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The current generation of the Kia Rio is doing well with the TÜV. However, it has kept one problem from its predecessor.
The fourth generation of the Kia Rio has been on the market since 2017. The first vehicles have meanwhile driven up for the main TÜV inspection. Lo and behold: Kia has learned from the mistakes of the third generation.
He doesn't have to hide
The 4,07 meter long Rio is only available as a five-door hatchback model. It appears confident and chic. Clear lines, crisp proportions and a long bonnet ensure a striking appearance. He doesn't have to hide behind competitors such as VW Polo, Ford Fiesta or Opel Corsa. The cockpit is clearly designed, the interior looks dignified, at least in the higher equipment versions. Up to five people can be seated in the Rio, but it is more realistic to occupy the fund with only two travelers. The trunk volume is okay for a small car. In the standard position, the luggage part has a capacity of 325 liters; if you fold the rear seat back, a maximum of 1.103 liters is available for loading. Thanks to the rear seat backrest, which can be folded down in two steps, a level luggage compartment is created, as a removable intermediate floor in the trunk equalizes the height difference to the passenger compartment and at the same time minimizes the height of the loading threshold to a few centimeters. In summer 2020 the little one received a facelift.
Nothing for switching lazy
Kia has four petrol and one diesel on offer for the Rio. The entry-level petrol engine, a 1,2-liter four-cylinder with 62 kW / 84 hp, like the 1,4-liter with 73 kW / 99 hp, is naturally aspirated. Both need hard shifting gear to get going. The more powerful version has a manual six-speed gearbox, the 84 hp engine has to get by with a five-speed gearbox. If you are looking for an automatic, you have to grab the 1.4. Alternatively, a four-stage automatic system can be ordered. Both engines create a top speed of more than 170 km / h (173 and 175 km / h), the sprint from 0 to 100 km / h takes 12,9 and 12,2 seconds, respectively. The average consumption of Kia is 4,8 and 5 liters. In 2019, Kia took the 1.2 out of its range.
Those who appreciate a little more liveliness can choose the one-liter three-cylinder, which is available in two expansion stages with 74 kW / 100 PS and 88 kW / 120 PS. The turbo mobilizes 172 Nm in both variants, the suction cups only come to 122 and 133 Nm. The top speed is reached at 188 and 190 km / h. Even with the three-cylinder engines, the weaker version has to be content with a five-speed switch, the 120 hp engine is factory-fitted with a manual six-speed gearbox. Both units can optionally be combined with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Kia specifies consumption values between 4,2 and 5,3 liters.
The only diesel (until 2018) is a 1,4-liter with 66 kW / 90 PS. It is always equipped with a six-speed gearbox and provides 240 Nm. Its average consumption of 3,8 liters makes it interesting for frequent drivers. On the autobahn, it manages 175 km / h.
Equipment and safety
The Rio is offered in the Kia-typical equipment lines Attract, Edition 7, Spirit, GT Line and Platinum Edition. There are also special models such as “Dream Team”. The basic version Attract comes with an on-board computer, light sensor and radio with USB connection, but you have to book an air conditioning system. Anyone who loves a sporty look can choose the “GT Line”. Among other things, this comes up with a bumper with a diffuser look, a double pipe exhaust and LED headlights. At the upper end of the comfort level, the “Platinum Edition” offers almost everything a small car driver desires, including 17-inch models, automatic air conditioning, heated seats and steering wheels, navigation systems, parking sensors and reversing cameras. The Rio can also keep up with the upscale lines when it comes to connectivity. From "Spirit", many assistants are also part of the standard scope. They are optionally available for the lower lines. Those interested in used cars have to look carefully to see which helpers are on board. In the NCAP crash test, the Rio achieved five stars in 2017.
Quality
The current Rio passed the first MOT inspection with flying colors, at least almost. Unlike the previous generation, it doesn't make any mistakes with the chassis and brakes. As before, the weak point is the lighting system. Interested parties should look carefully here. However, anyone who buys a still young used Rio will benefit from the 7-year guarantee that Kia grants on new cars and that passes to the new owner when the used car is sold.
Is it worth it?
You can't go much wrong with used Kia Rio models. You have to spend around 9.000 euros for three-year-old copies, most of which are for sale with the 84 hp engine. The turbo engines are available from around 10.000 euros.
