After oversized wheels, another popular design feature in the car industry is the big grille. It’s not all about luxury automakers like Audi and BMW – even Kia seems to be planning such a feature for the 2021 Rio.
The subcompact hatchback was spied once again sporting heavy camouflage on the front and back ends as well as the doors, so trying to spot some of the changes is close to impossible.
However, if it’s one thing that’s expected to change, that’s the size of the upper and lower grilles, as they’re reportedly about to become bigger. We have yet to confirm this rumor and will perhaps have to wait until the end of this year or early 2021 for the Korean firm to uncover the refreshed Rio and clear up the mystery.
Review: 2019 Kia Rio Does What It Says On The Tin
Besides the larger grilles, the subcompact model should get redesigned lights at both ends, revised bumpers, new wheels and probably a revised color palette. The visual makeover will help Kia keep the Rio in the market for a few more years, hoping to steal more sales from more established superminis such as the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, Peugeot 208 and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa.
The small hatchback is likely to feature a few changes inside as well, with a new infotainment system seemingly on the list, alongside different trim and upholstery options. In order to fall in line with the latest emission standards, the 2021 Rio is believed to get a few changes in the engine family. However, without official hints or internal leaks, it’s pretty much impossible to tell what will be new under the bonnet.
![](https://www.carscoops.com/wp-content/themes/carscoops/assets/images/icons/arrow.png"){kind=icon}