Kia Rio

The Rio is one of the better subcompact cars, but it's still basic transportation. It is a loud car, with a stiff ride and leisurely acceleration from its 1.6-liter engine. We got 33 mpg overall in our tests. That's good, but many more-substantial compact cars also achieve that mileage. The Rio's ride makes passengers feel every bump, and the car moves in choppy motions over uneven roads. We found the Rio has safe, competent handling. The interior is basic, the front seats are short on support, and the rear seat is tight, but the easy to use controls are a high point. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility only comes on the S trim, which is also the only trim where the advanced safety features are available. Because the S trim is close to the price of a compact car, it's another reason not to buy the Rio.

With its all-new platform, the fourth-generation Rio sedan and hatchback sit lower, wider, and slightly longer than before. The changes bring increased passenger space for both the front and rear seats. Cabin technology makes a step forward, with the top-level EX trim benefiting from a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system, along with voice recognition, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine essentially carries over, though it sees horsepower decrease by 8 notches in the interest of fuel economy--a notable shortcoming with the last-tested Rio. Transmissions choices remain of a six-speed manual or automatic. A reworked suspension will hopefully address the stiff feel found on the previous model. Automatic emergency braking for city/urban speed will now be available.

The 2012 redesign was a leap forward, making the Rio feel solid compared with some other subcompacts, bringing more power and space and better handling, along with a six-speed automatic transmission for better gas mileage. The typical ride, noise and space limitations -- expected from a subcompact car -- count against it. However, benefits include nimble handling, a smooth transmission, simple controls, and plenty of equipment for the price. Antilock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control are standard. Higher trim models offer unexpected amenities such as heated seats and a rear-view camera.

The 2006 redesign makes the Rio a reasonable alternative to larger compacts. The ride is relatively comfortable and quiet, which makes this iteration of the Rio pleasant to drive. Most drivers found a comfortable seating position with plenty of room, though some found the tilt-only steering wheel was positioned too close ' yes -- for comfort. Controls are simple to use. Interior storage is modest. The sedan can hold more luggage than the hatchback with the rear seats up, but both have 60/40-split seats that fold to expand cargo capacity. Still though, the hatchback offers added cargo flexibility. Fuel economy is very good and handling is secure -- though not sporty. Standard curtain airbags are a plus.

The Rio has come a long way from its cheap roots. This corporate cousin to the Hyundai Accent used to epitomize the stiff-riding, noisy subcompact sedan. For 2001, the interior is put together well, the car is easy to park, and the Rio provides a tolerable ride. Handling is secure but not very agile. Still though, some vestiges of past transgressions remain, the cabin is noisy and cramped, it's not very quick, and braking is subpar. Antilock brakes (ABS) were offered starting with the 2005 model year.