A Rio review

The Kia Rio has developed a strong following among buyers of B-segment hatchbacks – its reputation especially took off with the previous, third generation; which was launched in South Africa in 2012.

While traditional rivals such as the Hyundai i20, Mazda 2 and Renault Clio continue to sell well, competition in this segment is set to get stiffer as the new-generation VW Polo and Ford Fiesta are expected to land later in 2018.

So, how does the new Rio stack up? I received the 1.4 TEC SR manual (R283 495) and set off to find out.

What can I expect from the Rio?
Yet another Red Dot Design Award winner from Kia, the Rio continues the modern Kia design language set by design centres in Germany and California. Kia’s trademark “tiger-nose” grille has evolved to be thinner and wider, while U-shaped LED daytime-running lights either side emphasise the width of the car. Round back the new arrow-shaped LED taillights add a bit of flair to an otherwise tidy design.

The modern, clean design theme carries into the ergonomic interior, which features a dash dominated by the new seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Overall the interior environment is a nice place to be – if a bit darkly trimmed…

At least occupants have a good amount of space in the larger new cabin. The black-leather upholstered seats are wide and comfy, too, and it’s easy to find an ideal driving position.

Is it loaded with lots of safety features and other nice toys?
The top-spec manual version in the new Rio range, the 1.4 TEC SR comes with all the bells and whistles expected by buyers of modern-day B-segment hatches. The TEC models get auto lights and wipers, rear parking assist with camera, cruse control, integration of Apple Car Play and Android Auto, and driver and passenger side and curtain airbags.

Oh, and the SR – that’s for sun roof.

What’s it like from behind the wheel?
Perhaps the greatest improvement over the previous TEC model is in the area of ride refinement. With only a slight amount of road noise permeating the cabin and a much more compliant ride on its 17-inch wheels, the new Rio cossets its occupants with much more of a “big car” feel.

From behind the leather-wrapped wheel, you’ll also notice that it feels light on its feet, with confident levels of handling. This is all due to the car being longer and wider than its predecessor, with a stiffer bodyshell complimented by a much-revised suspension system.

Unfortunately, what isn’t revised is the engine – Kia carrying over the same 1,4-litre engine that powered the old model. Lacking any turbocharging assistance, it offers up a fair 74 kW power and 134 Nm torque. Opening the taps and rowing through the six-speed box offers a smooth power delivery; what little of it there is.

During my week with the Rio I averaged 9,7 l/100 km fuel consumption, which is higher than expected.

Should I buy one, or look around?
Overall, the Rio is not the most exciting car in the segment and the TEC model is priced at the more extreme side of the spectrum, bringing cars from the class above into the picture. But, while its predecessor never struggled to attract buyers, the Rio has evolved to be real solid B-segment hatch that offers most of the technology today’s buyers look for.

Those interested in the mechanicals will only criticise it for its older engine that is comparatively less advanced than many of the competitions’ – albeit well proven. And that probably means there’d be less of a need to call on the five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and roadside assistance (you get a four-year/60 000 km service plan, too).

CyberStoep rating: 7,5/10