With the return of the biennial Paris Motor Show (PMS), Kia seized the spotlight by unveiling new versions of the most popular models in our line-up. Here at the 2016 Modial de l’Automobile, Kia Motors surprised and awed with the exciting world debut of the all-new Kia Rio, and upgraded versions of the Kia Soul and Kia Carens.
Keep reading find out more about Kia’s display in Paris!
All-new Rio takes center stage
This year’s Paris Motor Show marked the exciting world premiere of the fourth-generation Kia Rio. As Kia’s global best-seller, the completely redesigned and re-engineered Rio has arrived in an even more compelling package with enhanced aesthetics and functionality. It has been redesigned for a more dramatic and distinctive look, boasting sleek, straight lines and sophisticated interior. The bestselling model also delivers a powerful driving experience with responsive and engaging handling.
In addition to the improved design and ergonomics, the Rio will be the most technically advanced version of the model ever produced with new integration of the latest safety features and cabin technologies. Mature and sophisticated, the fourth-generation Rio will be manufactured at the Sohari plant in Korea and new production facility in Mexico, and will be available for the markets in early 2017.
Kia Soul receives powerful upgrades
Kia also revealed a number exterior and cabin modifications to our popular box car model. The Soul is now available in a wider range of colors with the addition of new metallic exterior finishes and two-tone interior color schemes. Both front and rear bumpers have been altered to give the car a more robust appearance. Kia’s latest infotainment HMI system with full smartphone integration is also available on the upgraded Kia Soul.
In addition to the upgrades to the Soul, Kia unveiled a Soul model variant with a powerful new engine. Powered by Kia’s 204 ps 1.6-liter T-GDI (turbo gasoline direct injection) found on the Kia cee’d GT and pro_cee’d GT, the brand new Soul 1.6 T-GDI is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds! The new seven-speed double clutch transmission paired with the engine provides instant and smooth gear shifts while the Drive Mode Select allows drivers to choose between Normal, Eco and Sports modes to cater to specific driving conditions.
This powerful new Soul differs from other models in the Soul range with distinctive new exterior modifications. The bold front bumper, new grille design, alloy wheels and color accents contribute to the sporty and edgy appearance of the Soul T-GDI.
Kia Carens refreshed and enhanced
The upgraded Kia Carens MPV is also available for viewing in Kia’s booth at PMS. Sales of the Carens have been growing steadily since its launch in 2013 and the MPV has undergone a series of enhancements to make it an even more ideal model for families
The face of the model has been redesigned with revisions to the bumper, headlamps and ‘tiger-nose’ grille resulting in a more sculpted appearance. A wider range of consumer options for the exterior finish, upholstery and color accents are now available as well.
As with the Soul, the latest touchscreen HMI system has also been applied on the upgraded Carens. DRIVE WiSE assistance systems will also be available for the first time as well. A newly engineered Eco Pack for the Carens engine will allow for reduced carbon dioxide emissions, with numbers dropping as low as 109 g/km. Stylish, sensible and now more eco-friendly, the upgraded Carens MPV is sure to catch of eyes of revelers at 2016 PMS.
Kia’s booth at the 2016 Paris Motor Show will be open for viewing at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from October 1st to the 16th. If you cannot make it, be sure to check our social media updates for more onsite photos and footage. We look forward to welcoming you to the world of Kia!