KIA RIO Review

Summary:

What we like: Styling, Value, Smooth ride

What we don't like: Auto transmission version slow

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KIA RIO review in detail:

Competing in the decidedly non-glamorous world of the entry-level subcompact, the Kia Rio isn't the penalty box one might first assume. The first-generation Rio had little in its favor other than a long warranty, but Kia made giant strides with the latest edition of the Rio, introduced to Australia in 2005.
These days there's a semi-European look both inside and out that works really well.

The result is much improved sales, though it really should be better still.

Engine size in the Rio is 1.6 litres, and the torque output in the important low and mid-range areas has benefitted from a number of design changes.

The engine is a nice unit that's not only pleasant in the way it works, but even has a semi-
sporty note that keen drivers will enjoy.

The designers have shortened the latest Rio's body significantly, while still retaining internal dimensions similar to that of the previous car. This has been achieved by greatly extending the wheelbases and slightly increasing its height.

The Rio's interior, especially in beige, has an airy feel typically lacking in this price bracket. The materials quality is generally above average, though a few of the plastics aren't up to class-leading Honda levels. Seat comfort is very good for most body types, though drivers over 6 feet tall may get fidgety after more than an hour behind the wheel. A fold-down armrest is standard for the driver, but we'd prefer a more traditional center console box that provides this feature for both front occupants along with handy storage space. In back, headroom is a bit tight for 6-footers, but legroom is fully adequate and the tall bench provides good thigh support.

The 1.6-liter provides decent low-end pull and the manual-transmission version offers enough thrust to merge into highway traffic with ease, although the engine gets noisy at higher rpm. Shifting the manual gearbox is enjoyable, thanks to the precise gates and smooth clutch. The automatic isn't as peppy, though its gearchanges are smooth and relatively quick.

The Kia Rio comes standard with front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and three-point belts in all seating positions. The LX and SX trims also come with adjustable rear headrests. Antilock disc brakes are optional on those higher trim levels as well. In NHTSA frontal-impact crash testing, the Rio scored four stars (out of five) for driver protection and five stars for passenger protection. In the side-impact test, the Rio earned four stars for front-occupant protection and three stars for the rear.