2018 Kia Rio
Redesigned for 2018, the Kia Rio subcompact sedan and hatchback show numerous improvements over the outgoing model. All-new and beginning its fourth generation, the 2018 Rio is slightly lower and wider than before. The 2018 Rio comes with a new 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque, slightly less than previously, but improved drivability is promised. As before, Rio is front-wheel drive.
Autonomous emergency braking is available. UVO3 infotainment has been upgraded with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability are available.
The four-door sedans and five-door hatchbacks each come in LX, S, or EX trim level. Aside from selecting the desired trim and body color, buyers have little choice, since no options are offered.
Hatchbacks benefit most from the new look for 2018, but they're handily outsold by sedans. The new sedan's proportions appear less frumpy.
EX trim level comes not only with emergency braking, but all-disc brakes (instead of rear drums) and better-quality seats.
Otherwise, Kia hasn't given its entry-level duo much in the way of up-to-date safety equipment. Despite the fact that rearview cameras will soon be mandatory, it's standard only on S and EX models. Blind-spot monitoring isn't offered at all, despite the Rio's obtrusively thick rear pillars (especially on hatchbacks).
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The 2018 Rio comes with a new 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque, slightly less than previously, but improved drivability is promised. As before, Rio is front-wheel drive.
Autonomous emergency braking is available. UVO3 infotainment has been upgraded with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability are available.
The four-door sedans and five-door hatchbacks each come in LX, S, or EX trim level. Aside from selecting the desired trim and body color, buyers have little choice, since no options are offered.
Hatchbacks benefit most from the new look for 2018, but they're handily outsold by sedans. The new sedan's proportions appear less frumpy.
EX trim level comes not only with emergency braking, but all-disc brakes (instead of rear drums) and better-quality seats.
Otherwise, Kia hasn't given its entry-level duo much in the way of up-to-date safety equipment. Despite the fact that rearview cameras will soon be mandatory, it's standard only on S and EX models. Blind-spot monitoring isn't offered at all, despite the Rio's obtrusively thick rear pillars (especially on hatchbacks).
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| Engine | 1.6L I-4 |
| MPG | Up to 29 city / 37 highway |
| Seating | 5 Passengers |
| Transmission | 6-spd auto w/OD, 6-spd man w/OD |
| Power | 130 @ 6300 rpm |
| Drivetrain | front-wheel |
| Curb Weight | 2,648 - 2,714 lbs |
