A reader recently asked “what’s with all the cool Kia’s these days?” and the inquiry likely came from noticing the dramatic transformation of the entire Kia line, which began in ’09 with the introduction of the uber-popular Kia Soul, pitched by everyone’s favorite driving hamsters. The product revolution at Kia is now complete, with the launch of the all-new Kia Rio5 SX – likely one of the coolest and fun-to-drive subcompacts we’ve driven in recent memory.
All successful cars share a common element – great design. Conceived at Kia’s design studios in Irvine, Calif., the all-new 2012 Rio 5-door and its sedan sibling wear their own interpretations of Kia’s signature grille, slimmed down to connect to the slick headlamp design to provide a new twist on the Kia look while mimicking the aggressive lines found on other recently launched Kia cars, like the 2011 Optima and Sportage. It’s a hunkered-down, muscular profile.
Available in three trims – LX, EX and SX (tested) – the 2012 Rio is available with a 138-hp, 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission (LX only) or six-speed automatic.
Inside, the Rio greets drivers and passengers with a bold and modern cabin, centered on Kia’s horizontal three-cylinder instrument panel and a two-tone color scheme to emphasize a feeling of spaciousness and comfort. Even in standard trim, there is a lot of comfort and content – like six-way adjustable driver’s seat, tilt steering column, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, trip computer, electric power steering, 60/40 split folding rear seats and a cargo cover for the hatchback. Moving to the EX trim includes standard power windows with automatic up/down on the driver’s window, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and a sleek metallic finish throughout with leatherette door trim. The SX trim offers even more upscale and athletic look and feel with standard metal pedals, metal grain, a Supervision meter cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual map lights and dual lighted vanity mirrors.
In addition to offering a comfortable cabin, impressive technology features are either standard or optional, including Bluetooth wireless connectivity, UVO powered by Microsoft voice-activated infotainment system with rear camera display, AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SiriusXM Satellite Radio, auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting with MP3 players with full iPod and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel-mounted controls. SX Premium Package adds a navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic™ (replaces the UVO system), push-button start with Smart Key, leather seat trim, heated front seats and a moon roof.
We tested the Rio5 SX on city and highway roads, and found the chassis and driving dynamics to be robust and impressive. Built on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Rio utilizes independent front suspension with MacPherson struts, coil springs and a stabilizer bar, with a torsion beam axle suspension in the rear. A sport-tuned suspension on SX trims offers enhanced handling characteristics for drivers who enjoy a more spirited drive.
The Rio lines are covered by Kia’s factory warranty, a 10-year/100,000-mile limited power train warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the vehicle coverage.
Pricing for the Rio5 starts at $13,600 and up depending on options. Fuel economy ranges from 30-mpg up to 40-mpg, depending on model, driving conditions and habits. Rivals include the 2012 Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit and Chevrolet Sonic – all 5-door hatchbacks.
Kia’s 2012 lineup includes the Sorento CUV, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Optima Hybrid, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan. For more information about Kia, visit your local dealer or Kia.com.
