Kia announces prices and specs for updated Rio and Picanto

Kia has revealed prices and specifications for its updated Picanto and Rio models, bringing a raft of changes and upgrades to two of its smallest models.

Exterior-wise, the ‘tiger nose’ grille on GT-Line and X-Line Picanto variants has been given a new textured surround, which sweeps into the lower part of the headlights.

Redesigned headlights combine with new LED daytime running lights while LED combination lamps sit at the rear. A new choice of eight paint finishes is now available, while a new alloy wheel with a 16-spoke design has been added too.

Inside, the Picanto benefits from a larger eight-inch touchscreen system, which as well as Bluetooth connectivity brings both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. It also delivers live traffic information, weather forecasts and local fuel prices, too.

Cleaner, more efficient engines have been added, with a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit with 99bhp available alongside a naturally aspirated, 66bhp 1.0-litre unit in the range. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard on all engines, though a five-speed automatic is available on all grades except entry-level ‘1’.

A range of new assistance systems has been added too, with forward collision avoidance assist, vehicle stability management and torque vectoring included on all cars up from ‘2’ specification.

Prices for the new Picanto start from £10,745 with the 66bhp petrol engine with a five-speed manual gearbox.

The Rio, meanwhile, also benefits from a series of changes too. It too receives an updated front grille, as well as a lower and wider front bumper. A new set of 16-inch alloy wheels has been introduced too while two new exterior colours have been added.

The Rio also receives the same eight-inch touchscreen as the Picanto, included as standard on ‘2’ specification models and above. These cars also get a new 4.2-inch display in the cluster ahead of the driver.

A new mild-hybrid engine has been added to give the Rio a cleaner, more efficient edge. The new turbocharged 1.0-litre unit is linked with a 48-volt mild-hybrid, which helps to improve fuel efficiency while giving an added boost to performance. It’s available with either a manual or dual-clutch automatic transmission.

A new 1.25-litre engine has also been added, with the four-cylinder, 16-valve unit bringing increased efficiency benefits over the existing range of engines.

Prices for the new Rio start from £13,395.