Kia Hangs 10 With Surf-Themed Rio: SEMA Show Preview

Amy Tokic
by Amy Tokic

Kia plans on making a splash this year at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show with its surf/skate-themed 2012 Rio hatchback.

This gnarly Rio is the result of a partnership between Kia and Antenna Magazine, and is touted as being a “one-of-a-kind retro ride aimed at totally radical surfing enthusiasts.” To start off, Kia took a stock five-door 2012 Rio and went to town on it, giving it a “sunset-metallic golden-brown” coat and a custom front splitter made from wood (taking its inspiration from vintage surfboards). But it doesn’t stop there – this Rio comes outfitted with an extreme exhaust system, gold-finished aluminum wheels and a new set of side skirts. Inside, this Rio boasts shelves for storage, a retro record player and a retro-style video game system.

Under the hood, you won’t find any surprises. It’s powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, just like any other standard Rio.

Along with its surf-inspired Rio, Kia also has five other sport-themed concepts on display that it has developed with high-profile partners ( including a Michelle Wie themed Soul).

See AutoGuide’s complete 2011 SEMA Show Preview here and look for live coverage starting November 1st.

Read AutoGuide’s 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door review here

Amy Tokic
Amy Tokic

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