Kia Rio 1.4 TEC

Hoping to build on the popularity of the previous model, the new Kia Rio has been almost completely redone. The engines and gearboxes are the same, but the chassis, the styling and interior are all new. More importantly, it now has an advantage over the cars it competes against. Make & Model Kia Rio 1.4 TEC Engine In-line four-cylinder, 1 396cc Power 74 kW @ 6 300 rpm Torque 135 Nm @ 4 200 rpm Power to weight ratio 65,48 kW/ton Gearbox Six-speed manual, FWD Wheels/tyres 17-inch alloy, 205/45 R17 tyres 0-100 km/h 11,5 sec Top speed 176 km/h Fuel tank capacity 45 litres Fuel consumption (claimed) 5,8 litres/100km Operating range (claimed) 776 km CO2 emissions 137 g/km Pros Sophisticated design, good spec and comfort. Cons Isn’t as much fun as its competition. Retail price / as tested R274 995 / R293 495 Key rivals Ford Fiesta 5-door 1.0 Titanium R264 900 Honda Jazz 1.5 Dynamic R285 600 Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TSI Highline R276 300