Kia's wagon challenges established players

Korean carmaker Kia is introducing two new models to the New Zealand market.

The first to arrive is the Mentor wagon, a logical extension to the sedan and liftback. Soon after comes the sedan and hatchback Rio.

The Mentor costs $27,995 and has been positioned by Kia to bridge the gap between the sedan and mini people-mover.

It is powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine - which Kia says is "fuel friendly"- and seats five adults in the standard RS model and six to seven in the better appointed LS.

Standard equipment includes driver's side airbag and air conditioning.

The Rio is Kia's entry into the small car segment. Its styling has lifted the look of traditional Korean design and both the hatchback and sedan models are said to offer comfort and room for occupants.

The Rio can strut its stuff in specification too. A Kenwood CD is standard, as is a driver's side airbag and air-conditioning.

The 1.5-litre engine in the Rio delivers 73kW and is mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.

The LS and RS Mentor has just gone on sale. The rio won't be available for another six weeks or so.

The Mentor is powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine