2016 Kia Rio 5-door hatchback

Pros: Decent power for a subcompact car; surprisingly pleasant in highway driving; impressive front-seat passenger space for the class

Cons: Disappointing fuel economy for the class; cramped rear-seat space; rear seatbacks don’t fold completely flat in hatchback model

CG Says: For 2016, Kia Rio gets revised exterior and interior styling and the UVO infotainment system has been upgraded. All Rio hatchbacks now have a standard 6-speed automatic transmission. The Rio represents itself well in a class that’s filled with great choices. Where some of the competition shines in a particular area and trails in another, the Rio doesn’t really stand out so much as it does a good job at most things. Good power for the class, a comfortable ride, fine practicality, and handsome looks inside and out are some of the qualities of this well-rounded package. Our biggest disappointment is the so-so fuel economy we’ve seen in our testing.

The Facts
Class Subcompact Car
Body Style(s) 4-door sedan, 4-door hatchback
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Kia
Nation of Manufacture South Korea
Base Prices LX hatchback: $15,495
LX sedan: $14,165
EX hatchback: $17,905
EX sedan: $17,755
SX hatchback: $20,905
SX sedan: $20,755

Base Engine
1.6-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
138
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
27
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
37-38

9953_2016_Rio_SX
2016 Kia Rio sedan
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