Forbes Describes Kia Rio EX as “Roomy, Fun, and Naturally Aspirated”
Jason Fogelson is a contributor for Forbes that is known to never sugarcoat anything related to new cars, and one who gets to test drive some of the fastest, most furious, and front-running vehicles out there. Our beloved Kia Rio just entered into its fourth generation of existence this year, and Jason as well as many other drivers can testify that it is quite a different vehicle than it was during its origins. The Rio was truly Kia's first original subcompact, making its arrival in the US during the 2000 model year. A second generation was on deck in 2005, and a third in 2011. Some brushed aside the first two versions as poster vehicles for incredibly low-cost transportation, while the third generation began to show improvements in outer design, and overall quality of construction.
Jason admitted that “even a jaded auto writer like him” could produce an appreciative nod for the fourth-generation Rio, with his major area of admiration being the exterior. One of his first full glances was next to his wife's Mazda 3 five-door, a car that he admires profusely. The two vehicles share very similar shapes and dimensions, and he had much appreciation for the athletic wheel arches. He was excited about the EX trim-level, which sported 15-inch alloy wheels, and a well-fitting coat of Urban Gray paint. With an overall stance that is a bit on the low and wider side, it is positioned a bit better to appeal to customers looking for an SUV at an entry-level pricing point.
The instrument panel on the driver's side is connected to the dash via support from a black beam below, and black dash above. This allows for a much smoother and modern look than there was on the last two models, and the center stack and center console employ the use of a separate element to connect to each other, and the 7-inch touchscreen display is prominently placed right at the top. The door panels do a great job of mirroring the two-tone dash, and the red leather seats in the EX edition add the perfect touch to the practical, yet pleasantly edgy theme. The second row is as snug a fit as you would expect in a subcompact, and the luggage compartment touts a 17.4 cubic-ft capacity, while the rear seat is up.
The 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder that provides the power source for the Rio comes with direct gasoline injection, giving it the ability to generously provide 130 hp, and 119 lb-ft of torque. Using a front-wheel-drive platform, it is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, with the capability for manual available on the S and LX models. Expert auto writer Jason has years of experience driving overpowered cars, and still had great admiration for the powertrain, and Rio's overall fun driving experience. The Rio's capable suspension consists of Independent MacPherson struts up front, and coupled torosin-beams in the rear.
Lower trim levels have front disc/rear drum setup in the lower trim levels, with the EX version consisting of disc brakes in the front and rear. Choosing the EX trim level will assure that you have the rearview camera and 7-inch touchscreen, both worth the extra spend. Economical has now become exquisite, and we hope you come see us here at Jim Butler to give the Rio a spin, and see this prepped-for-urban roads SUV yourself!
Images courtesy of KIA
Jason admitted that “even a jaded auto writer like him” could produce an appreciative nod for the fourth-generation Rio, with his major area of admiration being the exterior. One of his first full glances was next to his wife's Mazda 3 five-door, a car that he admires profusely. The two vehicles share very similar shapes and dimensions, and he had much appreciation for the athletic wheel arches. He was excited about the EX trim-level, which sported 15-inch alloy wheels, and a well-fitting coat of Urban Gray paint. With an overall stance that is a bit on the low and wider side, it is positioned a bit better to appeal to customers looking for an SUV at an entry-level pricing point.
The 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder that provides the power source for the Rio comes with direct gasoline injection, giving it the ability to generously provide 130 hp, and 119 lb-ft of torque. Using a front-wheel-drive platform, it is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, with the capability for manual available on the S and LX models. Expert auto writer Jason has years of experience driving overpowered cars, and still had great admiration for the powertrain, and Rio's overall fun driving experience. The Rio's capable suspension consists of Independent MacPherson struts up front, and coupled torosin-beams in the rear.
