Kia->ke41 geared up for the 2011 SEMA Auto Show->ke216 with an armada of presentations starting with this fascinating surf and skate-themed Rio hatchback. The car was built in cooperation with Antenna Magazine and was designed to be a “one-of-a-kind retro ride aimed at totally radical surfing enthusiasts.”
The exterior of the Rio 5-door was treated to a sunset-metallic golden-brown paint and a custom body kit that includes a front splitter made of wood that matches the Thule roof rack and hand-made wood surfboard mounted on top. The car has also been lowered with a modified suspension for better handling while a new set of 17" three-piece gold wheels finish off the exterior details.
Inside, the Antenna Rio 5-door comes with custom front and rear seats and dash and door panels that are dressed in brown and beige plaid waterproof bathing suit fabric. There's also a wood grain center console and a headliner upholstered in dark brown suede with a towel holder built in that rounds out the car's themed retro-surf look. Meanwhile, the rear center console was turned into a shelf that can hold beach accessories, including sun tan lotion, surfboard wax, and bottled water. Then, there's the rear hatch, which has been modified to hold a retro gaming console that plays 80's-style arcade games, a retro-looking record player to play music, mood lighting, and shelves to hold sandals and clothing.
Needless to say, this particular Rio is more about its looks than it is about its performance capabilities. Don't expect it to burn some rubber on the road, but when it comes to the perfect chill-out ride, Antenna Magazine's Kia Rio "Retro Surf" is a retro hot spot on wheels.
Updated 11/09/2011: Check the picture gallery to see new images of the Rio 5-Door "Retro Surf" by Antenna Magazine from its official debut at the SEMA Show.
2012 Kia Rio 5-Door "Retro Surf" by Antenna Magazine
- Make: Array
- Model: 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door "Retro Surf" by Antenna Magazine
- Engine/Motor: four-cylinder engine
- [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
.