2017 Kia Rio prices revealed

Kia has managed to squeeze more into its all-new Rio without milking any more to its price.

The South Korean car maker has revealed local details of its fourth-generation small car ahead of its official on-sale arrival later this month, which is bigger, more efficient and has more standard equipment than its predecessor.

It will continue to be offered in three specification grade, starting with the popular entry-level S that costs $16,990 (plus on-road costs) when fitted with a six-speed manual transmission or $19,090 (plus on-roads) with the optional four-speed automatic.

The mid-level Si and range-topping SLi are both exclusively offered with the automatic gearbox and cost $21,490 (plus on-roads) and $22,490 (plus on-roads) respectively.

All three variants are powered by a carry-over 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine that has been recalibrated to improve fuel economy by reducing its peak power and torque outputs. It now generates 74kW and 133Nm (down marginally from 79kW and 135Nm) while its claimed average consumption has dropped from 6.3L/100km to 6.2L/100km with the automatic (the S with a manual is even lower at 5.6L/100km).

The car is physically larger than the model it replaces, which results in marginal increases in leg and headroom for all occupants as well as additional luggage space in its boot, increasing by 37L to 325L.

Kia anticipates the Rio will score a maximum five-star crash test rating thanks to its stronger body structure and the fitment of six airbags. But the Rio is not available with up-to-date driver aids such automated emergency braking when equipped with the ageing 1.4-litre engine. A more modern 1.0-litre turbo charged engine has been cleared for duty in Australia, and is offered with AEB and six-speed automatic transmission, but Kia is waiting to officially confirm the high-tech addition later this year.

Like all Kia models, the Rio's suspension has been tuned specifically for local conditions and customer preferences with improved levels of road holding and comfort.

All Rio variants come equipped with more standard gear, including a 7.0-inch colour touchscreen with smartphone mirroring and a rear view camera.

The entry-level S runs on 15-inch steel wheels with hubcaps, has cloth trim, air conditioning and a six-speaker audio system.

The mid-grade Si adds sat nav, cruise control, higher grade cloth trim, LED daytime running lights, 15-inch alloy wheels and chrome highlights on the exterior and gloss black highlights in the cabin.

The flagship SLi brings a touch of luxury with fake leather trim with premium front seats, larger 16-inch alloys, sunroof, tinted windows, automatic wipers and dual-zone climate control.

All Rio models are covered by Kia's benchmark seven-year warranty with capped price servicing.

2017 Kia Rio Price and Specifications

Rio S (man): $16,990

Rio S (auto): $19,090

Rio Si (auto): $21,490

Rio SLi (auto): $22,490

Engine: 1.4-litre four cylinder petrol

Power: 74kW at 6000rpm

Torque: 133Nm at 4000rpm

Transmission: six-speed manual/four-speed automatic, front-wheel drive

Fuel use: 5.6L/100km (man) / 6.2L/100km (auto)