Report: Kia to do a hot hatch version of the 2012 Rio

Posted: Mar 14, 2011

Email Add a Comment

2012 Kia Rio

According to AutoCar a hot hatch version of the 2012 Kia Rio could be offered to build the Korean brand’s image in Europe.

“The quality and design is much greater than the brand image represents,” said marketing and product planning chief Benny Oeyen. “You can improved this with cars. A helpful car for us would be a hot hatch, cabrio or a coupe.”

Oeyen said that the hot hatch Rip is the most likely option in the short term, given the segment’s popularity in Europe. “I can imagine a sporty Kia in Europe; we have to develop the brand,” he said.

The 2012 Kia Rio is available with four fuel-efficient engines with output ranging from 69-hp to 107-hp. Transmission choices include 5 or 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic.