Premier Automobiles Ltd showcased three variants of its new Rio at the 2012 Auto Expo in Delhi. The face-lifted vehicle gets newly styled sharper headlamps, a new and more stylish grille and a rear spoiler that gives a sporty touch to the car. The interiors also have been given a beige once over.
The Rio now has three engine options – two diesel and one petrol. The 1.2-litre gasoline powered powerplant churns out 77PS of power and delivers a claimed mileage of 15kmpl. The 1.5-litre indirect injection diesel motor delivers 65PS power and offers a claimed 16kmpl fuel efficiency. Finally, the third engine on offer is the 1.3-litre Fiat multijet diesel engine that is also found on numerous cars on sale in India. However, no power or efficiency figures have been made available yet. The 1.2 litre petrol and 1.5 litre diesel engine options will be made available to buyers this months while the the Fiat multijet engine will be available only after April 2012.
The top of the line variant of Rio will be equipped with ABS, ride on alloy wheels and sport keyless entry. The base 1.2-litre petrol Rio costs Rs. 4.7 lakh and the top end model costs Rs. 6.35 lakh, ex-showroom Pune.
“The Rio is perfect for customers who want an affordable compact SUV with car like dynamics. It is a segment creation and perfect for those who want a truly different vehicle and driving experience,” Chairman and managing director of Premier Ltd, Maitreya Doshi said.
The Premier Rio now has the upcoming Ford EcoSport and Maruti’s X Alpha as competitors
Also see – Premier Rio gets Fiat’s 1.3-litre Multijet diesel engine
