2005 NAIAS: All-New 2006 Kia Rio Readies for World Premiere in Detroit in January

Redesigned Four-Door Sedan to Offer Enhanced Performance and Class-Leading Interior Volume

IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 13 -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today released the first official sketches and details of the all-new 2006 Rio sedan that will make its world debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 11, 2005.

Completely redesigned from the ground up, the all-new Rio will feature a longer wheelbase, wider track and more horsepower than its predecessor, providing better handling, a smoother ride and improved performance. The new Rio will also offer class-leading interior volume and six standard airbags, including full-length side-curtain airbags.

"As a value leader in the entry-level segment, the Rio has been an important part of the Kia vehicle lineup and the new Rio will add improved levels of style, performance and convenience to an already popular vehicle," said Peter M. Butterfield, president and chief executive officer of Kia Motors America. "The all-new Rio is an essential product for Kia globally, and we are pleased to have the opportunity to unveil it to the world in Detroit."

Like all of Kia's vehicles, the 2006 Rio will be covered by Kia's comprehensive 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, 10-year/ 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and five years of roadside assistance.

The all-new Kia Rio will be built at Kia's Sohari manufacturing facility in South Korea, and will be available in showrooms in Summer 2005. More detailed product information will be released at Kia's press conference at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 11, 2005.