A U T O     B U Z Z

Kia Updates Affordable Rio Sedan and Hatchback

If you're thinking that the new Mitsubishi Lancer is the most affordable Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit you can buy in the Philippine market, think again. It's actually the Korean-made Kia Rio sedan and hatchback--and for the 2003 model year, they have been freshened up with a new exterior and a sharper interior.

Both the 1.3-liter sedan and 1.5-liter hatchback share the same changes which include new headlamp treatments, a bolder front grille and improved hood creases. Inside, the interior has been given a refreshing touch with new and improved materials plus better build quality.

Mechanically, both of these Kias remain as before. There are subtle improvements to the brakes thanks to larger front ventilated disc brakes. The suspension has been beefed up even more thanks to re-positioned trailing arms as well as a longer traveling torsion beam rear axle.

Boasting the same 1.3-liter powertrain as before, the Rio 4-door sedan has 82 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 118 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm. The compact dimensions are complimented by 13-inch alloys. Inside, the sedan is a bit spartan with just power steering, air con and a stereo cassette with 4-speaker system as standard. The list price for the 2003 model is PHP 499,000.

On the other hand, the 1.5-liter hatchback is decisively better equipped thanks to a driver's airbag, all power amenities, a 60/40 split-fold rear seats, a driver's arm rest and a rear power socket. The list price is PHP 619,000.

Both come with the longest warranty in the Philippines: 3-years / 110,000 kilometers.

For complete specifications for both the Kia Rio Hatchback and Sedan, click here.

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