Kia Motors South Africa: KIA RIO Comprehensive active and passive safety systems

Comprehensive active and passive safety systems

For new Rio, an all-new bodyshell was created using a higher percentage of ultra high-strength steel (UHTS) than the third-generation model, enhancing the structure’s strength and rigidity.  To improve progressive deformation during a frontal impact, special attention was given to strengthening the engine-bay’s longitudinal side members, the fender apron and the transverse dashboard bulkhead to absorb and disperse forces more effectively.

The challenge of improving side impact protection, where crumple zones are much smaller, was tackled by fitting stronger side sill members made from roll-formed UHTS steel, with UHTS B-pillars and cross-members between the B-pillars at floor and roof level.  For further protection, the front door interior trims are optimised with armrest and trim components designed to minimise and evenly spread loads.

Pedestrian safety is an important factor in overall road safety and new Rio features a deformable hood with flexible hinges to reduce head impact forces, plus the removal of headlamp support structures to allow easier deformation and an additional 70 mm of crumple space behind the front bumper beam to lessen lower leg injuries.

The Rio has achieved a 5-Star safety rating in EuroNCAP crash tests, following the top 5-Star ratings of the Soul, Sportage and Sorento – and a ‘top score’ rating in other official crash safety tests around the world.

Passive safety equipment on the 1.2 and 1.4 models include front driver and passenger airbags and on the 1.4 TEC model up to six airbags (front, side and curtain), an ABS anti-lock braking system, reversing sensors (1.4 TEC only) and child safety-seat anchor points in the rear seats. Childproof rear door locks are fitted as standard to all models.

Every new Rio is equipped with a battery saver that automatically turns off the headlamps and any other active electrical systems when the engine is switched off, preventing the battery from running down when the car is parked.

More about the KIA RIO

• KIA RIO Introduction

  – Revolutionary new Rio family sedan to power Kia sales boom

• KIA RIO Styling & Design

  –  A sporty and stylish new sedan

• KIA RIO Comfort & Convenience

  –  Bespoke feel for sophisticated and spacious interior

• KIA RIO Engines & Transmissions

  – Two highly efficient petrol engines with 65 and 79 kW outputs

• KIA Suspension & Refinement

  –  Improved stability, smoother ride and enhanced refinement

• KIA RIO Safety & Security

  – Comprehensive active and passive safety systems

• KIA RIO Standard Equipment and Technical Specifications

  – Technical details for the complete model line-up