Vehicle Tested
2013 Kia Rio SX Sedan (1.6L 4-cyl. 6-speed Automatic)
Driven On
3/13/2013
Ratings Summary
High feature content availability can't hide the fact that the Rio's chassis is not class-leading. It exhibits a busy, discombolulated ride and tepid dynamics, though acceleration is good. Very spacious for its class, with good forward visibility.
C
Performance
Good acceleration, though the handling and steering could be better. Enthusiasts will look elsewhere for their entry level transportation.
| Acceleration |
B
|
By the numbers the Rio is above average in its ability to accelerate. It does have abrupt initial throttle tip-in, probably to make it feel sprightlier than it is. |
| Braking |
C
|
Pedal feel is on the softer side but has a natural bite and progression. |
| Steering |
C
|
The steering is quick and somewhat precise, but too numb and too light. Feels artificial at low speeds. |
| Handling |
C
|
While the Rio is competent, there's not much for enthusiasts here. Low speed handling exhibits significant yaw delay. |
| Driveability |
C
|
The Rio's lackluster ride, handling and steering probably won't scare away buyers. Its power delivery is adequate. |
C
Comfort
Ride and refinement isn't as strong as in other cars in its class, but it's still a step up from the previous generation of entry level compact cars. The segment is a moving target, however, and the Rio finds itself one step behind here.
| Seating Comfort |
C
|
Driver seat feels overstuffed and overinflated, and there is little lateral support. It is shaped to adopt a relaxed, spread-out driving position. |
| Ride Comfort |
C
|
The Rio has a busy ride, which grows tiresome the longer you are in the car. It feels underdamped and harsh on broken or cracked pavement or seams. |
| Quietness |
C
|
Usually road noise becomes more prominent with vehicle speed, but somehow the Rio exhibits plenty of road noise at any speed. Wind noise is also prominent. |
B
Interior
Easy to use and easy to live with. The Rio gives the impression of roominess despite its dimensions. Lots of features to boot.
| Ergonomics |
B
|
Three-knob climate controls and chunky buttons are easy to use. Generally an easy-to-use cabin, though some will find the multimedia screen a bit fiddly. |
| Ingress/Egress |
B
|
Low threshold, a lightweight door and unintrusive seat make for easy getaways. Though this is a compact car, the roofline is not so low as to be in the way. |
| Space/Room |
B
|
Compact in name only, the Rio manages to feel more spacious and airy than its label suggests. |
| Visibility |
B
|
Large windshield and low cowl affords a good view forward. Small triangle windows at the base of the A-pillars do little to improve the view, but they do allow more light in. |
| Cargo/Storage |
B
|
Surprisingly large trunk and spacious backseat mean the Rio will swallow more gear than you might expect. |
B
Value
A lot of features are available, though they could push the Rio's base price to a point where you might consider other vehicles. Kia's strong warranty is as compelling as ever.
| Build Quality (vs. $) |
C
|
Appears to be well-screwed together. Hard, dark plastics cover many surfaces, but the lack of distracting brightwork is a relief. |
| Features(vs. $) |
A
|
The Rio is brimming with useful features like keyless entry and ignition, navigation, iPod hookup, heated seats and an astonishingly clear backup camera. |
| Cost |
C
|
We tested an SX model, which has a lot more features than other trim levels. Its $21,340 sticker price is at the high end of the Rio range. |
| MPG |
B
|
When equipped with the 6-speed automatic, the Rio nets 28 city and 36 highway mpg. Real world fuel economy may vary. |
| Warranty |
B
|
5 year/60,000 mile basic warranty is above average, as is the 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty. |
| Ownership |
B
|
The Rio offers no free scheduled maintenance but 5 years/60,000 miles of roadside assistance. |
C
Fun To Drive
It's not fun or especially pleasing to drive. That said, it's not a penalty box. The Rio, especially in the SX trim we tested, is more than just basic transportation.
| Driving Experience |
C
|
You'll have to derive your fun from aspects other than the Rio's primary dynamic interfaces. |
| Personality |
C
|
The Rio's looks, features and space are its strong points, not the driving experience. |
