After dipping its toes in the racing pool with a Kia Forte last year, the automaker has decided to go at it again; this time, with a Kia Rio5 variant. The new racer was released earlier this month at the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. But the new five-door sub-compact isn't inherently built for racing. In collaboration with Kinetic Motorsports, Kia has provided a B-Spec kit that converts the regular Rio into a racer for a mere $14,000.

Included with the kit is everything needed to hit the racetrack. Here are some of the features:

-          Light weight wheels and spec-series tires
-          Oil sump pan expansion kit
-          Roll cage
-          Quick-release steering wheel
-          Racing seat
-          Race harness
-          Shocks

For those who aren't quite ambitious enough to transform the model themselves, Kia completely understands. Rio5 B-Spec owners can choose to ship it to Buford, GA where workers at the Kinetic Motorsports facility will convert the vehicle for you. Starting in 2012, the new Kia racecar will be eligible to compete in such events as World Challenge, the Sports Car Club of America, GRAND-AM, and the National Auto Sport Association.

Michael Sprague of Kia Motors America comments on the comprehensive package that the B-Spec Rio provides. "We have a unique opportunity to introduce Kia to a new and passionate racing community by providing an affordable and great-looking race car that delivers best-in-class horsepower in the rapidly expanding B-segment."¹

Team Kia of El Cajon knows not everyone is dying to get their hands on a new race car; however, we think you'll agree with us in saying that Kia is definitely taking some exciting steps forward. For other thrilling rides, be sure to check out our complete new Kia lineup. If anything sparks you're interest, feel free to contact Team Kia of El Cajon. We'd love to have you in for a test drive at 541 North Johnson Ave El Cajon, CA 92020.

 

Source: ¹ http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle/Kia/259615/