2012 Kia Rio SX Sedan Review

Rio exemplifies bang for the buck

Article by Justin Pritchard,

View author's other articles

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Among many other things, the 2012 Kia Rio is a bit of rolling proof that owning a small car doesn't have to be a great big buzz-kill. Small cars are big business in Canada, and shoppers are more educated and passionate than ever. Owning a fuel-efficient compact no longer means settling for a four-wheeled appliance that surrounds occupants with nasty grey plastic. Drivers want small cars they can show off - even if they're practical and don't have enough horsepower to vaporize a set of tires.

Kia's designers and product planners are aware of this.

First impressions? There are more aggressive and meaner looking rides in the price range, but the tested 2012 Kia Rio Sedan checked all the right boxes as a slightly sporty and upscale looking little machine. It's got big wheels, LED headlight accents, dual exhaust outlets and fog lamps, all adding a bit of flair.

On board

It's inside where potential shoppers are likely to fall in love. Breaking from the norm with cheap vehicles, the tester featured such things as contrasting colours, different textures and soft-touch surfaces.

There's also contrasting stitching on the heated leather seats, sport pedals, and a modern, depthy and three-dimensional look. Rio is cheap but well-dressed with a cabin that hits above its weight and could teach many an affordable car a lesson.

Drivers also get adult-friendly rear seats that fold as needed, proper cupholders, and an above-average level of at-hand storage for their wallet, change, cell phone and Tic Tacs. Also fitted were plugs to connect and recharge multimedia goodies or phones, and steering-wheel-mounted controls to work them.

There's room enough for four adults on a road trip, and a deep, large trunk rounds out the package.

It's inside where potential shoppers are likely to fall in love.

Loaded for less than $22,000

The loaded tester also got a full driver computer with fuel economy readouts, automatic lights, automatic climate control and keyless, push-button start.

A backup camera helps prevent running stuff over, satellite navigation keeps things on course, and Bluetooth streaming audio and a heated steering wheel dial up convenience and comfort.

The last car I drove with the latter few features together was an Audi that cost as much as my house. But opt for the fully loaded Rio SX at about $21,700 including the navigation package, and these advanced features are all tossed in.

A backup camera helps prevent running stuff over. 

GDI Power

And the good stuff isn't all in the cabin, either. Rio's 1.6L four-cylinder engine uses Gasoline Direct Injection technology for maximum energy extraction from every molecule of fuel it burns. Automakers around the world have been using this technology for a while, but Kia's one of the first to make it available on the cheap.

There's even a driver selectable 'Active Eco' system that numbs the throttle and lowers the transmission shift points to help save fuel at the expense of a little responsiveness.
Jam on it, and performance is modest but adequate. The Rio's new powerplant reserves plenty of pull for higher revs where the engine can sound harsh and strained, but overall performance is decent.

My 3,500-km test included lots of zippy highway driving and pegged observed mileage at 7.4L/100km. That's respectable in the hands of my lead foot.

Rio's 1.6L four-cylinder engine uses Gasoline Direct Injection technology for maximum energy extraction from every molecule of fuel it burns.
The drive

This won't shock anyone, but Rio isn't a machine engineered to set the driving enthusiast's soul on fire. It drives as well as it needs to, but dynamics aren't the priority. The 6-speed automatic is gentle and shifts cleanly, the brakes bite well, and steering is light and slightly sporty, albeit a little vague thanks to the electric assist.

Wind and road noise were kept down fairly well, adding to an upscale driving experience. The suspension is softly sporty, not too mushy and not too harsh. The tester's big wheels didn't do the ride quality any favours on rougher surfaces, though.

A value leader

Functionality, value and upscale styling are likely the biggest draws here. The Rio boasts one of the best cabins in its price range, blended with one of the most comprehensive features lists in its price range. And it's got more fuel-saving technology under the hood than virtually anything on this side of 30 grand.

Functionality, value and upscale styling are likely the biggest draws here.
I'm cheap. I wear clothes two days in a row, shop at Wal-Mart and use a ruler to squeeze every drop of toothpaste out of the tube. My favorite restaurant has a $1.99 menu.

So, that makes me value-conscious, I think. And that's probably why I related so well to the little Rio.

I guessed the price of my assigned tester a few thousand more than it actually was. And I'm usually pretty good at guessing a car's price. All said, when it comes to getting a lot for not that much, Rio makes a lot of sense.

