Vehicle Overview The Rio sedan is Kia’s entry in the competitive small-car segment. Trim levels include a bare-bones Base model, an LX and a sporty SX. The Rio competes with the Chevrolet Aveo and Toyota Yaris.
Kia’s Rio5 hatchback is covered separately in the Cars.com Research section.
New for 2010 Rio gets a minor facelift with a revised grille and front and rear bumpers, and the LX and SX also get turn-signal indicators integrated into the side mirrors. Inside, there is an optional voice-activated Bluetooth capability and a second front power outlet (replacing the cigarette lighter). All models now have a tire pressure monitoring system and red-orange interior lighting, and those with automatic transmission add an EcoMinder indicator that glows green to denote efficient driving.
Exterior The Rio features a black mesh grille and swept-back headlights.
Available 14-, 15- or 16-inch wheels
Standard auto-off headlamps
Optional heated power mirrors
Optional rear spoiler
Optional fog lamps
Interior The interior design is fairly conservative, though it’s well-put-together. SX models include chrome dashboard accents, unique sport seat fabric and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob with red stitching.
Optional air conditioning
Optional 60/40-split bench
Optional power windows and locks
Optional keyless entry
Optional steering-wheel-mounted audio controls
Opitonal USB interface for MP3 players
Optional floormats
Under the Hood The Rio Base is only available with a five-speed manual transmission.
110-horsepower, 1.6-liter inline-four-cylinder engine with 107 pounds-feet of torque
Available four-speed automatic transmission
Optional power steering
Safety Safety features include:
Standard side-impact airbags
Standard side curtain airbags
Standard child-safety locks
Optional antilock brakes with rear discs (LX and SX)
