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 2021 Kia Rio has refreshed styling and a revised infotainment system with a larger 8-inch screen. Rio is a subcompact car offered in two bodystyles, a 4-door-sedan and a 4-door-hatchback that Kia calls a “5-Door.” Rio was redesigned for 2018. The sole powertrain choice is a 120-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder paired with a CVT automatic transmission. Available features include Kia’s UVO infotainment system and forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking.
The 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 decent power for the class and comes with a generous warranty.
| 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 sedan: $17,045 S sedan: $17,685 S hatchback: $17,985 |
| Base Engine 1.6-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 120 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 33 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 41 |
