Overall reader verdict 4 out of 5 stars

  • What's it like to drive
    4 out of 5 stars
  • Running costs
    4 out of 5 stars
  • Quality, practicality and equipment
    4 out of 5 stars

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Kia Rio (11-) Hatchback
3 reader reviews for Kia Rio Hatchback.

  • 1.4D ISG 3 5dr

    Robert Perrett , West Midlands . Date: 03/02/2012
    • Overall verdict
      5 out of 5 stars
    • What's it like to drive
      5 out of 5 stars
    • Running costs
      5 out of 5 stars
    • Quality, practicality and equipment
      5 out of 5 stars
    • Average MPG
      67

    My car

    I have recently purchased the new Kia Rio. I have had to wait almost 4 months for it all the way from korea, but it definately was worth the wait. I had mine in solid white paint and it looks lovely with the white led daytime running lights, plus the 17 inch 5 spoke blade chopper alloys. Very pleased with it. One thing that hit me almost immediately was how good the ride is and the refinement on various types of road surfaces. I would say it feels like a £18,000+ vehicle Im driving with howgood the ride and refinement is. Engine noise is kept to a whisper, I did think been a diesel it would abit noisy, but you get the impression the car is petrol with how quiet it is. Bulid quality is great on a par with japanese quality and the attention to detail in the cabin and fit and finish inside and out is excellent. The steering is heavyish, but responsive and involving at the same time. For a 1.4 Crdi I am extremely impressed with the mid range pull. A tad slow around low revs to pick up, but you forget about that as it just a nice place to be. Stop/start system is unusual, as I have never had a vehicle with it on before, but you can see where it saves you money, when sitting in traffic as I regularly do. I had a ford fiesta zetec s tdci before, had it for 3 years and that had no end of problems. (This being the latest fiesta) The kia rio is a much better car to drive and more upmarket feel, far quieter to.I must say Im blowen away with how good it really is. Recommend it to anyone

  • 1.4 3 5dr

    Paul Scott , Surrey . Date: 30/11/2011
    • Overall verdict
      4 out of 5 stars
    • What's it like to drive
      4 out of 5 stars
    • Running costs
      4 out of 5 stars
    • Quality, practicality and equipment
      4 out of 5 stars
    • Average MPG
      46

    My car

    This is a great buy for the money. Loaded with kit, and in silver it looks great with those big machined alloys and dark rear tints. The LED running lights actually look at home in the headlamp cluster instead of an afterthought (Ford, Citroen etc.). I wouldn't recommend the red that Kia have used in all their promotional material, presumably to appeal to the younger buyer - it doesn't look metallic, despite the additional cost. The 17" wheels make the ride on the firm side, and yes, the steering is a little vague on the straight, but I find I've got used to the way it handles and I'm beginning to really enjoy the driving experience. Not something you could have said about the porridge-based previous generation Rio. Though not quick, the acceleration through the gears doesn't feel frustratingly slow either, and the car still pulls well even in 6th gear. The interior is certainly up to the standard of the Fiesta and Corsa, if a little quirky looking, and miles ahead of Seat. Fuel economy is as expected, i.e. nothing like the published figures. I manage around 46mpg in mixed driving which I think is perfectly acceptable for this size of car. The only quibble I have - you'll need those optional rear parking sensors if you go for 1 or 2 trim unless you're used to viewing the world through a letterbox. That rear window really is tiny viewed from the driver's seat, and the reversing light is pretty weak. All in all though, thoroughly recommended. 7 year warranty! 3 services £259!!!

  • 1.4 3 5dr

    John Foden , West Midlands . Date: 20/10/2011
    • Overall verdict
      4 out of 5 stars
    • What's it like to drive
      3 out of 5 stars
    • Running costs
      4 out of 5 stars
    • Quality, practicality and equipment
      5 out of 5 stars
    • Average MPG
      45

    My car

    Definitely worth considering. While handling and road-holding are reasonable rather than exceptional, the car is extremely good looking and is well built. The interior is just about the best in cars of this sector of the market; roomy, well designed, quiet and comfortable, The higher spec. models are extremely well equipped for the purchase price and the 7 year warranty is unbeatable. Doesn't handle as well as a Ford Fiesta, but for just about any other reason, should be seriously considered.

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