While concept cars and sports cars are usually the ones that steal the show at events like the Paris Motor Show, sometimes it's the smaller and less powerful vehicles that deserve the extra attention. Such is the case with the fourth-generation Kia Rio, which broke cover at the French event with two first-in-class safety features.

Specifically, Kia's small hatchback will be the first car in its class to offer Autonomous Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Recognition when it arrives in showrooms. Not only that, but it will also come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. Granted, the latter are already common on larger cars, but the Rio is among the first to get both connectivity apps. Owners will also find a "floating," high-resolution touchscreen on the dashboard, smoother plastic surfaces, and a varied selection of upholstery colors. The hatchback still doesn't get real leather in its more expensive models, but this should be good news for buyers looking for an affordable sticker before comfort.

Interior and technology aside, the new Rio also benefits from a new exterior design with styling features borrowed from the company's larger vehicles. The result of a collaboration between Kia’s design centers in Germany and the U.S., the hatchback features more straight lines and smoother surfaces, which give it a sportier appearance. With the new bodywork, Kia also managed to get rid of the somewhat cheap look of the outgoing model.

Under the hood, it will get both gasoline and diesel engines, with the most important addition being the new turbocharged, 1.0-liter three-cylinder. A revised version of the previous 1.6-liter four-cylinder and the 1.4-liter diesel should also be offered. All these units are shared with the Hyundai i20.

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Why it matters

The fourth-generation Kia Rio is a significant departure from its predecessor in terms of both design and technology. The small hatchback finally received the update it deserved and all these new features will make it a better competitor for the popular Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta. Kia has made tremendous progress over the past years and this is finally visible in their smaller vehicles, starting with the new Rio.

NEW VS. OLD RIO

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Read our full review on the 2017 Kia Rio here.