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)
