The Rio is just the latest model in Kia's range to be made available in the GT-Line specification, following the recent introduction of Sportage, Picanto, Sorento and the upcoming Stinger GT-Line models.
At the heart of the GT-Line philosophy is the styling, which in the case of the Rio includes a gloss-black and chrome "tiger-nose" grille, unique GT-Line 17-inch alloy wheels, and the manufacturer's distinctive "ice-cube" LED fog lamps. Other exterior enhancements include twin exhaust tips, LED daytime running lights, chrome window trim, a gloss black roof spoiler and sill highlights.
Under the bonnet to begin with will be a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine that develops 118bhp and 171Nm of torque. The engine comes paired to a six-speed manual gearbox, and the Rio GT-Line with this combination can achieve fuel economy of up to 60.1 mpg, and puts out CO2 emissions of 107 g/km.
However, from the third quarter of this year the GT-Line version of the Rio will also be available with more powerful 1.25 and 1.4-litre petrol engine options, as well as Kia's seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
"The Rio is one of Kia's best-selling cars globally, and we have already sold more than 54,000 units of the new model in Europe after it went on sale in the first quarter of 2017," said Kia Motors Europe chief operating officer Michael Cole.
"The new GT-Line specification enhances the car's desirability and will help grow Rio sales in 2018 and beyond, thanks to its range of comfort and safety features, superb versatility, and confident, sporty styling."
The new Kia Rio GT-Line will go on sale across Europe from the spring of this year.
