2011 Geneva Preview:2012 Kia Rio

The 2012 Kia Rio will be at the International Motor Show in Geneva in a few weeks.

The latest car to be revealed by Kia boasts a far slicker exterior design than the current Rio bringing it in line with the rest of South Korean company's passenger model range. There are no photos of the interior, but Kia says its newcomer "will deliver a high level of quality previously associated with larger models" along with a wider selection of trim options.

Available in 3- and 5-door body styles, the Rio "combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that communicates Latin flair." While we're not so sure about the latter statement, the redesigned model has a sportier front fascia, distinctive headlights, and a prominent C-pillar.

Kia confirms that 2012 Rio will go on sale in the U.S. in the third quarter of 2011. Pricing and range details will be announced closer to launch.




Press Release

First photos of all-new Kia Rio released

• Korean spice and Latin flair for Kia's B-segment newcomer
• Available in 3- and 5-door body styles in Europe
• Offered with wide range of fuel-efficient and low-CO2 engines
• New Rio to be unveiled at Geneva Show, alongside new Picanto

Frankfurt, 11 February 2011 - Kia Motors Corporation has today revealed the first official photos of the forthcoming next generation Rio, which boasts a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the newcomer in line with the rest of Kia's striking design-led model range.

Tasked with the difficult job of improving upon the remarkable international sales success of the previous generation model, the new Kia Rio will be available in 3- and 5-door body styles in Europe, and has been designed to appeal to customers all around the world.

New Rio has its own interpretation of Kia's signature grille, integrated with the headlamps to give a new twist on the Kia family look. In profile, the body to glass ratio and its strong wedge form give new Rio a dynamic sporty stance. The balance of the window graphic, wheelbase and overall proportions generates a �premium presence' which is rare in this segment. Overall, new Rio combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that communicates Latin flair.

The new model features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm) and promises greater passenger space and comfort, together with increased cargo capacity to 292 litres (hatchback) and 390 litres (sedan). Exterior dimensions changes include: +55 mm (overall length), -15 mm (height) and +25 mm (overall width) to enhance the feeling of sportiness.

Inside, the new model will deliver a high level of quality previously associated with larger models - together with a wide selection of trim options.

Kia's B-segment newcomer will be manufactured with an extensive range of fuel-efficient and low-CO2 gasoline and diesel engines - including a 1.1-litre diesel unit generating 70 ps, with CO2 emissions from as low as 85 g/km. An all-new, high-performance 1.2-litre Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) will also be available from 2012.

Soon-Nam Lee, Director of Overseas Marketing, Kia Motors Corporation, commented: "This new model is a big step forward. The Rio has always been successful, and with this new incarnation we have a car which is extremely attractive, that people will want to buy for its looks." Since its launch in 2005, global sales of the current-generation Rio have totalled more than 860,000 units. It was the company's third best-selling vehicle in overseas markets during 2010 with sales of more than 219,000 units.

The world premiere of the new Kia Rio will be celebrated at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 - alongside another all-new product for Kia, the next generation Picanto city car - during its press conference, taking place at 16.15 (CET) on the Kia stand in Hall 6. Also being displayed at Geneva, and making its European debut, is the innovative hybrid version of Kia's stunning Optima sedan, scheduled to go on sale in the US market later this year.

2011 Geneva Preview:2012 Kia Rio

The 2012 Kia Rio will be at the International Motor Show in Geneva in a few weeks.

The latest car to be revealed by Kia boasts a far slicker exterior design than the current Rio bringing it in line with the rest of South Korean company's passenger model range. There are no photos of the interior, but Kia says its newcomer "will deliver a high level of quality previously associated with larger models" along with a wider selection of trim options.

Available in 3- and 5-door body styles, the Rio "combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that communicates Latin flair." While we're not so sure about the latter statement, the redesigned model has a sportier front fascia, distinctive headlights, and a prominent C-pillar.

Kia confirms that 2012 Rio will go on sale in the U.S. in the third quarter of 2011. Pricing and range details will be announced closer to launch.




Press Release

First photos of all-new Kia Rio released

• Korean spice and Latin flair for Kia's B-segment newcomer
• Available in 3- and 5-door body styles in Europe
• Offered with wide range of fuel-efficient and low-CO2 engines
• New Rio to be unveiled at Geneva Show, alongside new Picanto

Frankfurt, 11 February 2011 - Kia Motors Corporation has today revealed the first official photos of the forthcoming next generation Rio, which boasts a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the newcomer in line with the rest of Kia's striking design-led model range.

