Premier Automobiles is back! the automaker known for its taxi’s has launched an entry level SUV called ‘Rio’. With the launch of Rio, premier has reinvented the segment called compact SUV segment after the dearth of Maruti Gypsy. Premier’s Rio is powered by Puegeot TUD5 1.5L diesel engine developing 65bhpof peak power and 140Nm of of peak torque. The engine is mated with a 5 speed manual transmission. The rear wheel drive Rio is the India’s first sub 4m SUV and is eligible for small car tax concession. The dimensions of the Rio are 3.9*1.5*1.6(length*width*height) meters. Rio uses Macpherson struts suspension at the front and coil spring at the rear.
Premier developed the Rio in association with chinese automaker Zoyte and will be retailed across India. Rio will be available in five colours -red, white, silver, black and blue. Rio will be available in three variants – EX,DX and LX. Rio is priced between Rs 5.25 lakhs to Rs 5.95 lakhs (ex-showroom, Pune).