The Kia Rio has to be one of the best subcompact cars ever produced. The renowned car has been in the scene since it rolled out of the assembly for the first time in 1998. Throughout its time, the Kia has sold the Rio as a Sedan, hatchback, and a wagon model. Compared to its rivals, the Kia has made quite an impact in the industry. It has also evolved from offering inline-four gasoline and diesel engine powertrains, as well as front-wheel-drive systems.
While we say goodbye to the famous Toyota Yaris, Kia has released a new Rio line-up, alongside its sibling - the most underrated Kia model - the Picanto. The 2021 Kia Rio is currently sold as a sedan and hatchback model, so you can pick the one that suits your taste.
Kia has updated the Rio couple with a fresh infotainment system and has revamped exterior styling with a futuristic front and back end. On the other hand, its subcompact design does diminish the backseat passenger space and cargo hold – something that we easily forgive when we consider its powertrains, technology features, and a lot more counterparts. For more interior space, you’ll find the new Kia Telluride SX Variant crossover model much more satisfying.
The 2021 Kia Sedan and Hatchback models arrived on the market in the last quarter of 2020 and are now available at a starting price of $17,045.
The 2021 Kia Rio Sedan and Hatchback models boast sporty exterior styling, refined ride quality, and excellent handling no matter the season. The couple offers multiple powertrains and checks all our performance boxes. Here are the coolest features of the best compact car of 2021.
Its Interior Combines Comfort And Style
The Kia Rio has a simple interior that has so many visually appealing technology upgrades, giving it a more stylish ambiance. The most attractive feature in Rio is the dashboard, which is now housing a new 8.0-inch widescreen and a 4.2-inch digital display in the cockpit.
What’s more, you now get to customize your Rio’s Interior with a fresh blue color pack, which gives the cabin more Pizazz. For an extra zing, the color customization includes contrast stitching on the dashboard, seat bolsters, and armrests. However, the Rio still falls short on legroom and headroom in the back seat and makes this up with comfort in the front seats. The driver and front seats on the base and GT Line models come with height adjustability to keep you comfy, especially on long trips.
New Model Year, Additional Safety Features: The ADAS Safety technologies
The 2021 Kia Rio comes with advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), which includes safety features like vehicle and newly introduced cyclist recognition Blind Collision Warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assistance, Driver Attention Warning, and a lane-keeping assistance system.
For additional safety and driver assistance, the ADAS also offers an Intelligent Speed Limit Warning, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assistance, a lane-keeping assistance system, and smart cruise control – all in Kia’s available FCA system.
The Kia Rio Has An Athletic Exterior Design
Nothing shines brighter than Rio’s fresh exterior. As mentioned earlier, both trims have received a makeover to their front and rear end. Its updated design oozes power and influence, which teases the Fiat hatchback and other rivals.
In terms of the changes, the Rio now has a narrower grille with the same tiger-nose appearance that runs in its DNA. Aside from the grille, the front end has a lower bumper, new fog lamps, and full LED headlights for a more bold appearance.
The 2021 Kia Rio is now available in two additional exterior colors: Perennial Grey and Sporty Blue (the one in the picture above). We like the blue color because it has a certain pop to it. With the two colors introduced, the total number of color options is now nine. The new 16-inch alloy wheels give the sporty Rio a sportier finish.
The 2021 Kia Rio Has A UVO Connectivity System
The Kia Rio comes with a new satellite navigation system called the 'Phase II' UVO Connect, which basically enhances vehicle connectivity and control. This telematics system gives you access to services, such as weather forecasts, live traffic information, fuel prices, vehicle location details, and more, all with the UVO mobile app, which is compatible with Apple and Android smartphones.
The Kia Rio Has An 120 HP Inline-4 Engine And Delivers An Unsullied Performance
The 2021 Rio is propelled by a 16-valve inline-4 engine. The port fuel injection powertrain delivers a maximum output of 120 hp at 6,300 rpm and 112 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm, which is impressive for a subcompact car. This engine pairs with a continuously variable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The Kia Rio has a top speed of 120 mph and can go from zero to 60 in about eight seconds.
Performance-wise, the Kia Rio is a fun car to drive. The engine does struggle a bit in some cases, particularly when climbing a hill. But on the bright side, you’ll enjoy a quick response from the drivetrain and steering wheel. Plus, it saves lots of gas. Whether you decide to pick the sedan or hatchback, the Kia Rio is an ideal city car to add to your garage.