Kia’s Rio-Based Crossover Could Go Down The PHEV Lane

Following the presentation of the Niro earlier this year, Kia’s foray into

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by Cristian Gnaticov

August 5, 2016 at 21:03

Following the presentation of the Niro earlier this year, Kia’s foray into the sub-compact crossover segment will see the Koreans develop a new Rio-based model.

The supermini is already planned to launch in 2017, and its high-riding sibling is expected to follow shortly after, as AutoExpress writes, citing the brand’s head of Western Europe Team, John Kim: “Kia is launching some new products next year, such as a new Rio, with an SUV as well.“

Apart from the usual assortment of 4-cylinder gasoline engines, Kia is also believed to go for a plug-in hybrid version. However, it remains unclear whether it will use a setup identical to the one found on the Niro, meaning a 1.6-liter petrol unit and an electric motor, producing a total output of 146 HP and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque, or a different powertrain.

Whatever the case may be, expect the as-of-yet unnamed subcompact crossover to command a premium over the standard model, and if you somehow believe that all-wheel drive will be part of the package, you will be disappointed to learn that the vehicle will stick to the same FWD layout as the Rio.

Note: Kia Trail’ster Concept pictured