Kia sets US pricing for 2012 five-door Rio hatchback
US buyers will pay from $13,600 for the new-generation five-door Kia Rio, which comes in three trim levels and offers a 1.6-litre GDI engine as standard.
Kia has announced US pricing for the 2012 five-door Rio, with the entry-level LX starting at $13,600. The new-generation hatchback reaches American showrooms with three trim levels and a standard 1.6-litre petrol engine across the range.
The base LX comes equipped with air conditioning, electric power steering and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, including USB and auxiliary input. SiriusXM satellite radio is standard, and safety features include electronic stability control, four-wheel ABS, hill-start assist and vehicle stability management. Buyers wanting an automatic gearbox will pay $1,100 more for the LX automatic.
Moving up to the EX trim brings additional equipment, though Kia has not detailed the full list in this announcement. The range-topping SX, priced at $18,000, adds LED headlamp and taillight accents, projection headlamps, fog lamps, a sport-tuned suspension with larger front brakes, 17-inch alloy wheels and twin chrome exhaust tips. The SX also features Kia's UVO voice-activated infotainment system powered by Microsoft, with a 4.3-inch touchscreen and rear camera display included as standard.
Engine and transmission details
All versions of the 2012 Rio five-door are powered by a 1.6-litre GDI four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, depending on trim and preference. Kia quotes EPA fuel economy estimates of 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway for manual transmission models.
Features and safety equipment
Standard safety equipment on all trims includes electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, four-wheel anti-lock brakes and hill-start assist. The focus on safety and equipment at the entry level reflects Kia's strategy to compete with established rivals in the US small car market. The SX trim's inclusion of LED lighting and infotainment features such as the UVO system targets buyers looking for premium technology in a budget hatchback.
US market position and rivals
The five-door Rio arrives as Kia's answer to the growing demand for well-equipped, fuel-efficient hatchbacks in the US. Its pricing undercuts many direct rivals, while the standard 138 hp engine offers more power than several competitors at this price point. The Rio joins a segment that includes the Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic and Hyundai Accent, all of which have recently refreshed their offerings for US buyers.
The 2012 Rio five-door is expected to reach US showrooms in late 2011. Full equipment lists for each trim and further details on options are expected closer to launch.