Tasked with the difficult job of improving upon the remarkable international sales success of the previous generation model, the new Kia Rio will be available in 3- and 5-door body styles in Europe, and has been designed to appeal to customers all around the world.

New Rio has its own interpretation of Kia's signature grille, integrated with the headlamps to give a new twist on the Kia family look. In profile, the body to glass ratio and its strong wedge form give new Rio a dynamic sporty stance. The balance of the window graphic, wheelbase and overall proportions generates a �premium presence' which is rare in this segment. Overall, new Rio combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that communicates Latin flair.

The new model features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm) and promises greater passenger space and comfort, together with increased cargo capacity to 292 litres (hatchback) and 390 litres (sedan). Exterior dimensions changes include: +55 mm (overall length), -15 mm (height) and +25 mm (overall width) to enhance the feeling of sportiness.

Inside, the new model will deliver a high level of quality previously associated with larger models - together with a wide selection of trim options.

Kia's B-segment newcomer will be manufactured with an extensive range of fuel-efficient and low-CO2 gasoline and diesel engines - including a 1.1-litre diesel unit generating 70 ps, with CO2 emissions from as low as 85 g/km. An all-new, high-performance 1.2-litre Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) will also be available from 2012.

Soon-Nam Lee, Director of Overseas Marketing, Kia Motors Corporation, commented: "This new model is a big step forward. The Rio has always been successful, and with this new incarnation we have a car which is extremely attractive, that people will want to buy for its looks." Since its launch in 2005, global sales of the current-generation Rio have totalled more than 860,000 units. It was the company's third best-selling vehicle in overseas markets during 2010 with sales of more than 219,000 units.

The world premiere of the new Kia Rio will be celebrated at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 - alongside another all-new product for Kia, the next generation Picanto city car - during its press conference, taking place at 16.15 (CET) on the Kia stand in Hall 6. Also being displayed at Geneva, and making its European debut, is the innovative hybrid version of Kia's stunning Optima sedan, scheduled to go on sale in the US market later this year.

2011 Hyundai i10 facelift

Hyundai has released new details for the facelifted i10.

The facelifted i10 comes with a brace of new or revised engines: a new 1.0 three-cylinder Kappa engine replaces the 1.1 Epsilon unit, while�the 1.2 is upgraded with 13% more power and 9% less CO2.
The 1.0 now averages 67.3mpg on the combined cycle.

The new Blue model is powered by the all-new 1.0-litre three-cylinder Kappa engine, which returns combined cycle fuel consumption of 4.2 litres/100km and CO2 emissions of just 99g/km.

The upgraded 1.25-litre engine is 33 percent more efficient than the unit it replaces, packing 63kW, using 4.6 litres/100km and emitting 108g/km CO2.

Inside, the cabin has been upgraded with a new instrument cluster (with an eco-shift indicator), improved seats, additional chrome accents, and a rear seat cup holder. Four trim levels are available, but all models come nicely equipped with air conditioning, a six-speaker audio system (with iPod connectivity), power windows, and central locking.




Press Release

NEW CHAPTER STARTS FOR AWARD-WINNING HYUNDAI i10

• Comprehensively enhanced version of Hyundai's best-selling city car
• Introduction of the all-new Hyundai i10 Blue with 99 g/km CO2 emissions
• First of a new family of ultra-efficient Blue Drive vehicles
• New engines (1.0-litre & improved 1.2-litre) and Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) technology
• Cheapest five-seat car on the market to achieve sub-100g/km CO2
• i10 Blue - Road tax and London Congestion Charge exempt
• Still great value: priced from �8,195 with class-leading specification

Hyundai has comprehensively updated its award-winning i10 city car range. The range-wide update - which goes on sale 1st March - marks the arrival of Hyundai's first sub-100g/km Blue model, along with specification and design upgrades for the rest of the line-up.

The new and improved version of Hyundai's entry-point model represents a significant step forward over the outgoing i10. Chief among the changes are enhancements to the i10's design - both in the cabin and on the exterior of the car. These key design changes are in keeping with the brand's bold and progressing design language, bringing a clear family resemblance between the new i10 and other recently launched Hyundais, including the sleek ix35 and ix20 models.

