IAA 2011: Kia Enhances Rio's Presence in Europe with New Three-door Version

Although five-door versions of most B-segment cars are more popular in most markets, in order to satisfy those customers that don’t need the practicality of the two extra doors and prefer a more dynamic look, Kia launched a three-door version of its new Rio at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Like its more practical sibling, with which it shares the same dimensions (4,045mm long, 1,720 mm wide, 1,455mm tall and with a wheelbase of 2,570 mm), the Rio 3d has been designed with the European consumer in mind.

In most markets, the 3-door Rio will be available with the same range of powertrains, equipment and options as the five-door model. Buyers will be able to choose from four three- and four-cylinder engines delivering between 75HP and 109HP.

The most powerful engine accelerates the new Rio from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 11.5 seconds and offers a top speed of 183 km/h (114 mph).

The most efficient model in the range is the new EcoDynamics diesel that boasts an extremely low average fuel consumption of 3.2 lt/100 km (equal to 88.2mpg UK, 73.5mpg US) and an industry-leading CO2 emissions figure of just 85 g/km.

Kia expects the three-door version to account for nearly 20-25% of the Rios total European sales.

 

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Facelifted 2012 Toyota Prius Quietly Makes World Premiere in Frankfurt

We're wrapping up the first press day of the 64th International Auto Show in Frankfurt, but not before we bring you one final unveiling that flew under the radar for most of the event.

We're talking about the 2012 Toyota Prius facelift that made its world premiere in Germany today. The changes on Toyota's updated hybrid include minor tweaks to its exterior and interior design, and the introduction of a fresh assortment of multimedia systems.

On the outside, the 2012 Prius gains a revised front bumper design with an enlarged lower grille, new clear lens headlamps featuring a revised LED lamp configuration, while Toyota also incorporated daytime running lights in the bumper.

Other exterior changes include the door mirrors that now have a power-folding function, the redesigned tail lamps and fresh alloy wheel options.

In the cabin, Toyota says the sensorial quality of the Prius has been improved through a change of colour scheme from dark grey to black, the addition of silver inserts and new upholsteries.

Furthermore, the centre console design has been revised, the push start button colour has been changed to a hybrid blue hue, and the multi-information display has been improved with a 16 gradation-step Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) that is claimed to provide a clearer and more three-dimensional display.

For 2012, the Prius also benefits from the addition of new and, according to the Japanese automaker, more affordable multimedia equipment choices.

Beneath the skin, the 2012 Prius remains unchanged with Toyota claiming a combined fuel economy of 3.9 lt/100 km in the European combined cycle, and CO2 emissions of 89 g/km.

 

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