It’s barely been six months since Kia officially unveiled the newest version of the Rio 5-door hatchback in the UK, but the Koreans are already delivering their first limited edition version of the popular model.
Known as the Kia Rio Pulse, the vehicle comes available in a pair of different exterior colors, each of which features bold red trim and accents.
Practicality and reliability are staples for the Kia, bit this model adds a little bit of flair that is sure to appeal to fans of sportier looking models.
There are sure to be a lot of questions about the new Rio Pulse, and we have tried to answer some of the more common ones below.
1. What is it?
The Pulse is the limited version of the Kia Rio 5-door hatchback released earlier this year.
Kia really upped the ante with the latest version of the Rio, delivering more room, better fuel economy, improved engine options, and improved connectivity.
This helps put the model among the best in the category, which includes the VW Polo, Renault Clio, and Ford Fiesta.
2. Pricing of the Kia Rio Pulse?
Pricing for the base Kia Rio in the UK starts at £11,995, with the top of the range model coming in at £17,445.
The Rio Pulse essentially slots in the middle, with a starting price of £14,595. Kia says that the Pulse has specs that are in between the Grade 2 and 3 trim levels.
3. Difference between the Pulse and other models?
There are a pair of exclusive exterior colors available with the Pulse limited edition model.
Those are the Clear White and Midnight Black.
You can get these paint shades on the standard model, but they are considered an option, and as such cost extra.
It is the red touches, found on the roof, front vents, mirror caps, and side skirt trims, that set the Pulse apart.
The red accents are also found on the inside, where red and black faux leather can be found. Red metallic paint is also used on the fascia trim.
The Pulse special edition model is also equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels shod in 205/45 R17 tires. There is a chrome surround on the black grille, as well as privacy glass on the rear side windows and tailgate.
4. Anything special about the interior?
The gear shift and steering wheel both feature leather trim, and you will also find sporty stainless steel pedals.
Entertainment and connectivity come courtesy of a 6-speaker audio system and a 5-inch color touchscreen that features DAB radio and RDS messaging.
Bluetooth with music streaming is also standard, as are numerous USB ports, a reversing camera, and a 3.5-inch cluster display.
5. Tell us more
Perhaps the biggest news is that the Pulse is part of a special sales event in the UK, but only for a limited time period.
Buy this car between July 1 and September 30 and you will receive free car insurance for a year, which includes miss-fueling coverage, as well as 90 days EU recovery cover and a courtesy car.
6. Will Rio Pulse go on sale in the US?
The bad news is that the Rio Pulse will only be available in the UK market and won’t go on sale in U.S. or Canada.
