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Kia Rio SLi 2013 Review

EXPERT RATING
7
Kia's smallest and cheapest hatch. But don't be fooled because the Rio is a substantial and some might say desirable little car these days.

What is it?

Kia's smallest and cheapest hatch. But don't be fooled because the Rio is a substantial and some might say desirable little car these days, with a choice of a 1.4 or 1.6 direct injection engine.

How much?

Prices start from $15,290 for the three-door manual S rising to $18,990 for the five-door mid spec Si and $21,990 for the top of the line five-door SLi auto.

What are competitors?

There's quite a few but Kia trounces most in terms of standard features. They include Mazda2, Ford Fiesta, Holden Barina, Hyundai's i20/Accent and the Toyota Yaris.

What's under the bonnet?

An old school 1.4-litre multipoint injected petro four with 79kW/135Nm or a more sophisticated 1.6-litre direct injection unit with a significant 103kW/167Nm.

A 6-speed manual is standard, with optional 4 and 6 speed autos for the 1.4 and 1.6 models respectively (the 6 is obviously more desirable).

How does it go?

It's the same 1.6-litre GDI engine as that in the Hyundai Veloster and offers satisfying performance, but still not quite enought to set the world on fire.

Is it economical?

The 1.6 auto is rated at 6.1 litres/100km. It takes standard unleaded and we were getting 7.5 after about 250km.

Is it green?

Yep. Amazingly gets a five-star rating from the Government's Green Vehicle Guide the same as a hybrid Toyota Prius.

Is it safe?

With a full complement of safety systems including six airbags and electronic stability control it scores a full five stars for safety from ANCAP.

Is it comfortable?

Although classed as a small hatch the Rio is in fact quite roomy inside, more so than say the Fiesta for instance with comfortable, good-sized seats.

What's it like to drive?

Looks terrific and has a big car feel, with substantial performance under foot. But it always feels as though there's something holding it back.

Is it value for money?

All models come with Bluetooth connectivity and CD audio with AUX, iPod and USB connections, along with steering wheel audio controls.

But to get the 1.6 you need to take at least the Si which also gets you cruise control. Daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, projection front headlamps, static cornering lamps, auto light control and an enhanced brake package in the range topping SLi.

Would we buy one?

Well, maybe not because it's not our demographic, but the daughter likes the look and feel and is pretty keen on getting into one.

Kia Rio SLi auto
Price: from $21,990
Warranty: 5 years
Engine: 1.6-litre 4-cylinder, 103kW/167Nm
Transmission: 6-speed auto, FWD
Thirst: 6.1L/100Km, CO2 145g/km

Pricing guides

$11,420
Based on 65 cars listed for sale in the last 6 months
Lowest Price
$4,999
Highest Price
$14,990

Range and Specs

VehicleSpecsPrice*
S 1.4L, —, 6 SP MAN $4,730 – 6,930 2013 Kia Rio 2013 S Pricing and Specs
Si 1.6L, —, 6 SP AUTO $6,600 – 9,240 2013 Kia Rio 2013 Si Pricing and Specs
Si 1.6L, —, 6 SP MAN $5,720 – 8,030 2013 Kia Rio 2013 Si Pricing and Specs
SLi 1.6L, —, 6 SP AUTO $6,600 – 9,350 2013 Kia Rio 2013 SLi Pricing and Specs
EXPERT RATING
7
Chris Riley
Contributing Journalist

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Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication.  Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.