Kia plans to turbocharge Rio

Kia is plotting a baby hot hatch to take on the Volkswagen Polo GTi.

The South Korean car maker has launched its fourth-generation Rio small car in Australia this week, but has hinted the initial line-up will be joined by a high-tech flagship model later in 2017.

The all-new Rio is bigger and better equipped than before, but the mainstream models are powered by an ageing 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine and have an antiquated four-speed automatic transmission.

However, the company has all but confirmed it will introduce a new more modern range-topper later this year with a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine and optional six-speed automatic.

Kia Motors Australia's product planning manager Roland Rivera admitted the 1.0-litre engine has been certified for local use in its top-grade specification, which produces 88kW and 173Nm, and that the brand is currently working through details in terms of pricing, features and positioning for the model.

Rivera indicated the car is likely to feature a more sporty appearance with different (and potentially larger) alloy wheels and a dressed-up body kit that could justify it being called the Rio GT - a badge Kia already uses on range-topping versions of its Optima sedan, Sportage SUV and the upcoming Stinger sports sedan.

In terms of positioning, the sporty small car is likely to match the range-topping SLi's pricetag of $22,490 but line-up with the mid-grade Si on equipment, missing out on things like leather trim and an electric sunroof while including critical connectivity elements such as sat nav, Bluetooth and smartphone mirroring.

The 1.0-litre Rio is also available with up-to-the-minute driver aids, such as autonomous emergency braking and forward collision warning, that aren't available on the mainstream models. Kia has yet to confirm whether it will be included in the Rio GT's standard features or be offered as an optional safety pack.

It is expected the sportier Rio will be officially confirmed in the coming months ahead of its showroom arrival later this year.

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