9:30 AM - Kia just launched their all-new Rio subcompact and their latest concept, the Mesa SUV, in a world premier.The new Rio is longer and wider than the outgoing model. Kia claims the interior is more spacious than the current Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla rivals. Power will come from a 1.6-litre inline-4 making 110 horsepower. Security features will include front, side and side-curtain airbags for a total of 6. The Rio will be on sale in the US in summer 2005. No word yet as to when it will be available in Canada nor has pricing been announced. The Rio5, a 5 door version as the name indicates, will make its debut t the New York Auto Show this April.The Mesa Concept is a body-on-frame sport/utility vehicle that is bigger than the Sorento. Among its features are 22-inch wheels, power-retractable running boards and rear step. It also has 3 rows of race inspired seats and full-length dual skylights. The all-new Sportage, already at dealerships in Canada, is a far cry from the original. As the twin of the Hyundai Tucson, it is larger and more powerful than its predecessor. Buyers now have the choice between a 4 or 6 cylinder engine and either front or all-wheel drive.Pictures by Ray Watson are available in the PHOTO GALLERY .
Kia launches all-new Rio and shows off Mesa Concept