Kia Named To "Top 10 Best Car Brands for 2012" List By Total Car Score

press release


June 12, 2012, 7:00 a.m. EDT
--Fastest-Growing Automotive Brand[1] Posts Largest Year-Over-Year Improvement on List - Kia Motors posts biggest improvement over 2011 with a 3.76-point gain in average score - Kia is one of only two non-luxury brands to receive honor
IRVINE, Calif., June 12, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Total Car Score ( www.totalcarscore.com ), one of the most comprehensive automotive ranking and comparison websites, has named Kia Motors America (KMA) as one of its "Top 10 Best Car Brands for 2012." One of only two non-luxury brands listed, the fastest-growing automotive brand in the U.S. also posted the biggest improvement over 2011 with a gain of 3.76 points. The list, based on the average Total Car Score for every model within the manufacturer's product line up, comes on the heels of the 2012 Soul urban passenger vehicle and 2012 Sorento midsize CUV being honored with "Top Scoring Car Awards" and the 2012 Forte compact sedan landing on the "Top Cars for College Grads" list from the website.

"With record sales that have contributed to Kia becoming the fastest growing car company in the U.S. over the last five years and a full line of critically acclaimed vehicles, consumer awareness of the Kia brand has dramatically increased, and this recent accolade from Total Car Score is further evidence of the breadth of our transformation," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "Kia continues to be committed to offering consumers a comprehensive array of vehicles with a hard-to-beat formula of cutting-edge technologies, high fuel efficiency, immense value and world-class design."

The "Top 10 Best Car Brands for 2012" list by Total Car Score is based on numerical ratings for 2012 model year vehicles currently on the market. The list provides a data-driven assessment of which automakers are producing the most desirable, highest quality cars, crossovers, SUVs and pickup trucks.

"As one of only two non-premium brands on the list, Kia has validated its ongoing efforts to produce some of the best cars on the market," said Karl Brauer, chief executive officer and editor-in-chief of Total Car Score.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality[2] and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking[3]. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia - KMMG - is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. - the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*. Kia's value and technology-laden lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA. In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website - www.kia.com . For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com .

About Total Car Score

Total Car Score is an automotive research and comparison website that establishes a new industry-wide standard for ranking every car, truck, van and crossover on the market. TotalCarScore.com evaluates and ranks cars according to an aggregate score based on the most trusted automotive authorities available. The site also features original content, reviews and insights from a veteran automotive journalism and data team. For more information, please go to www.totalcarscore.com .


[1] Based on 5-year cumulative growth between 12-month retail sales for periods ending April 2007 and April 2012 of all U.S. automotive brands.

* The Sorento and Optima GDI (EX Trims and certain LX Trims only) and GDI Turbo are built in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

[2] Source: Automotive Lease Guide Spring 2011 Perceived Quality Study.

[3] Source: Experian Automotive Q2 2011 market analysis.

Gary Rome Kia Announces High School Winner Of New Kia Soul

Matthew McKinney was the lucky winner of a brand new Kia Soul from Gary Rome Kia.

Winner Matthew McKinney and Gary Rome

Enfield, CT -- There were fourteen keys, only one a perfect fit.  On Friday, June 1st, the Gary Rome Kia held the raffle to determine the winner of an all new Kia Soul from the fourteen eligible students from Enrico Fermi High School in Enfield, CT.  The students all came to the Enfield Holiday Inn, dressed for success and ready to drive home the prize.

Each chose a key from a basket hoping that theirs was the only one that powered on the car.  The lucky student who selected the working key was Matthew McKinney.  As he told WGGB News, he couldn't be happier.  “It’s awesome, it’s an experience I’ll probably never forget for the rest of my life.”   

Gary Rome, CEO of Gary Rome Kia, agrees and is delighted that he could give this car to such a worthy young person.  "All of these students work hard in and out of school and deserve to be commended for their efforts.  We hope that Matthew enjoys his Kia Soul for years to come."

To qualify for an opportunity to win the raffle students had to show a dedication not only to their studies, but to outside interests and to their communities, as well.  Each potential winner has a grade point average of at least 8.0 out of 12, and has shown exemplary behavior and attendance at school.  Outside the classroom, each student is involved in at least two extracurricular activities and devotes at least fifty hours to community service.   

Matthew has been of assistance to his teachers by providing various services to them on a daily basis.  Whether it be running copies, sorting files, setting up labs or making solutions Matthew can be seen in every department here at Fermi High School willing to lend a hand and make every ones job a little easier.  Matthew also organized his Eagle Scout Project, allowing him to obtain the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting Program, as well as benefiting the community.  Matthew’s project was to paint and fix up the exterior of a church in East Windsor.