A new and improved range of Euro V compliant engines blend clean performance with excellent fuel economy and ultra-low emissions. The latest i10 introduces the all-new 1.0-litre �Kappa' engine, which replaces the old 1.1-litre �Epsilon' unit. This cutting-edge three-cylinder engine achieves a remarkable 67.3mpg combined: the sort of cheap-to-run credentials that will resonate with customers as the cost of motoring continues to rise. The popular 1.25-litre �Kappa' engine has also been improved giving 13% more power (85bhp), 9.2% less CO2 (108g/km) and 8.7% better fuel consumption (61.4mpg) than the outgoing 1.25-litre �Kappa' engine.

To make the fastfivecars of the efficient new 1.0-litre engine, Hyundai has introduced an all-new model - the i10 Blue. This special �eco' edition of the i10 emits an astonishingly low 99g/km CO2, so it gains exemption from VED and the London Congestion Charge. It is currently the only sub-�10k five-seater car on the market to achieve this, and the first of a family of Blue models that will underscore Hyundai's commitment to environmental technology.

The revised range consists of four trim grades - Blue, Classic, Active and Style - all of which offer exceptional value for money. Equipment specification across the i10 range remains impressive, with usually optional features, such as air conditioning and the addition of an iPod plug-in, standard fit on all new i10s. As part of a class-leading equipment list, customers will also find four airbags, a six-speaker stereo, electric windows and central locking all as standard on all models. Prices start at �8,195 for the entry-level Classic model.

All new i10s come with Hyundai's world-beating Five Year Triple Care package, for total peace of mind. This package includes five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five years' roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks. It's an offer that is yet to be matched by any of Hyundai's rivals.

2011 Hyundai i10 facelift

Hyundai has released new details for the facelifted i10.

The facelifted i10 comes with a brace of new or revised engines: a new 1.0 three-cylinder Kappa engine replaces the 1.1 Epsilon unit, while�the 1.2 is upgraded with 13% more power and 9% less CO2.
The 1.0 now averages 67.3mpg on the combined cycle.

The new Blue model is powered by the all-new 1.0-litre three-cylinder Kappa engine, which returns combined cycle fuel consumption of 4.2 litres/100km and CO2 emissions of just 99g/km.

The upgraded 1.25-litre engine is 33 percent more efficient than the unit it replaces, packing 63kW, using 4.6 litres/100km and emitting 108g/km CO2.

Inside, the cabin has been upgraded with a new instrument cluster (with an eco-shift indicator), improved seats, additional chrome accents, and a rear seat cup holder. Four trim levels are available, but all models come nicely equipped with air conditioning, a six-speaker audio system (with iPod connectivity), power windows, and central locking.




Press Release

NEW CHAPTER STARTS FOR AWARD-WINNING HYUNDAI i10

• Comprehensively enhanced version of Hyundai's best-selling city car
• Introduction of the all-new Hyundai i10 Blue with 99 g/km CO2 emissions
• First of a new family of ultra-efficient Blue Drive vehicles
• New engines (1.0-litre & improved 1.2-litre) and Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) technology
• Cheapest five-seat car on the market to achieve sub-100g/km CO2
• i10 Blue - Road tax and London Congestion Charge exempt
• Still great value: priced from �8,195 with class-leading specification

Hyundai has comprehensively updated its award-winning i10 city car range. The range-wide update - which goes on sale 1st March - marks the arrival of Hyundai's first sub-100g/km Blue model, along with specification and design upgrades for the rest of the line-up.

The new and improved version of Hyundai's entry-point model represents a significant step forward over the outgoing i10. Chief among the changes are enhancements to the i10's design - both in the cabin and on the exterior of the car. These key design changes are in keeping with the brand's bold and progressing design language, bringing a clear family resemblance between the new i10 and other recently launched Hyundais, including the sleek ix35 and ix20 models.

A new and improved range of Euro V compliant engines blend clean performance with excellent fuel economy and ultra-low emissions. The latest i10 introduces the all-new 1.0-litre �Kappa' engine, which replaces the old 1.1-litre �Epsilon' unit. This cutting-edge three-cylinder engine achieves a remarkable 67.3mpg combined: the sort of cheap-to-run credentials that will resonate with customers as the cost of motoring continues to rise. The popular 1.25-litre �Kappa' engine has also been improved giving 13% more power (85bhp), 9.2% less CO2 (108g/km) and 8.7% better fuel consumption (61.4mpg) than the outgoing 1.25-litre �Kappa' engine.

To make the fastfivecars of the efficient new 1.0-litre engine, Hyundai has introduced an all-new model - the i10 Blue. This special �eco' edition of the i10 emits an astonishingly low 99g/km CO2, so it gains exemption from VED and the London Congestion Charge. It is currently the only sub-�10k five-seater car on the market to achieve this, and the first of a family of Blue models that will underscore Hyundai's commitment to environmental technology.

