2017 Kia Rio Sedan Debuts In Russia - 1.4L, 1.6L, 6-Speed Transmissions

Following the all-new fourth-generation Kia Rio's local debut yesterday exclusively in hatchback format, here comes a sedan version of the model that is set to be introduced in Russia soon.

For the Russian market, the Rio Sedan can be had with two engine choices. The first is a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine from Kia's Kappa family of engines, whilst the second engine is an improved 1.6-litre Gamma four-cylinder petrol engine. Both engines can be paired to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic.

While powertrain options may mirror that of the Rio hatchback, the Russian model here features a redesigned front end that separates it from the hatchback. The dashboard is also completely different from the hatchback model that was launched here recently.

Even in its most basic guise, the new Kia Rio Sedan comes with a generous amount of equipment, including air-conditioning, heated and power adjustable side mirrors, powered front windows, electric power steering with height adjustment and an adjustable driver seat. On top of that, the base model also comes with front airbags, ABS with VSM, Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) and for the first time ever, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Boot space is 460 litres. 

Assembled at Kia's production facility in St Petersburg, Russia, the new Kia Rio Sedan was specially designed with the Russian market in mind, as the new model features a 160 mm ground clearance, mud flaps and plastic protection for the oil sump. Elsewhere, Russian models also get anti-rust treatment, a larger 4.6 litre washer fluid tank capacity and a 60 Ah capacity battery for better cold season starts. Passengers in the rear will benefit from the rear air vents with a separate heating system. A full sized spare comes standard for all Rio models.

Prices start from RUB 669,900 (~RM48,736) for the entry-level Kia Rio Sedan Classic, which comes with a 1.4-litre engine paired to a six-speed manual gearbox. Moving up one level is the Rio Sedan Classic Audio, which retails for RUB 704,900 (~RM51,277). This variant adds a head unit with USB and AUX connectivity and heated front seats. The range-topping Kia Rio Sedan Premium adds an infotainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen with support for traffic information and speed cameras in real time. On top of that, the new infotainment system also supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The range-topping variant will cost RUB 989,900 (~RM71,995).

Seven colours are available, namely Fiery Red, Crystal White, Sleek Silver, Urban Grey, Phantom Black, Sunset Orange and Marina Blue. 

For the Russian market, the Kia Rio Sedan is backed by a 150,000 km or 5-year factory warranty, whichever comes first. 

Considering that the previous generation Kia Rio Sedan was offered here, could this model one day make it to Malaysia?