Kia has turbocharged it’s Rio hatchback line-up with the introduction of a sporty GT Line model.
Featuring a three-cylinder 1.0-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) engine, Kia say the the new top-of-the-range Rio GT Line is set to deliver lively performance and motoring fun.
Replacing the 74kW, 133Nm 1.4-litre petrol, the compact three-cylinder engine provides the Rio GT Line 88kW of power at 6,000rpm and 171Nm of torque available from 1,500 to 4,000rpm. The new engine is paired with Kia’s 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Together, the new GT Line achieves a combined fuel economy rating of 4.71km/100km.
“Rio has become one of our best-selling cars since the fourth generation model was launched last year and the new GT Line specification serves to enhance its desirability,” said GM of Kia NZ Todd McDonald.
“We expect the GT Line to boost Rio sales in 2018 and beyond, thanks to its sporty style and performance, as well as the range of comfort and advanced safety features.”
As well as a new engine, the five door Rio GT Line stands out from the rest of the range with a gloss black and satin chrome tiger nose grille, unique 17 inch alloy wheels and quad LED fog lights.
The GT Line also adds twin exhaust tips, chrome window trim, a gloss black roof spoiler and sill highlights.
Read more: Kia Rio base-spec manual vs four-speed auto
In the cabin the new Rio features seats finished in black leather and cloth with grey stitching, a new D-shaped leather steering wheel similar to that on the Stinger GT Line model and new metallic trim surrounds on the door switches and gear lever, while the dashboard sees new carbon fibre-effect trim pieces.
The Rio GT Line also ads a number of new safety features including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Blind spot detection.
Other tech like Smart Proximity Key, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SatNav on a 7” touch screen and reversing camera are all equipped standard.
The Rio GT Line is now on sale at an RRP of $28,990 plus on-road costs and comes with Kia's 5-year/100,000km warranty.
Look out in Driven for our Kia Rio GT Line road test coming soon