What's the news?
We knew that Kia's big launch at the Paris Motor Show was going to be the new Rio - larger, more spacious, more sophisticated, arguably more handsome and now powered by Kia's excellent 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine. Alongside the new Rio on Kia's stand though are two significantly updated models - the Carens and the Soul.
The updated Soul gets new bumpers, an under-engine bash plate for a more SUV-ish look, new lights and daytime running lights, revised grille and new paint and wheel options.
Inside there is new upholstery and some changes to the switchgear, with the choice of an Orange or Red highlight pack or an 'Urban Active' pack for those who want a little more style. You can choose from a touchscreen in 5-inch, 7-inch or 8-inch sizes, and like the new Rio, those come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections. On the safety front, there's also now the option of Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
For the first time ever there's also a hot version of the Soul. Using a 204hp 1.6 turbo petrol engine, the Soul T-GDI can do 0-100km/h in 8.7 seconds and go on to a top speed of 200km/h. It's front-wheel drive with a seven-speed DCT dual clutch gearbox and it gets its own unique 18-inch alloy wheels. There are some interior tweaks too, including a flat-bottom steering wheel.
Meantime, the Carens MPV gets new bumpers and grille, new rear lights, one new colour ('Mysterious Blue - love that...) and new alloy wheels. Inside there are some updates to the trim and materials, including some gloss black panels that are said to improve the cabin quality and ambience, plus a choice of 7-inch or 8-inch toushscreens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are also some new safety tweaks including Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert; and a Speed Limit Information Function. Buyers can also specify a new JBL Premium Sound system for greater audio quality throughout the cabin.