Here’s Why Kia’s 2017 Rio Sub-Compact Isn’t Flying Under The Radar

Even though information about the new Rio was released a few weeks back, there’s no reason to think B-segment buyers visiting Paris won’t be sufficiently intrigued so as to check out Kia’s stand at the Auto Show.

Small cars are getting better and better, this much is clear. In fact, what we’re experiencing is a clear growth of the B-segment in more ways than one.

What we mean by that is that we’re not just finding new models with technologies that not too long ago were available only on premium products, but we’re also seeing larger and more comfortable/practical cars entering the segment.

The all-new 2017 Nissan Micra is a perfect example of where we’re heading, and so is the Ford Fiesta, if you’ve heard all the rumors about how the next-gen version is going to get bigger and better that is.

Kia’s answer to all of that is of course the new Rio, which features plenty of new tech and a surprisingly sporty design to go with efficient downsized engines that include a 98hp and 118hp 1.0-liter turbocharged three-pot, 82hp and 90hp 1.25-liter naturally-aspirated fours, and a 1.4-liter turbo diesel in 69 and 88hp versions.

With the new Rio, Kia says they have one of the most spacious cars in the segment, and that’s something small car buyers appreciate in today’s age. Same can be said about the Rio’s connectivity features since it has full Apple and Android smartphone integration, as well as live traffic updates through Kia Connected Services.

Future customers need to wait until the first quarter of 2017 in order to place their orders though.