2018 Kia Rio

Pros: Pleasant ride and engaging handling; decent power for a subcompact car; availability of forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking

Cons: Cramped rear-seat space; rear seatbacks don’t fold completely flat in hatchback model; so-so rear visibility

CG Says: The Kia Rio is redesigned for 2018, gaining some new technology features and an available forward collision warning system with autonomous emergency braking. The new Rio is fractionally longer and wider than its predecessor and has more interior and cargo room. As before, 4-door-sedan and 4-door-hatchback body styles are offered (Kia calls the hatchback a “5-Door”). The trim levels on both ascend through LX, S, and EX models. The sole engine choice is a 130-horsepower 1.6-liter 4-cylinder paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission; a 6-speed manual is also available, but only on the entry-level LX model. The line-topping EX comes standard with Kia’s UVO infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, 15-inch alloy wheels, and forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking (a rare feature in the subcompact-car class). The redesigned Kia Rio is one of the best cars in the subcompact-car segment; it delivers impressive levels of comfort and refinement at attractive prices. It also has good power for the class and comes with a generous warranty.