Facelifted 2021 Kia Rio Gets Improved Tech And A Mild Hybrid Engine

Kia Rio has arguably been the best small car in Nigeria for some time now and its popularity is proof of this claim. Now the beloved vehicle has a 2021 upgrade with lots of improvement both inside and out. Buyers now have more options to choices from and it’s great. Let’s see what the 2021 Kia Rio has to offer…

Starting from the exterior, you can see the tweak in the front although not too recognisable, the headlamps are now full LED headlamps with integrated DRLs. The signature “tiger nose” grille is now narrower with the front bumper lower and wider with a new foglight housing. As stated before you wouldn’t know the difference until it is compared with the current model.

• See Related Post: Gov. Makinde Buys 100 Kia Rio Patrol Vehicles To Tackle Insecurity In Oyo State

Moving on to the interior, the layout remains the same no doubt but new tech has been integrated. From the new 8.0-inch touchscreen, complemented by a higher-resolution 4.2-inch digital display in the instrument cluster. Also the famous Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be an optional feature.  All these and a Bluetooth multi-connection will be added to variants equipped with the 8.0-inch Display. All the fit and finishing to the interior has been improved. Additionally, all 2021 Kia Rio models are now equipped with driver and optional front passenger seat height adjustability.

The engine of the 2021 Kia Rio has the most significant improvement of all the changes. It comes equipped with a new petrol mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) powertrain. This powertrain dubbed ‘EcoDynamics+’, pairs Kia’s new ‘Smartstream’ 1.0-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) 3-cylinder engine with a 48V MHEV system for increased fuel efficiency via electric torque assistance and regenerative braking. However, the output still remains the same as the old engine (118hp) but its torque is more powerful now (147 lb-ft). It is obvious that this engine will not make its way to Nigeria, but don’t be discouraged as the regular 1.0-litre T-GDi unit and 1.2-litre power plant will be available. It will be available in a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch) gearbox.

What’s your take on this facelifted Kia Rio? Tell us in the comment section below

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