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Gary Rome Kia of Enfield serves Bristol, East Hartford and West Springfield, MA with new and used Kia cars. The staff at Gary Rome Kia of Enfield is ready to help you purchase a new Kia or used car in Enfield. When you visit our car dealership, expect the superior customer service that you deserve. With years of experience and training, the Gary Rome Kia of Enfield team is your Connecticut Kia dealer, and will get you into the Kia that was built for you. Get the new or used car by Kia in Enfield that you have been dreaming of by calling or visiting Gary Rome Kia of Enfield today.  Check out our website at http://www.garyromekia.com.

That's What You Think!

To paraphrase Sally Field, you like us, you really like us!  Gary Rome Hyundai, Gary Rome Kia, and Jack Rome wanted to thank all our wonderful Facebook fans for their amazing comments and support over the years.  We try our hardest to make your car buying experience as easy, happy and least stressful as possible.  Whether it's from great customer and auto services, affordable prices, or just a friendly "woof" from Jack, we want you to feel like part of our auto family.  Here are some of the things you have said about us that we appreciate so much:

Gary Rome Hyundai:

Cecelia Loudon: My dad bought cars from your dad when he was on Northampton Street. Followed you down and have been there since you opened on Main Street. Have always been treated well from customer service, sales and the service department. On Hyundai #4 and am sure I will be back for more.

Cherie Costa: My husband & I have bought 3 Hyundai's from Gary Rome. We have all of our sales & service done at GR and we recommend Gary Rome to all of our friends and family. Going to Gary Rome is like going home. Will never buy a car from anyone else.

Sue Torres: First dealership where being female didn't make me feel like a sitting duck!

Kerry Margaret: As a new resident of Massachusetts and first time car buyer, you made the whole process simple, entertaining (great staff!) and most of all affordable. I was nervous when I walked in but walked out thrilled with a great new car! I have never had a problem getting my car in for service and look forward to seeing friendly faces each time! Oh and it helps that Jack is super adorable :) Thanks!

Gary Rome Kia:

Angel Don Cartagena: Wonderful, affordable, and reliable cars; polite, and helpful staff; and the place looks great; also love the dog :) GO GARY ROME!!!!!

Lynn Grutti: I love this Kia dealership because they helped me when no other dealership would! I had outgrown my VW Beetle but was stuck in a tough financial situation. The staff helped me not only get the Kia Sorento that would fit my new family needs, but also worked with me on financing I could afford. Over a year later & I am still so happy & grateful for all this dealership has done for me. Thank you again, you are the best!!!

Sheila Delgado: We have a piece of our family. We bought a orange Kia soul from Gary Rome last year after our dog past away. Nothing like seeing jack and picking out a "soul" for my baby. Very patient and great rates...

Jack Rome:

Richard H. Wheeler: My girl Sara eyeballs the TV whenever the ads come on. She hears the jingle and perks right up. I guess she thinks Jack's a looker.

Chad Wheeler: My son lights up every time the commercial comes on. "Daddy, doggy!"

Janet Lindsey: Dogs appeal to our sense of friendship, loyalty, devotion...Jack, you embody these qualities and your presence brings a sense of confidence to all those who walk through your dad's doors.....

Lucky Student To Receive Free Kia Soul From Gary Rome Kia

Gary Rome Kia of Enfield will be giving away a brand new Kia Soul to one eligible student from Enrico Fermi High School.

Enfield, CT -- Education is the stepping stone to a successful life, to becoming a productive member of society, and to bettering the world at large.  The British writer Gilbert K. Chesterston once said, "Education is simply the soul of a society as it passes from one generation to another."  The Gary Rome Kia dealership of Enfield, CT agrees that a good education is both timeless and priceless.  In concordance with this sentiment, Gary Rome Kia is holding a raffle to reward one deserving student at the local Enrico Fermi High School with his or her very own Kia Soul.

To qualify for an opportunity to win the raffle students had to show a dedication not only to their studies, but to outside interests and to their communities, as well.  Each potential winner has a grade point average of at least 8.0 out of 12.  He or she cannot have been absent more than 8 times, nor can he or she have any detentions, suspensions, expulsions, or been arrested in school or in the community.

Academics is only half the equation, though.  Being a good student also entails being well-rounded and socially active.  In order to earn a chance at the Kia Soul, each student must participate in at least 2 extracurricular activities in school.  Outside the schoolyard, each student must devote at least 50 hours of his or her own time to community service.

