Despite being only a year after Kia gave the current, fourth generation Rio supermini a mild refresh, the Koreans are preparing its successor.
The prototype we shouldn’t have photographed at the brand’s German headquarters is at an advanced stage wearing a full production body under the blankets. Seen here in a five-door body style, the new Rio looks like it will drop some of the more joyful curves found on today’s model for a more mature appearance, while maintaining a similar footprint.
Little is known about the subcompact’s engine lineup at this point, but it’s very likely that the American model will continue with the Korean group’s 1.6-liter GDI inline-four gasoline unit, while the European specification car may get updated versions of the existing petrol and diesel mills.
The new hatchback should make its first appearance towards the end of the year or early 2017, followed shortly after by the four-door sedan version.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops
