The incredibly popular Kia Rio is getting a 3-door Sport model added to the family in New Zealand, but blink and you might miss your chance to get your hands on one.
Todd McDonald, General Manager of Kia Motors New Zealand, has made it known that the Rio Sport will be limited to a one-off shipment of 50 vehicles.
McDonald went on to explain the reasoning behind bringing in the vehicles in such a limited number. He said the goal was to introduce a 3-door Sport similar to the one available in Europe, but to add a touch of exclusivity by making only 50 available.
The 3-door body style comes with a low roofline that gives this version of the Rio an even sportier stance than the original.
Adding to that look are the 17-inche alloy wheels that are equipped with wider and lower profile tires.
The sporty look is also aided by the addition of daytime LED running lights in the front, as well as fog lights and smart cornering lamps.
The all new Kia Rio Sport model also comes with a proximity key that allows the driver to start the engine by simply pushing a button.
The sports look continues on the interior with the use of alloy pedals. As far as equipment goes, the 3-door Sport actually outshines the 5-door Kia Rio EX.
Included in the 3-door package is climate air control, reversing sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, tilt/telescopic steering, leather knob, trip computer, and a steering wheel with audio and cruise controls incorporated.
Also included is an audio system that is both iPod and Bluetooth compatible. Incredible sound performance is delivered via 6 high-performance speakers.
The interior offers plenty of passenger space, since the 3-door comes with the same dimensions as the roomy 5-door hatchback.
The dimensions of the vehicle come in at 4045mm long, 1720mm wide, 1455mm high, with a wheelbase of 2570mm, all of which combines makes it the largest in its class.
There is plenty of cargo space, too, with the rear hatch opening to deliver a 288-liter luggage space that can be extended to a massive 923-liters by taking advantage of the 60/40 folding rear seats.
Kia Motors New Zealand were able to keep the rights that allowed them to use the great little 1.4-liter CVVT petrol engine that appears in the 5-door Rio. The engine delivers a perfect combination of performance and fuel efficiency (6.4L/100km auto and 5.7L/100km manual).
The Rio Sport is available in 6-speed manual and 4-speed sequential shift auto and comes with a new generation suspension system that is designed to deliver improved handling and road holding, thanks in large part to the Electronic Stability program.
The 3-door Rio Sport was built to live up to the strictest safety standards in the world and boast a 5-star safety rating from both ANCAP and EURO ANCAP.
The starting price for the 3-door Kia Rio Sport in New Zealand comes in at $25,790 + ORC.