The drawing to declare the winner will take place Friday, June 1st.  Gary Rome Kia would like to recognize the achievements of all 14 finalists who qualified for the Kia Soul giveaway:

Stephen Ballard

Stephen is very talented and involved in the music program here at Fermi High School. Stephen has donated his time and expertise to the program by tutoring other students. He has also participated in the Program of Studies evening, Safe Graduation Auction, String Festival, Jazz Festival as well as working at the concession stand at some of the Boys home Basketball games.

Sean Bridges

Sean is a very active member in the Enfield community and has donated his time to many worthwhile causes. Some of these causes included the Enfield Food Shelf, 4^th of July Road Race, Enfield Garden Club, Enfield Library Drop and Shop Event, Enfield’s Family Day Event and donations to NADA Women’s Shelter. His volunteer services do not stop there, for he has also had the ability to show his leadership as a co-facilitator of the Names Can Really Hurt Us Program.

Jennifer Coffey

Jen’s community service has involved helping her fellow students as well as stepping out into the community. Jen has been involved in various venues here at Fermi which include Fermi Fest, Freshman Orientation and LMC Tutoring. Her outside services span to include Toys for Joy Event, Rays of Hop Walk, Firefighters Book Drive and the Brownie Troop Pencil Project.

Bryan Cressotti

While overcoming obstacles of his own, Bryan still finds time to participate in many different activities and duties at a Child Development Center in East Windsor. His help and contributions to the center are greatly appreciated by not only the staff members but the families as well.

Gordon “Trey” Duggan

Trey has served the community well as a volunteer on the North Thompsonville Fire Department. He made his presence known during Winter Storm Alfred responding and assisting Enfield residents through emergency situations while supporting the other 5 fire departments in Enfield. He also serves the community on a daily basis through NTFD by responding to fire calls and attending weekly drills.

Michelle Cunha

Michelle is serving the Enfield community admirably by volunteering on the North Thompsonville Fire District #10 first as a cadet, and now as a regular volunteer firefighter. This developmental program has Michelle responding to emergency incidents and performing exercises to assist those in distress.

Marie Czarnecki

Marie is part of the LEO Club and has contributed many hours helping out our Senior Citizens within the community. Either it is a Holiday Party, Bowling or Rock-a-Thon at the Little Sisters of the Poor or a Pancake Breakfast at the Enfield Senior Center Marie is a welcomed volunteer. Mario also participates at a Physical Therapy Partners helping in the rehabilitation and wellness of their patients.

Alicia DiVito

Alicia has divided her community service hours assisting in numerous community service events held by the Enrico Fermi High School Instrumental Department as well as many outside organizations. With her music credentials being key, Alicia has assisted in the Enfield String Festival, Fermi Jazz Festival, Fermi Talent Show and new students to Music Freshman Orientation Program. Alicia has also volunteered at Shop Rite food drive, Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen and Network against Domestic Abuse collecting items for women and children and then assembling them into baskets for delivery.

Allison Dufour

Alli is a skilled violinist and has volunteered many hours working with younger students as part of a music team helping them to hone their skills. Whether it is organizing practices, scheduling rehearsals or giving additional hours to make sure the music would be top notch, Alli has been an example for young people to follow.

Victor Hipolito

Victor’s community service has included a wide variety of volunteer hours serving his community, school and church. His array of service has incorporated a Pot-luck supper, Jack-O-Latern Festival—Lego Competition—Faculty Holiday party and as a church usher.

Kaycee Hubbard

Behind every charity is a group of volunteers who make things run smoothly. Kaycee Hubbard is one of those people. She has contributed many hours of service by hosting meals for the poor and needy at a soup kitchen facility located in Chicopee, MA. Kaycee has helped in meal preparation, serve and clean up. Besides being a great addition to the volunteer staff, Kaycee’s allegiance to individuals and families in need is heartwarming.

Matthew McKinney

Matt has been of assistance to his teachers by providing various services to them on a daily basis. Whether it be running copies, sorting files, setting up labs or making solutions Matt can be seen in every department here at Fermi High School willing to lend a hand and make every ones job a little easier. Matt also organized his Eagle Scout Project, allowing him to obtain the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting Program, as well as benefiting the community. Matt’s project was to paint and fix up the exterior of a church in East Windsor.

Maxwell Partyka

Max’s diversity has shown through by the variety of ways he has volunteered his time over the last year. It could be as simple as helping to prepare for Family Science Night, or playing his viola for the church orchestra every Sunday or a little more painful like donating blood at the Student Senate Blood Drive. Max has also enjoyed his time spent at the local food shelter or helping Friends of the Library at its annual book sale.

