Kia Rio shown in Paris

The revised Kia Rio was revealed at the Paris Motor Show today. It sports a range of revisions to help it compete with models such as the new Skoda Fabia and the all-new Mazda2. The car will go on sale early next year.

The facelifted Kia Rio has been given a fresh grille design, plus a new front bumper and new foglights. Three new alloy wheel designs are now available in 15, 16, and 17-inch sizes, and the car benefits from a new rear bumper, too. Two new body colours – Urban Blue and Digital Yellow – join the six Kia already offers for its Ford Fiesta rival.

The interior has been brightened with chrome trim around the air vents and revised trim around the stereo. Even in the brown finish of the show car, this looks good. New options on the 2015 Rio include a DAB digital radio and a new-generation sat nav system.

The four engines from the current Rio line-up will remain, so buyers have a choice of 1.25 and 1.4-litre petrol engines or 1.1 and 1.4-litre diesel engines. The 1.25-litre engine is paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.1-litre diesel is fitted with a six-speed manual. The 1.4-litre petrol is the only one with a choice of manual or automatic transmission.

Kia’s European boss Michael Cole said: "The Rio retains the core attributes that have proved so popular with owners, and enhancements to the 2014 model include a slight visual makeover, giving it a fresh exterior and interior look."

For more information on the Kia range, including a video review of the current Kia Rio, visit the Carbuyer Kia reviews page.