The Kia Rio has been completely revamped for 2012 and has an even lower price tag. It's still available as a 4-door sedan, but adds a 5-door hatchback design, both of which sport a new look, a new engine and enough tech-savvy features to make others in its class jealous.
Consumers on budgets have learned that finding a new car for under $12,000 is not easy. And finding one with standard front and rear side-curtain airbags and a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty leaves only one option: The Kia Rio. The Rio's bargain-basement price doesn't come at the expense of styling or fuel economy. The handsome little four-door is quite the looker, and those willing to spend a bit more cash can equip this little entry-level econobox with such upscale features as power windows, AM/FM/CD stereo and heated outside mirrors. The Rio also makes great strides in refinement over previous models, with more precision in the gearshift, less vibration from under the hood and a higher quality feel both inside and out.
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why ads?By bb (nebraska) on Thursday, December 13, 2007
overall rating 5 of 5rating details
"I am partial to smaller cars because they handle great and cut through traffic much easier, plus the gas mileage of course. I purchased my 06 Rio used for 7k with 32k miles. For the price I am extremely happy. I really love this car after owning it for 3 months. I get over 30mpg in the city. I love the way it handles, rides and the comfort. I can’t say about the reliability yet but it does run well and I have not had any problems yet. With the 60k bumper to bumper warranty I feel pretty secure. I wouldn’t say it’s up to Toyota or Honda quality yet but it seems to be getting very close. When you can pick up a used one for almost half the price of a used Honda or Toyota I think it’s a no brainier its a great value. I wouldn’t purchase this car new because of the resale value. In a nut shell, for me, it all comes down to price value ratio. And this car is the best value for the price you can find, period."
21 people out of 21 found this review helpful
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By Jerry (WI) on Sunday, August 07, 2011
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 30,000
overall rating 4 of 5rating detailsPros: "fuel efficiency, handling, cabin room"
Cons: "noise, interior design"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8
"I bought a '09 Rio Base Sedan and still enjoy driving it. When compared to other small sedans and hatchbacks this car definitely holds par. The positives include the fuel efficiency, which can range from 30 to even 40 mpg depending on driving style and type. The handling is fairly sporty and even without power steering, the car is a joy to drive. The 110 hp and light weight really helps with acceleration and you don't feel like you are driving an underpowered economic car. The cabin is very roomy, especially compared to other compacts. The backseat has ample headroom, I have never heard of anyone complaining about hitting their heads, whereas in the ford focus I (5'11") had to duck to ride in the backseat. Legroom is also fine for kids or smaller adults, but not comfortable on long rides for taller adults. Some of the negatives include road noise and the cheap feeling interior. When driving on the highway talking on a phone (which admittedly you shouldn't do anyways) is difficult and the engine noise is quite loud. The interior is made of very hard plastic and holds grease after handling. Also, when I tried to clean the inside using a wax product, the dashboard ended up looking even worse than before. It seems like the plastic doesn't accept that type of cleaning well. Or im doing it wrong! Overall this has been a great car that has a great buy that I would recommend to anyone in the market."
12 people out of 12 found this review helpful
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By Buckeye (OHIO) on Saturday, September 12, 2009
overall rating 4 of 5rating details
"this is our second kia,we have had it for 5 years and its never brokedown or been in the shop,it has 70000 miles on it."
8 people out of 8 found this review helpful
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