2012 Kia Rio Photo

2012 Kia Rio - Expert Reviews

 

Expert Reviews from Around the Web

We have scoured the web for expert reviews of this car and found the best ones for you to read. Found 8 reviews. This list is displayed in ranked order based the reviews we think are the best.
RankingDetails
#1
2011 kia rio Professional Edmunds Review
Source: Edmunds

...The automatic is rated at 27/36/30 mpg. Safety: The 2011 Kia Rio comes standard with side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Antilock brakes are standard on the Rio LX and SX models. Stability control isn't offered. The Kia Rio has not been rated using the government's new, more strenuous 2011 crash testing procedures. Its 2010 ratings (which aren't comparable to 2011 tests) resulted in four stars (out of a possible five) for driver protection and five stars for passenger protection in frontal impacts. For side impacts, the Rio earned four stars for front-seat occupants and...

#2
2012 Kia Rio5 Professional Cars.com Review
Source: Cars.com

...LX models have a standard height-adjustable driver's seat and a CD stereo with auxiliary and USB inputs. The midlevel EX has standard power windows with an automatic up/down feature for the driver, Bluetooth connectivity and a 60/40-split folding backseat. SX models add metal pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, illuminated vanity mirrors, a trip computer, cruise control, and Kia's Uvo communication and entertainment system that incorporates a backup camera. SX models can have the optional Premium Package, which includes a navigation system, push-button start, heated front...

#3
CarGurus' Review for 2011 kia rio
Source: CarGurus

...While the 2011 Kia Rio doesn’t offer much, what it does bring to the table shows up with class and quality for the most part.
The engine is a striking exception here, and while it performs adequately, it does so with a lack of refinement that severely impacts enjoyment.
That said, the overall package is still a great deal for the cost, and the Rio will serve as a more than competent urban creeper. (Also, this is the last year for the Rio, so collectors take note.)...

#4
2011 Kia Rio Professional Cars.com Review
Source: Cars.com

...SX models include metal-finish dashboard accents, unique sport seat fabric and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob with red stitching. Interior features include: Optional air conditioning Optional 60/40-split bench seat Optional power windows and locks Optional keyless entry Optional steering-wheel-mounted audio controls Optional USB interface for MP3 players Optional floormats Under the Hood The base Rio is only available with a five-speed manual transmission. 110-horsepower, 1.6-liter inline-four-cylinder engine with 107 pounds-feet of torque Available four-speed automatic...

#5
2012 Kia Rio Overview
Source: CarGurus

...dual exhaust outlets, sports suspension calibration, 17-inch tires on alloy wheels, larger front brakes, projector headlamps, LED tail and front running lights, fog lamps, painted center dash, alloy pedal covers and UVO entertainment with rear camera. There is even a premium package available that adds a moonroof, UVO navigation, leather seats, heated front seats, pushbutton start/smart key and LED map lights.Some of the other changes for 2012 include a 2.5-inch longer wheelbase and transmission choices that include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic, which replace the 5-speed manual...

#6
2012 kia rio Professional Edmunds Review
Source: Edmunds

...Interior Design and Special Features: The Rio's cabin boasts very good build and materials quality. Although there is a lot of hard plastic trim, it is nicely grained and doesn't scream economy car. Indeed, in the upper trims, features such as a soft-touch dash top, sliding center armrest and tasteful metallic accents give the impression that the Rio is a cut above what you'd expect in this class. The climate and audio controls are easy to use, as is the optional navigation system. The Uvo voice-activated telematics system is another nice bonus, although we've found it isn't quite as...

#7
2012 Kia Rio Professional Cars.com Review
Source: Cars.com

...LX models have a standard height-adjustable driver's seat and a CD stereo with auxiliary and USB inputs. The midlevel EX has standard power windows with an automatic up/down feature for the driver, Bluetooth connectivity and a 60/40-split folding backseat. SX models add metal pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, illuminated vanity mirrors, a trip computer, cruise control, and Kia's Uvo communication and entertainment system that incorporates a backup camera. SX models can have the optional Premium Package, which includes a navigation system, push-button start, heated front...

#8
2011 Kia Rio5 Professional Cars.com Review
Source: Cars.com

...The Rio5 SX has metal-finished dashboard accents and red stitching on the steering wheel, gearshift knob and door panels. A USB input is standard. Interior features include: Available cloth or sports-cloth upholstery Standard air conditioning Standard Sirius Satellite Radio Optional power windows and locks Optional keyless entry Optional steering-wheel-mounted controls Optional leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift and metal-finished pedals Under the Hood Mechanical features include: 110-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 107 pounds-feet of torque Standard five-speed...

Kia Rio Related News
 
Kia Rio Surf by Antenna at 2011 SEMA show

2012 Kia Rio Retro Surf, Forte Hockey By Antenna: 2011 SEMA Live Photos

Kia is hitting SEMA as hard as ever this year with a new crop of cars to work with, including the stylish little five-door Rio hatchback. These two concepts, the Hockey and... November 1, 2011 by 


 
2012 Kia Rio B-Spec race car

Kia Rio B-Spec Race Car To Debut At 2011 SEMA

If you haven't heard about it yet, there's a new racing spec making the rounds of the small-car world: B-Spec. Build to cross series boundaries and make racing a near-stock... October 11, 2011 by  1


 
2012 Kia Rio Sedan

2012 Kia Rio: Stop/Start For One Of America's Cheapest Cars

Stop-start technology is an easy way of improving a car's fuel economy by a few MPG and lowering emissions - especially if you regularly commute in heavy traffic. However... September 26, 2011 by 


 
2012 Kia Rio

2012 Kia Rio Sedan: 2011 New York Auto Show

We first saw the Hatchback version of the brand new 2012 Kia Rio debut last month at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and now it’s the Sedan’s turn for the spotlight... April 21, 2011 by 


 
2012 Kia Rio Hatchback

2012 Kia Rio Sedan Coming To New York Auto Show

High Gear Media's own Joel Feder is on the ground in Phoenix at a Kia event today, and he tells us that Kia has confirmed the new Rio sedan will be on display at the 2011 New... March 31, 2011 by  10


 

Why should I also consider these?

The new crop of subcompact fuel-sippers is better than anyone could have imagined just five years ago, and the Rio hits some important targets for gas mileage and overall appeal.

So does the Chevy Sonic, a favorite in the class for its very capable handling and turbocharged acceleration, not to mention kicky styling.

The Ford Fiesta gets kudos for its tight steering and sharp lines, but the back seat is cramped and its sluggish PowerShift automatic transmission is at odds with its sporty character.

The Honda Fit wins on overall interior space along with the Accent, and both have high-quality cabins, with the Fit's flexible rear seat taking special honors.

The new Nissan Versa hatchback improves on interior room, but handling and styling, especially in its cabin, are a little drab.

 
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is neither subsonic nor supersonic—but it's a good, sound choice and a world better than the Aveo it replaces.
 
2012 Ford Fiesta
You could do better if you most value space and comfort, but the 2012 Ford Fiesta packs in a lot of style and substance.
 
2012 Honda Fit
The 2012 Honda Fit is peppy and fun to drive, and its interior is incredibly space-efficient; but some might be turned off by its rather utilitarian look.
 
2012 Hyundai Accent
Do Americans want small cars with more room and great gas mileage? The 2012 Hyundai Accent is betting they do--and so are we.
 
2012 Nissan Versa
The 2012 Nissan Versa is a reasonably comfortable, well-equipped new car for used-car money—but if you're a stickler for the details it can feel as cheap as it is.
 
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