full size spare tyre at the back

Under the hood, the car is powered by Kia’s Gamma 1.4 MPI CVVT engine which produces 109 PS and 137 Nm of torque. That’s pretty impressive for a 1.4 liter engine that delivers 16.6 km per liter (just over 6 liter/100 km) with CO2 emissions limited to 130 gram per 100 km.

The motor is mated with a four-speed automatic transmission that comes with a shift gate for manual-style shifting, nifty when you need that extra boost to overtake on freeways.

mandatory picture of the cute model at the launch, Cheesie & I were there
mandatory picture of the cute model at the launch, Winner of the New Kia Rio, Cheesie & I

Oh, for a B-segment car, the boot space of Rio is plenty big as well, and I particularly love the fact that it carries a full size spare tyre so that you can just swap out the flat and keep going at full speed in the case of the inevitable.

The All-New Rio comes with a five year unlimited mileage warranty, if you’re in a market for a new ride, here’s one to check out.

Go to www.kia.com for more information on the All-New Rio.

Naza Kia Malaysia launches the All-New Kia Rio
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6 thoughts on “Naza Kia Malaysia launches the All-New Kia Rio

  • February 19, 2013 at 2:41 pm
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    Heard good reviews on this model. I’m sure this will sell like hot cake.

    Wilson

    Reply
    • February 20, 2013 at 8:09 am
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      Wilson: I think so too

      Reply
    • February 20, 2013 at 6:40 pm
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      ciki: haha so would you!

      Reply
  • February 20, 2013 at 9:22 am
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    waaah models soo nice, and oh, the cars is nice too, tee hee. Uncle uncle more pics of the gals maah haiyaaa, previous posts you taught us how to use camera, so you should show us your kung fu skills to take hot babes maah hehehehe. I am sure your hot gf dont mind, but i can distract her if you wannnnn…… can ah? ha?

    Reply
    • February 20, 2013 at 6:40 pm
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      immature: hahaha, next time!

      Reply

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