RIO IN PARIS
KIA’S RIO MAKES ITS DEBUT AT THE PARIS AUTO SHOW. FULL SHOW COVERAGE,
Not everything at the 2016 Paris Motor Show is just for Europeans. There were a few debuts from the biennial show that we in the Great White North will actually be able to buy and drive. Graeme Fletcher takes a look at those cars.
AUDI Q5
What is it?: Audi’s latest Q5 shares a lot with the very capable A4 — namely the Group’s MLB platform. This and a number of other weight saving strategies sees it shed 90 kg of mass. Size- wise it is about the same as the current model. But Audi says some clever packaging gains more usable space. Elsewhere, the cabin is marked by the adoption of Audi’s 12.3- inch Virtual Cockpit display and two different infotainment screens — the base car gets a seven- inch screen, while the top- line features a larger 8.3 inch screen. As before, the lot is controlled through a rotary knob and touch pad. Why does it matter?: The new Q5 has a range of engines, including a 2.0L gas engine that pushes 249 hp and some four- and six- cylinder TDIs. It is doubtful the oil- burners will come to Canada. In the works is a plug- in version with a 2.0L engine and electric motor. The better news is the fact SQ5 and RSQ5 versions will be available eventually. Think 325 hp for the SQ5 and somewhere is the 500 hp range for the RS. Fire that lot through Quattro all- wheel- drive and you have a rocket in the making! When will Canada get it?: The new Q5 will hit Canada next year. In the interim watch for a first drive on Oct. 6. Should you buy it?: I picked the current SQ5 as an Editor’s Choice. The rework to the new model only serves to add to its allure.
KIA RIO
What is it?: The Kia Rio enters its fourth- generation with a sharp new look and expanded dimensions — the wheelbase grows by 10 millimetres and now measures 2,580 mm, the length is up 15 mm and the cargo capacity has increased by 37 to 325 litres.
Why does it matter?: The Rio arrives with several engines. Leading the way is a new 1.0L turbocharged three- cylinder offered in 100 and 120 hp versions. Both twist out 127 lb.- ft. of torque at 1,500 rpm. The 1.4- litre naturally- aspir-
ated engine produces 100 hp and 97 lb.- ft. of torque. Both drive the front wheels through six- speed manual or six- speed automatic transmissions. The Europeans will also see a 1.4L diesel engine. When will Canada get it?: Early next year.
Should you buy it?: Kia has been on a tear of late, placing first in J. D. Powers Initial Quality Survey ( the first time a non- luxury brand has topped the rankings). The Kia Rio continues to build on this solid reputation.
CIVIC TYPE R PROTOTYPE
What is it?: The Honda Civic Type R Prototype was a surprise showing at the Paris Motor Show. The styling picks up on the new hatchback’s look, but pushes the stylistic and performance envelopes well beyond that of the mortal car. The look includes wider air vents, smoked LED headlights, a hood scoop and a monster rear wing. It also gets bolder fender flares, expanded side sills and 20- inch alloy wheels wearing performance rubber. The final touch is the triple, mid- mounted, exhaust outlet.
Why does it matter?: The Type R really does mean business. Sitting across from the Prototype was the Type R based on the outgoing car. Looking at its specs saw a 2.0L engine turbocharged four- cylinder that pushes 306 hp and 295 lb.- ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm through a six- speed manual gearbox and the front wheels. To ensure it has traction and stopping power it arrives with an adaptive suspension, mechanical limited- slip differential and oversized Brembo brakes.
When will Canada get it? The Civic Type R has been confirmed for Canada, but when is not known at this point. Hopefully it arrives with a more realistic price — the production version on display in Paris carried a sticker of 39,510 pounds, or roughly $ 52,700!
Should you buy it? What is not to love about a truly hot- hatch that brings a run to 100 km/ h in 5.7 seconds and has a top “track” speed of 270 km/ h? Bring it in for around $ 45,000 and it would compete nicely with the Focus RS and Golf R in spite of its lack of all-wheeldrive.