When the Kia Rio hit American roads in 2000, it didn’t garner great reviews. Sure, it provided a place to get from here to there with a cheap price tag and excellent fuel economy, but it didn’t do anything to change the game. Eighteen years later, Kia brings the fourth generation of the Kia Rio to showrooms, and it looks every bit the part of a game changer. Available in both a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback, the Kia breathes new life into the subcompact segment. Here’s a look at all it has to offer in the upcoming year.
Engine Options
One of the most intriguing options of the 2018 Kia Rio is its three engine options. Ranging from super efficient to powerful, yet not pretentious, the Rio has an engine for every type of driver. The first option is a 1.2-liter, inline four-cylinder engine that delivers 83 horsepower and 90 pound-feet of torque. It won’t win any land speed records, but it’s sure to provide the fuel economy that entices buyers in the segment.
The next choice is a turbocharged 1.4-liter, diesel inline four-cylinder that adds a bit more oomph with 89 horsepower and a surprising 177 pound-feet of torque. The only deal with this engine is that Kia hasn’t yet revealed whether this option will be available in the U.S., Europe, or both.
Finally, the Kia Rio may also have a rare, turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine aimed at providing both efficiency and speed. It kicks out 99 horsepower, which is awesome despite its tiny engine displacement.
It’s not yet known which transmission will come with each engine or if you can choose the options, but a five-speed manual, six-speed manual, and four-speed automatic are all on the table.
Additional Features
You could purchase the entry-level Rio when it comes out, but you’d miss out on some of the amazing features that come with the high-end trims. Early details are scant, but it looks like there’s a number of comforts, safety, and convenience features that are sure to please. Remote keyless entry, Bluetooth wireless technology, a rear camera display, 15-inch alloy wheels, and Kia UVO eServices will all come on upper-level models. However, the addition of autonomous emergency braking is the true standout, showing Kia’s continued commitment to vehicle safety.
Smartphone Connectivity
In the past few years, Kia has put a premium on adding advanced technology features to their vehicles. The 2018 Rio is no different. This year, the Rio adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With these two systems, you can seamlessly connect your mobile device, which brings your apps and other gadgets to the car’s head unit. Not only does this give you instant access to music, navigation, and apps, but it also keeps your eyes on the road. That way, you won’t have to test out the autonomous emergency braking.
The 2018 Kia Rio is a bold statement from the Korean automaker that shows they mean nothing but business. It’s not yet known when the Rio will hit showrooms, so you’ll just have to drool for a bit longer.
Image by Kia
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.