What's all this about?
It's a few sketches of the forthcoming Kio Rio MkIV, due for its full unveiling at the Paris Motor Show in September/October. And doesn't it look handsome?
It does indeed. Have we got a full run-down on spec?
No, this is just the design preview, for both the sleek exterior and the attractive interior. The Rio gets a widened 'tiger nose' grille that's still connected to the headlights (unlike on the bigger Sportage crossover, whose face we're not that convinced by), a more upright C-pillar, cleaner lines and whopping alloys. Oh, wait, sorry - that's just the classic car designer sketch. It'll probably come on a set of 14s as standard, which will rather lessen the impact of its appearance.
Any physical dimensions stated?
Kia does say there's a longer wheelbase, which means more room within. Whatever the final spec, though, it's a car the Korean company must get right, as the brand sold in excess of 473,000 Rios worldwide in 2015. The new one needs to continue that trend - although the new styling should help it go a long way to achieving that aim.
Matt Robinson - 24 Aug 2016