The revised range consists of four trim grades - Blue, Classic, Active and Style - all of which offer exceptional value for money. Equipment specification across the i10 range remains impressive, with usually optional features, such as air conditioning and the addition of an iPod plug-in, standard fit on all new i10s. As part of a class-leading equipment list, customers will also find four airbags, a six-speaker stereo, electric windows and central locking all as standard on all models. Prices start at �8,195 for the entry-level Classic model.

All new i10s come with Hyundai's world-beating Five Year Triple Care package, for total peace of mind. This package includes five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five years' roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks. It's an offer that is yet to be matched by any of Hyundai's rivals.

2012 Kia Rio

Kia has announced plans to unveil its all-new Rio light car at March's Geneva Motor Show, ahead of its mid-year Australian debut.

The new Rio will be longer and wider, as well as sit lower, than the current model - providing more room while sleeking out the design. According to Kia, the new look of the Rio is meant to "inject emotional appeal into the B-segment" and appeal to that crucial demographic of buyers, 25 to 49 year-olds.

The 2012 Kia Rio also has a character line which offers a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Kia also says the 2012 Kia Rio has a driver oriented interior and that it anticipates the new gen model will be even more popular than the current one.




Press Release

Next Generation Rio Marks Next Big Step in Kia's Design Revolution

The first official sketches of the next generation Kia Rio revealed today (Wednesday) show a powerful, bold design that marks "the next big step" in the company's ongoing design revolution. Longer, lower and wider than the existing Rio, the new model is designed to inject emotional appeal into the B-segment, targeting progressive, energetic consumers in the 25-to-49 age range. Described by Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, as 'sporty and elegant', the B-segment newcomer has a swept-back profile and a character line rising out of the front wheel which gives it a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Inside, new Rio will offer a feeling of quality typically associated with larger, more expensive models. The new Kia Rio will make its global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011.

2012 Kia Rio

Kia has announced plans to unveil its all-new Rio light car at March's Geneva Motor Show, ahead of its mid-year Australian debut.

The new Rio will be longer and wider, as well as sit lower, than the current model - providing more room while sleeking out the design. According to Kia, the new look of the Rio is meant to "inject emotional appeal into the B-segment" and appeal to that crucial demographic of buyers, 25 to 49 year-olds.

The 2012 Kia Rio also has a character line which offers a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Kia also says the 2012 Kia Rio has a driver oriented interior and that it anticipates the new gen model will be even more popular than the current one.




Press Release

Next Generation Rio Marks Next Big Step in Kia's Design Revolution

The first official sketches of the next generation Kia Rio revealed today (Wednesday) show a powerful, bold design that marks "the next big step" in the company's ongoing design revolution. Longer, lower and wider than the existing Rio, the new model is designed to inject emotional appeal into the B-segment, targeting progressive, energetic consumers in the 25-to-49 age range. Described by Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, as 'sporty and elegant', the B-segment newcomer has a swept-back profile and a character line rising out of the front wheel which gives it a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Inside, new Rio will offer a feeling of quality typically associated with larger, more expensive models. The new Kia Rio will make its global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011.

BYD S6DM live in Detroit?Video?

The dual-mode electric S6DM sport utility vehicle from Chinese automaker BYD Co. is displayed at the North American International Auto Show on Monday, Jan. 10, 2011, in Detroit.

The BYD S6DM will likely be sold in the U.S. following an American market introduction of the all-electric BYD e6. �BYD has U.S. sales of the e6 MPV scheduled for the first quarter of 2012.





Press Release

BYD to Announce Green Vision at NAIAS on January 10th

BYD Co., Ltd (BYD) is to reveal plans for the launch of US-ready green-technology vehicles and products. BYD plans to present their "Three Green Dreams" Strategy at the upcoming 2011 North America International Auto Show (NAIAS) from January 10th to 23rd. BYD will showcase their "Green City Solutions", their green electric vehicle series, and a portfolio of eco-friendly products including: solar panels, home energy storage units and energy-saving LED Lighting. This is BYD's fourth consecutive appearance at the Detroit COBO Center for the Auto Show.

BYD's "Three Green Dreams" focuses on renewable energy generation, environmentally-friendly energy storage and efficient energy consumption, covering solar power, Iron-phosphate energy storage and electric vehicles. BYD will present their short and long term "Green City Solutions" which includes plans to help cities electrify all public transportation, and reduce air pollution and carbon emissions at a low cost.

