Kia Rio5 2007

By Benjamin Cyr

Judicious and available for less than 14 000 $


A small car not too shabby on the eyes, with a satisfying interior finish for this category and a more than affordable price: The second generation Kia Rio5 makes a debut in 2007. Unfortunatly, this won’t be an easy task since it clashes against the dependable Toyota Yaris, dynamic Honda Fit and the very roomy Nissan Versa.

A part from its heavy steering, the Rio5’s road handling can be fun at times. As long as you obey the speed limits, the suspension keeps the driver happy as the Rio’s handling is quite acceptable. But as soon as one decides to not obey the law, the front of the car will slide easily. Oversteer is omnipresent thanks to the poor quality tires installed on this car. Nonetheless, the Rio5 has a short turn radius and it helps the driver zoom across traffic or in narrow urban streets.

The tested model was a 5 door version. Consumers have a choice between a 5 door or a sedan version. All models come equipped with an audio system capable of playing MP3 but other standard equipment isn’t better than its rivals. The base model doesn’t offer air conditioning, electric powered windows or power door locks. ABS is only available in the EX sport model. The mid range version « EX Convenience» offers air conditioning, electric group and heating mirrors.

If one stops to look at this car, he/she will find the car has a nice design. Inside, it’s more surprising. The quality of plastics and upholstery used are quite nice for a car under 14 000$. The Rio doesn’t set the standard for sub compacts but it’s up there with the big boys.
The seats are firm and comfortable. I would prefer to see some sort of lumbar support, there just isn’t any. Les espaces de rangement sont nombreux avec une banquette arrière repliable pour offrir l’espace de chargement au besoin, à défaut d’être aussi versatile qu’une Honda Fit par exemple.

I will close this discussion by stating the 1,6 litres 4 cylinders produces a respectable 110 hp. This engine does well in urban conditions but it can be very loud under stress. Long highway drives will be impaired by the loudness of this engine. Also, the gears are a bit too long on the 5 speed manual gearbox. Plus, I felt they were a bit too harsh to my liking. Let’s just say it’s not the best gear box I tried this year.