The model
Read full reviewThe Kia Rio is a promising small car with price on its side, while its turbocharged engines are perfectly competent both around town and at faster motorway speeds. It’s a shame the entry-level trim does without AEB, but grade ‘2’ trim comes with plenty of kit, gives you access to our favourite 1.0-litre turbocharged engine and keeps the Rio’s price competitive. We’d avoid stepping up to the mild-hybrid version of the same engine as it’s only available as part of grade ‘3’ trim and this pushes the Rio’s price too close to more desirable and even more efficient rivals such as the Honda Jazz and Toyota Yaris hybrid.
get the best priceThe trim
See full equipmentIn light of grade ‘1’ trim not giving you AEB, we’d suggest moving up to ‘2’ trim, which is our favourite Rio trim level. Doing so also gives you 15in alloy wheels, a leather steering wheel and gear knob, rear electric windows, electric folding mirrors, cruise control and the 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system we mentioned earlier.
The engine
See full engine specsThe 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine with 99bhp (badged 1.0 T-GDi) is our pick of the range. It’s as flexible as the small turbo engines you’ll find in the Ford Fiesta and Skoda Fabia and has the legs to sit comfortably at motorway speeds.
Key information
52.3
325
litres
123
g/km
Also consider
MG 3
2018 - present
The MG 3 is keenly priced, but still hard to recommend
Hyundai i10
2020 - present
Spacious, quiet, comfortable and good value on PCP financ...
Citroën C3
2020 - present
Funky looks inside and out, but poor to drive and not very pra...
Suzuki Swift
2020 - present
The Suzuki Swift has tidy handling and a strong turbo engine...