BYD's pure-electric vehicle -- the e6 Premier (2012 Year Model) and the brand-new dual mode electric SUV -- the S6DM will make their world premieres on the main floor exhibit space at the COBO Center at the 2011 NAIAS. The World's first mass-produced F3DM sedan low-carbon version and the core drive technology of the pure-electric bus, shown at EVS25 recently, will also be showcased.

The new 5-seat crossover -- the BYD e6 Premier (2012 Year Model) has a more dynamic and sporty exterior design. Equipped with BYD Iron-phosphate "FE" battery, the e6 Premier has an expected range of 300km (or 186.4 miles) on urban roads, while its projected top speed is 140km/h (or 87 mph). It only takes 40 minutes to fully charge the e6 on the 100kW fast charging cabinet and 6 hours to overnight-charge the e6 on the 10kW standard charging pole. These characteristics make the e6 ideal for daily commuters and in-town driving.

The core technology of the pure-electric K9 e-Bus is another BYD breakthrough in the field of electrified transportation. The specially designed in-wheel electric drive and the electronically-controlled air suspension allows this 12-meter-long e-Bus to have ample space and a low-floor for easy passenger loading and unloading. The K9 is able to run 250+ km (155+ miles) on a single charge.

The BYD S6DM SUV is the world's first independent 4WD dual-mode electric SUV. Traveling over 60km (38 miles) purely on electric power and over 310 miles extended range when engaging the environmentally friendly 2.0L gasoline engine, this SUV sports a 10kW electric motor (M1) paired with a smooth 6-speed dual-clutch transmission propelling the front wheels while a powerful 75kW electric motor (M2) powers the rear wheels.

The F3DM low-carbon version also features the BYD Fe battery together with a BYD 371QA 1.0-liter gasoline engine. This vehicle is equipped standard with a solar panel sunroof to parallel charge the Fe battery. Powered by the Fe battery pack alone, the F3DM can travel over 60km (38+ miles). The extended range HEV mode allows the car to achieve another 500 km (or 313 miles) with a maximum speed of 150km/h (about 93.2 mph).

About BYD

BYD is ranked #1 at the top of Bloomberg's and BusinessWeek's 2009 Tech 100 List and is the leading manufacturer of advanced, environmentally-friendly battery technologies like the BYD's Iron Phosphate battery. BYD's solar panels and LED Lighting systems have TUV/CE and UL listings, and the company enjoys rapid growth in consumer electronics space and automobile manufacturing under its BYD brand. With investments from Warren Buffett (Berkshire Hathaway) and MidAmerican Energy Holdings, today, BYD is the fastest-growing Chinese automotive and green energy technology manufacturer.

BYD S6DM live in Detroit?Video?

The dual-mode electric S6DM sport utility vehicle from Chinese automaker BYD Co. is displayed at the North American International Auto Show on Monday, Jan. 10, 2011, in Detroit.

The BYD S6DM will likely be sold in the U.S. following an American market introduction of the all-electric BYD e6. �BYD has U.S. sales of the e6 MPV scheduled for the first quarter of 2012.





Press Release

BYD to Announce Green Vision at NAIAS on January 10th

BYD Co., Ltd (BYD) is to reveal plans for the launch of US-ready green-technology vehicles and products. BYD plans to present their "Three Green Dreams" Strategy at the upcoming 2011 North America International Auto Show (NAIAS) from January 10th to 23rd. BYD will showcase their "Green City Solutions", their green electric vehicle series, and a portfolio of eco-friendly products including: solar panels, home energy storage units and energy-saving LED Lighting. This is BYD's fourth consecutive appearance at the Detroit COBO Center for the Auto Show.

BYD's "Three Green Dreams" focuses on renewable energy generation, environmentally-friendly energy storage and efficient energy consumption, covering solar power, Iron-phosphate energy storage and electric vehicles. BYD will present their short and long term "Green City Solutions" which includes plans to help cities electrify all public transportation, and reduce air pollution and carbon emissions at a low cost.

BYD's pure-electric vehicle -- the e6 Premier (2012 Year Model) and the brand-new dual mode electric SUV -- the S6DM will make their world premieres on the main floor exhibit space at the COBO Center at the 2011 NAIAS. The World's first mass-produced F3DM sedan low-carbon version and the core drive technology of the pure-electric bus, shown at EVS25 recently, will also be showcased.

