New 2012 Kia Rio Featuring 1.6L GDI and Stop-Start

In brief: Kia Motors has introduced the new 2012 Kia Rio for the North American market, featuring a efficient GDI engine, stop-start technology, and a 40mpg highway boast.

Vehicle in the news

Make/Model: 2012 Rio
Manufacturer: Kia

The word

The Rio is a subcompact hatchback sedan powered by a 1.6L gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine with a 6-speed auto or manual transmission. The engine delivers 138hp and fuel economy of 30/40mpg (30 city, 40 highway).

New to Kia is the ISG or stop-start technology the Rio boasts. This is the primary motivator behind the 30mpg city economy.

The Rio has seen a complete redesign with a longer, lower platform and lighter weight thanks to the extensive use of high-tensile steel.

And so ...

The 2012 Soul also saw changes including the adoption of the 1.6L GDI and better fuel economy, but no ISG.

Photo credits: Kia