Kim Sweeney

Kim has volunteered over 80 hours in the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at Johnson Memorial Hospital. Kim’s dependability, compassion and energy have made contributions to the lives of these residents by providing comfort and friendship is appreciated by both the staff and patients alike.

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Gary Rome Kia of Enfield serves Bristol, East Hartford and West Springfield, MA with new and used Kia cars. The staff at Gary Rome Kia of Enfield is ready to help you purchase a new Kia or used car in Enfield. When you visit our car dealership, expect the superior customer service that you deserve. With years of experience and training, the Gary Rome Kia of Enfield team is your Connecticut Kia dealer, and will get you into the Kia that was built for you. Get the new or used car by Kia in Enfield that you have been dreaming of by calling or visiting Gary Rome Kia of Enfield today.  Check out our website at http://www.GaryRomeKia.com.

USAA Names Kia Sportage To 2012 Best Value List

Being a younger sibling myself, I know the feeling of sometimes being overshadowed by an older sibling.  In the overall Hyundai Corporation, which includes both Hyundai Motors and Kia Motors, it is Hyundai (especially the Elantra) that has been accumulating accolades and awards left and right.  But little sister Kia is catching up and making a name for herself as well.

2012 Kia Sportage

The United Services Automobile Association (USAA) came out with their second annual "Best Value" vehicles list, which identifies the top 2012 automobiles in 16 categories that give consumers the most bang for their buck.  The Kia Sportage was crowned "Best Value" in the small SUV category for the second consecutive year, recognized for offering a competitive price and low insurance costs as well as being one of the Small SUV Top Safety Picks for 2012 from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

"The goal of the list is to help members identify vehicles that typically offer better safety ratings, lower insurance premium costs, higher fuel economy, better overall reliability and lower MSRP compared to other vehicles in the same category," said Steve Thompson, an assistant vice president at USAA.  "The Kia Sportage rose to the top as a vehicle that offers these key elements, making it a great buy for the value-minded consumer."

In addition to the "Best Value" list, the USAA also compiled a Top Ten for Teens list. The USAA commissioned a survey of parents asking what they value most in a car for their teenage children.  The top three parental considerations are reliability (81%), safety (73%), and affordable auto insurance (62%).  Another Kia model, the Kia Forte, ranks as one of their top ten cars based on these factors.

These new titles of high value are just some of the latest positive press Kia Motors is garnering.  Kia Motors America (KMA) has seen 20 consecutive months of year-over-year sales growth, and has been saluted by NADAguides, a leading provider of vehicle pricing and information, by having three of its vehicles - Rio 5-Door SX, Forte SX and Soul + - named to the publication's "Most Versatile 2012 New Cars Under $20K" list. Kia placed more vehicles than any other automaker on the top ten list.

"Having three of our vehicles named to NADAguides' 'Most Versatile 2012 New Cars Under $20K' list validates how far our brand has come in terms of quality, packaging and features development in such a short period of time," said Orth Hedrick, director of product planning, KMA. "With the presence and eye-catching style of Rio, Forte and Soul, Kia's complete vehicle line is comprised of a wide breadth of capable offerings at very affordable price points."

Teenage Dream

What 16 year old with a brand new license doesn't imagine hitting the road in his dream car with all the works?  And what parent of a 16 year old with a brand new license doesn't dread that same fantasy?  With the Kia Rio, both the parent and the child can feel happy with that teenager behind the wheel.

According to Vroomgirls.com, the premier automotive website for and by women, the Kia Rio has been dubbed one of the "Six Best New Cars For Your Teenager."  The combination of safety features, excellent fuel economy, and affordable pricing with a stylish exterior, USB connectivity, and easy-to-use dashboard makes for a car that appeals to both the parent and the teenager.

"Parents want a safe, reliable car for their kids, but teens only care about what's cool," said Tara Weingarten, Vroomgirls.com Editor-in-Chief. "The 2012 Kia Rio checks both of those boxes."

The Rio comes as both a 4-door sedan and 5-door hatchback.  Both models offer the kind of amenities everyone can appreciate, no matter what your age.  The estimated 30 MPG city and 40 MPG highway means the Rio is the most-fuel efficient car of the six listed.  A USB-compatible stereo with steering-wheel controls allows teens to listen to their music without taking their eyes off the road.  The Rio also has either a 5 year/60,000 mile warranty for the whole car, or a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty on the engine, transmission and driveline.  Any way you look at it, this car gives you a great deal, no matter if you're 16 or 46.