The new 5-seat crossover -- the BYD e6 Premier (2012 Year Model) has a more dynamic and sporty exterior design. Equipped with BYD Iron-phosphate "FE" battery, the e6 Premier has an expected range of 300km (or 186.4 miles) on urban roads, while its projected top speed is 140km/h (or 87 mph). It only takes 40 minutes to fully charge the e6 on the 100kW fast charging cabinet and 6 hours to overnight-charge the e6 on the 10kW standard charging pole. These characteristics make the e6 ideal for daily commuters and in-town driving.

The core technology of the pure-electric K9 e-Bus is another BYD breakthrough in the field of electrified transportation. The specially designed in-wheel electric drive and the electronically-controlled air suspension allows this 12-meter-long e-Bus to have ample space and a low-floor for easy passenger loading and unloading. The K9 is able to run 250+ km (155+ miles) on a single charge.

The BYD S6DM SUV is the world's first independent 4WD dual-mode electric SUV. Traveling over 60km (38 miles) purely on electric power and over 310 miles extended range when engaging the environmentally friendly 2.0L gasoline engine, this SUV sports a 10kW electric motor (M1) paired with a smooth 6-speed dual-clutch transmission propelling the front wheels while a powerful 75kW electric motor (M2) powers the rear wheels.

The F3DM low-carbon version also features the BYD Fe battery together with a BYD 371QA 1.0-liter gasoline engine. This vehicle is equipped standard with a solar panel sunroof to parallel charge the Fe battery. Powered by the Fe battery pack alone, the F3DM can travel over 60km (38+ miles). The extended range HEV mode allows the car to achieve another 500 km (or 313 miles) with a maximum speed of 150km/h (about 93.2 mph).

About BYD

BYD is ranked #1 at the top of Bloomberg's and BusinessWeek's 2009 Tech 100 List and is the leading manufacturer of advanced, environmentally-friendly battery technologies like the BYD's Iron Phosphate battery. BYD's solar panels and LED Lighting systems have TUV/CE and UL listings, and the company enjoys rapid growth in consumer electronics space and automobile manufacturing under its BYD brand. With investments from Warren Buffett (Berkshire Hathaway) and MidAmerican Energy Holdings, today, BYD is the fastest-growing Chinese automotive and green energy technology manufacturer.

2012 Kia Picanto

Kia has released the details and images of the new generation, 2012 Kia Picanto which will have its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show.

Designed by the company's European design team in Germany, the 2012 Kia Picanto will be available with four engine choices, ranging from 1.0-litre to 1.2-litres in capacity, among which a new three-cylinder turbo diesel.�

Under the hood, power will be provided by "four all-new powertrains in 1.0- and 1.2-liter displacements." Details are limited, but Kia says they will all deliver "class leading CO2 emissions levels."

Peter Schreyer, Kia�s Chief Design Officer shared: �In profile, new Picanto features significant sculpting and a very prominent rising character line. The result is a layering of light and shadow and this breaks up the height, giving the car a more sure-footed stance.�

Source: Kia




Press Release

Next generation Kia Picanto - a design that's small but grown-up

• Kia releases first official photos of 'mature' and 'sculpted' new model
• Next generation offered in two body styles with four all-new powertrains
• Production vehicle to be revealed at 2011 Geneva Motor Show

(SEOUL) January 4, 2011 - Kia Motors Corporation has released the first official photos of the next generation Picanto city car, which now offers a bolder, more mature and more self confident look.

Completely redesigned and re-engineered, the new car has grown in overall length and wheelbase and is set to redefine its position as one of the fastfivecars competitive vehicles in its segment.

Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, said, "In profile, new Picanto features significant sculpting and a very prominent rising character line. The result is a layering of light and shadow and this breaks up the height, giving the car a more sure-footed stance."

Picanto has never been sold in Australia but Kia Motors Australia has not shut the door on the latest generation.

"While there are no immediate plans to bring Picanto to Australia we have been, and will continue, to look at opportunities in areas in which we do not currently compete," Kia Motors Australia Chief Operating Officer, Mr Tony Barlow, said. "The Picanto now has the advantage of being an all-new car and if it makes sense as a business case then it is certainly not off the agenda."

While the current Picanto is available only as a five-door hatchback, the new generation version will be offered as a five-door globally while a sportier three-door body style will also be marketed in Europe.

The new Picanto will feature four all-new powertrains in 1.0- and 1.2-litre displacements, all boasting class leading CO2 emissions levels. In addition to petrol engines, LPG bi-fuel and flex fuel variations will be available depending on market.

The next generation Picanto will be officially unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in March when further technical specifications will be available.