Most folks would agree that econo-car sedans, while having their fuel-sipping virtues, generally come up short in the three P's — power, presentation and perks. Kia, with its all-new Rio, seems bent on addressing that trio of segment sins.
After a week with a 2012 Rio four-door — it's also available as a hatchback — we found ourselves humming a Meatloaf tune: "Two Out Of Three Ain't Bad."
Power is just routine, although Rio, which reaches 60 mph in a blink under 10 seconds, is certainly class-competitive, but consider the class. On the road, the little guy generates a lot of sound and fury when its 1.6-liter, 138-hp I-4 is provoked, but the bark is worse than the bite.
On the other hand, that techy little direct-injection four, available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, is EPA rated at 30 city/40 hwy, regardless of transmission — lofty figures, indeed. (Optional on the 2013 edition, we should note, is an ECO mode that enables the engine to shut down during stops, raising the EPA city rating to 31.)
We forgave Rio for relaxed motivation after our car, whose power was managed by the automatic, returned 33 mpg bummin' just over 100 miles around town. Besides, the car, which boasts good throttle response, feels peppy enough in stop-and-go traffic.
In addition, the suspension feels good, braking is confident and steering is responsive. This is a pleasant car to drive.
Regarding presentation and perks, Rio outclasses the class.
Let's start with presentation. This new gas-sipper belies the segment's "econo-box" label with fluid lines and daring angles.
Its robotic-grimace grille looks great, as does a bold profile that shows a sharply rising beltline atop a deeply scalloped flank. In back, horizontal taillights and an integrated trailing-edge spoiler give the car a happy, I'm-ahead-of-you look.
A perusal of Rio's standard and available equipment leads us to believe this little social climber does not fully appreciate its econo-car station in life.
Available in LX, EX and SX trim, Rio's no-extra-charge goodies include a satellite-radio head unit with CD audio, USB input and wheel-mounted audio controls, air, trip computer, height adjustable driver's seat, four-corner disc brakes and, of course, six air bags and traction and stability control.
Opt for the EX and you add, among other things, cruise, Bluetooth, keyless entry and power windows, locks and mirrors. SX boasts everything standard, save navigation, keyless start, leather and heated front seats, all of which are available.
Our EX automatic included a $1,000 Convenience Pkg that brought along, among other things, fog lamps, alloy wheels, auto headlights and a hands-free communication and entertainment system with a back-up camera — all in a car that bottom-lined at just $18,145.
Interior room is fine up front and, after you duck under the C-pillar getting in, surprisingly accommodating in back.
All in all, this is a very nice compact — affordable, and pleasant as a daily driver.
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