The all-new engine and transmissions have been designed to deliver impressive fuel economy. A gasoline direct injection (GDI), 1.6-litre 4-cylinder can be matched to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. All five trim levels (LX, LX+, LX ECO, EX and EX Luxury) benefit from 138 hp and 123 lb.-ft of torque.
The automatic is enjoyable, smooth and manages engine power adequately. My choice, though, would be the 6-speed manual (standard in LX, LX+ and EX models); as with most row-it-yourself gearboxes, you can maintain more control over the engine.
The Rio LX ECO 5-door is equipped with Idle Stop and Go (ISG), which automatically switches off the engine when the car comes to a full stop and restarts when accelerating. This system was very smooth and I was completely unaware of it while driving. In addition, all trims include what Kia calls an Alternator Management System (AMS) that saves energy by disconnecting the alternator when unneeded.
Fuel economy is rated at 6.6 L/100km in the city and 4.9 on the highway with manual transmission, while the automatic's figures are 6.8/4.9 - this puts the Rio 5-door at par or better than its competition.
The new 2012 Kia Rio 5-door offers incredible value in this class. Kia may not have the brand appeal that some of the competition has, but when you feel comfortable with low car payments, the small bill at the gas pump, the available premium features and the good looks, you will enjoy driving your new car that much more.
The automatic is enjoyable, smooth and manages engine power adequately. My choice, though, would be the 6-speed manual (standard in LX, LX+ and EX models); as with most row-it-yourself gearboxes, you can maintain more control over the engine.
 |
| A gasoline direct injection (GDI), 1.6-litre 4-cylinder can be matched to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. (Photo: Kia) |
The Rio LX ECO 5-door is equipped with Idle Stop and Go (ISG), which automatically switches off the engine when the car comes to a full stop and restarts when accelerating. This system was very smooth and I was completely unaware of it while driving. In addition, all trims include what Kia calls an Alternator Management System (AMS) that saves energy by disconnecting the alternator when unneeded.
Fuel economy is rated at 6.6 L/100km in the city and 4.9 on the highway with manual transmission, while the automatic's figures are 6.8/4.9 - this puts the Rio 5-door at par or better than its competition.
The new 2012 Kia Rio 5-door offers incredible value in this class. Kia may not have the brand appeal that some of the competition has, but when you feel comfortable with low car payments, the small bill at the gas pump, the available premium features and the good looks, you will enjoy driving your new car that much more.
 |
| The new 2012 Kia Rio 5-door offers incredible value in this class. (Photo: Kia) |
Article Gallery