2009 Kia Rio Review
The 2009 Kia Rio remains largely unchanged from the 2008 model year and is offered in three trim levels, as well as in hatchback form, under the name Rio5. The Kia Rio is a full size sedan, designed to compete with vehicles such as the Hyundai Accent and the Scion xD.
The Rio comes in four flavors, the base model, LX trim and SX trim, as well as the hatchback version of the vehicle. All trims levels make use of the same engine and transmission pairing, using a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 110 hp and a 5-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic transmission is available on all trim levels except the base model.
The Rio is built on the Hyundai Accent platform and shares many of the same features, though the exterior appearance is markedly different. In addition, the Rio features several upgraded options, including ABS and a digital audio input jack for MP3 players. Satellite radio is also now available on the Rio.
2009 Kia Rio Performance
The Kia Rio offers peppy pickup from a stop, though the manual is superior to the automatic transmission. The automatic transmission, while smooth, is slow to accelerate. In addition, the Rio features sufficient power for getting around town, but lacks the oomph needed to make it livable on the highway. Drivers on the highway will find themselves relegated to the right lane and passing will be problematic.
The Rio does get excellent fuel economy. The sedan averages 28 mpg, while the hatchback is able to average around 30 mpg. Of course, the manual transmission is better for fuel consumption than the automatic transmission.
One of the best features of the 2009 Kia Rio is the solid construction. This gives it a feel of stability on the road and improves the ride quality over other options on the market. However, large obstructions (potholes and bumps) on the road do make their presence known, while the vehicle also bounces on rough pavement.
The steering on the Rio is admirably quick and efficient, enabling the car to handle quite well in tight urban environments. Body lean during turning is moderate, though nosedive can be pronounced. The braking is firm and responsive, as well, thanks to the ABS system.
Finally, the Rio offers a rather noisy ride. The engine noise is considerable at all RPM levels, though is most pronounced at highway speeds. Wind noise is moderate but present and road noise is constant, especially over rough or uneven pavement.
2009 Kia Rio Interior
The interior of the Rio is marked by hard plastic surfaces, with almost no padding or cloth other than the seats. However, the plastic is of high quality and does not feel cheap, giving the interior a touch of style that seems out of place considering the price of the car.
All controls are clear, large and easily readable. Each part of the central gauge cluster is angled for optimum viewing by the driver, while the HVAC and audio controls are easily reached, enabling adjustments without forcing the driver to take their eyes off the road for undue amounts of time.
The front seats offer ample headroom and legroom, though they are not overly spacious. The front seats are also firm, providing ample lumbar and thigh support for long distance driving. Visibility from the front seats is not compromised as it is on other models.
Rear seating is much more cramped than the front, though smaller adults will find it comfortable enough. However, due to the size of the seating area, children will be much more comfortable in the rear than will adults.
Cargo room is not at a premium, though it is not the best in the class. The rear seats fold for additional storage. However, the trunk access is small and the hinges do impinge on functionality.
2009 Kia Rio Safety Features
The 2009 Kia Rio features dual front airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, side curtain airbags, interior trunk release and front side airbags. Automatic headlights and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are the only upgraded safety features available on higher trim levels.
Summary
For the price, the Kia Rio is hard to beat. While the hatchback gets better fuel economy, both the sedan and hatchback are excellent choices for daily drivers. Neither vehicle wins any speed records on the highway, but are more than sufficient for driving around town or running errands. Both veteran drivers needing a daily driver and those seeking a reliable car for the new driver will appreciate what the Rio brings to the table.