The Once-Lowly Kia Rio Comes Into Its Own

The next-generation Kia Rio will receive styling to match its confidence as the brand’s best-selling vehicle.

The automaker released design renderings of the looming 2017 Rio today, in advance of the model’s world premiere at the Paris Motor Show on September 29. The sad sedans that once populated the back of used car lots are now a distant memory.

For the next-generation Rio, Kia tapped the talent of its U.S., German and Korean design studios for a top-to-bottom revamp of the subcompact hatchback.

If you haven’t noticed, straight lines are back, baby, and the Rio adopts them with enthusiasm. A longer hood and front overhang, flat surfaces, and upright C-pillar give the hatch some swagger, while the restyled front end now belongs in the “angry grilles” category.

Kia doesn’t elaborate much on the model’s content, but does say that the next Rio will contain “class-leading” safety and connectivity features, as well as upgraded handling and sportier ride characteristics.

There’s no mention of an updated drivetrain. Currently, the Rio sports a 137-horsepower direct-injection 1.6-liter four-cylinder.

Production of the Europe-bound Rio begins late this year. The automaker will announce production dates for other markets closer to the launch date.

Kia sold 473,000 Rios around the world last year, but sales slid in the North American market as the model — last updated for the 2012 model year — grew stale.

[Images: Kia Motors]