What Is It?
2006 Kia Rio 5

What's Special About It?
Close on the heels of the updated Kia Rio, a pint-size sedan which made its second-generation debut earlier this year at the North American International Auto Show, is the Rio five-door hatchback. The Rio 5 is taller, wider and shorter than the previous-generation Rio. Measuring less than 157 inches in length, the Rio 5 is approximately 8 inches shorter than the notch-backed sedan. The increased height and width, combined with a longer wheelbase, provide the Rio 5 with a more spacious cabin than offered in the current Rio. A 60/40-split rear seat helps obtain maximum cargo-carrying versatility.

Only one engine is available in the Rio 5 — a 110-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. Two trim levels and an assortment of options, including a height-adjustable driver seat and heated front seats, help create diversity in the hatchback's lineup.

What's Edmunds' Take?
Subcompact cars have enjoyed enormous success in Europe, but still haven't caught on in the United States. With several B-cars on the near horizon, the Kia Rio 5 is well timed for a growing U.S. market that is watching the price of gas creep higher by the day. — Kelly Toepke