Kia Rio 1.0 T GDi 48V 118 3 5dr Review
Category: Small car
Section: Version review
The model
Read full reviewThe Kia Rio is a promising small car with price on its side. Its turbocharged engines are perfectly competent around town and at motorway speeds. We’d stick to the 2 trim because it adds AEB, gives you access to our favourite engine, has plenty of equipment and still keeps the price competitive. The mild-hybrid engine is only available as part of grade 3 trim, which pushes the Rio’s price too close to more desirable and efficient rivals such as the Honda Jazz and Toyota Yaris hybrid.
The trim
See full equipmentThis trim adds larger 16in alloys, climate control, faux-leather seats that are heated in the front, a heated steering wheel, automatic wipers and connected infotainment features.
The engine
See full engine specsThis is essentially a more powerful, 118bhp, mild-hybrid version of the regular 1.0-litre (badged 1.0 T-GDi 48V). That means there is a small electric motor and battery, which adds a little electrical ‘kick’ to the engine as you drive around. The assistance is very mild, however, and you won’t notice its extra power unless you’re pushing on particularly hard, so we don’t think it’s worth the additional outlay.
