[Auto] Kia ends production of the Rio in Mexico and begins the K3 era

[FNX Magokiler]

On December 13, the last unit of the Kia Rio, a model that was exported to Chile from that plant, left the production lines of the Pesquería plant (Mexico). This news does not take anyone by surprise, for the simple fact that the K3, its replacement, has already been presented regionally and has a debut date in Chile.

The Rio began manufacturing in Mexico in December 2016, and since then it has become one of the protagonists of the local market, being exported to all regional markets in both sedan and hatchback bodies.

Let's talk about the new K3. It measures 4,545 mm long, 1,765 mm wide, 1,475 mm high and has 2,670 mm between the axles. If we compare it with the Rio sedan, it is 160 mm longer, 40 mm wider, 15 mm higher and has 90 mm more between the axles.

The trunk capacity also grows from 505 to 544 liters. Thanks to these new dimensions, the brand emphasizes that the interior habitability and loading capacity of the new model is at the level of the upper segment.

Regarding the exterior design, the first change that stands out is its style inspired by what Kia already showed with the new K5, and which is based on the 'Opposites United' design philosophy, with a much more daring and futuristic appearance. , and at the same time advances in sportiness by taking the fastback-type silhouette of its older brother.

With this we see a more aggressive front and elements that give it a sharper stance, where the traditional reinterpreted Tiger Nose grille stands out, and which is flanked by new headlights that include a very distinctive LED lighting signature. On the sides there are black applications on the wheel arches, and a chiseled double-line waist that grows from the fender to create a more robust appearance.

 

 

The drop of the roof, as we said, shows off an elegant style, while at the rear, the new K3 shows off a clean design, with a thin line of LED lighting that connects both lights as a decorative element.

Inside, the new Kia K3 offers a modern atmosphere and a good appreciation of quality. The brand says it combines functionality with a level of fit and finish that surpasses its competitors.

Highlights include the integration of the instrument cluster and 10.25-inch infotainment screen into a single unit, the debut of a newly designed steering wheel inspired by the EV6, and a rather minimalist dashboard designed horizontally. Connectivity is guaranteed with the wireless connection to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but up to two devices can also be linked simultaneously via Bluetooth. It also offers USB Type-C ports for front and rear passengers.

The brand indicates that "a deeply reinforced structure" is used for the development of the new K3, although we do not know if it is completely new or was improved with structural reinforcements and the use of better steels.

The suspension system was also redesigned "to offer an excellent balance between comfort and control." It is worth saying that the Rio sedan today has independent McPherson front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension.

Another important change is the abandonment of the 1.4-liter Kappa engine currently used in the Rio sedan, and its replacement by the 1.6-liter four-cylinder from the Gamma family, which is also fitted in the Cerato. This block delivers 121 HP and 157 Nm of torque, and will be associated with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

 

https://noticias.autocosmos.cl/2023/12/17/kia-finaliza-la-produccion-del-rio-en-mexico-y-comienza-la-era-k3