Stylo Rio

What we like:

The modern chic looks

great build quality

pokey engine

What we dislike:

4 speed gearbox is a bit outdated these days

I kept saying hot hatch didn’t I? Its 1.4 litre Gamma petrol engine produces 105 bhp and 135 Nm of torque at 6,300 rpm and 4,200 rpm respectively, but don’t let those numbers fool you. The car is quite light, just slightly over 1,000 kg, which makes it very easy to get off the line. It actually feels sprightlier when taking off than when you’re trying to overtake at speed, due to the lack of gearbox ratios.

The slushbox only has four gears, which is a bit outdated considering the plethora of 6 speeders in the market these days. The real problem with that gearbox however, is the fact that you don’t get a gear that can suitably allow you to zip around slower cars like you would in a hot hatch. A shame really, considering how well the engine pulls away from the lights in first gear.

Other than that, the suspension is a little on the firm side, and can be slightly jarring if you go over bumps or improperly paved roads at speed. The plus side though, is that the car rides like a true hot hatch. There’s no body roll, and the steering is quick and well weighted. No paddle shifters are provided, but then I doubt there’s really a need for it anyway.

Overall I think it’s a pretty good car if you’re looking for something that handles well, looks great and feels solidly built. It’s not going to outdo a Golf GTI anytime soon (believe me I tried), but it’ll pander to your need for style and quality as a young urbanite doing his or her thing in the heart of the bustling city.

Credits: Story and Photos by Alvan Sio