Kia Rio 5 stretches limits of standard features in entry-level cars

With the Rio5, Kia is stretching the envelope when it comes to thinking about entry-level cars. The sample I drove had a heated steering wheel, full navigation system and numerous other features not normally associated with sub-compact automobiles.

Kia can do this because it has established a reputation for building high quality vehicles across a wide spectrum of segments and no longer has to play the bargain card. With both initial and longer-term quality surveys showing the advances the company has made in that area, Kia is putting even greater pressure on the competition. It is stressing the value of its products by providing extensive standard equipment and high-end options – for a price the others can only dream of. It can do this because of the vagaries of international exchange rates, just as the Japanese manufacturers did in the ’80s.

The test vehicle, the smallest car Kia makes, was absolutely loaded with features normally found in larger and far more expensive vehicles. In addition to the standard features on even a $14,995 Rio5 (power windows and locks, heated mirrors, height adjustable driver’s seat, tilt wheel and a four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with satellite radio and USB and Aux inputs, and intermittent rear wiper) the tester had air conditioning, wireless connectivity, heated seats, remote keyless entry, cruise control, 17-inch alloy wheels, audio and trim upgrades trim, power folding mirrors, power sunroof, tilt and telescope steering wheel, keyless ignition, cooled glove box, heated steering wheel, rearview camera and two-tone leather seats. All this for $21,784.

Styled in Kia’s California studios under the under the direction of noted designer Peter Schreyer, the Rio5 is a distinct departure from its predecessor and a very contemporary looking vehicle. It is longer, lower and wider that the model it replaces and boasts more interior space. Front seat headroom has been increased by 22-mm while rear seat occupants, while not exactly ensconced in the space of a limo, get 15-mm more headroom and 40-mm more legroom than in the old Rio5.

The interior also showcases Kia’s interest in design as a way of pleasing customers and standard apart from the pack. The dash is comprised of a speedometer flanked by the tachometer and fuel gauge. The center stack is topped by the audio system with big easy to decipher and use HVAC controls just below. There are plenty of storage bins and a sliding, padded armrest.

The refined interior feel is further cemented by the use of soft touch materials and pleasant textures. Fit and finish are first rate and there is no sign this in inexpensive little car.

Because this is a totally new platform, the engineers were able to update everything from the engine to the brakes. In fact it is as new body on a new platform, powered by a new engine coupled to a new transmission.

The engine is the company’s new “Gamma” 1.6-litre four-cylinder unit with twin camshafts, direct injection, electronic throttle control and variable valve timing. It produces 138 horsepower and Transport Canada says it is capable of 4.9/100 highway and 6.6 city) on regular fuel. That’s better than all in the class and most hybrids. I didn’t get those numbers, but then my driving style is not exactly conducive to maximizing fuel economy.

If economy is your want, press the little green button to the left of the steering wheel marked ECO. The control unit will soften throttle inputs and adjusts shift points to ensure maximum efficiency. It cuts back on response considerably but does have a positive effect on fuel use.  With a light foot and level terrain you can expect to use up to five per cent less fuel. The system automatically reverts to normal when passing, climbing grades or other situations where full power is necessary use.

The “gritty” sound you hear at idle is typical of direct injection engines. It is the result of the high pressure injection which is sending fuel into the cylinders at more than 2,000 pounds per square inch of pressure. Once underway the engine is smooth, quiet and reasonably powerful. It is able to propel this car with some fervor because of the light weight.

The Rio5 comes with your choice of six speed transmissions, automatic or manual. The test car, in SX trim comes with the automatic. An internal design, it is so efficient it actually matches the fuel mileage numbers of the manual transmission with the same number of ratios.

On the road the Rio5, even the SX level with “sport tuned” suspension provides a reasonable supple ride. The low profile tires on this trim level don’t have enough sidewall to absorb abrupt surface changes, but they do contribute to a sharper steering feel. Despite the reference to “sport tuning” don’t mistake this for a sports car.  Push it into a corner with semblance of speed and under-steer will set in early.   

The Kio Rio5 has an eye-catching look, a raft of standard equipment, awesome fuel mileage and you can load it with all kinds of high-tech gadgetry and not break the bank.

Courtesy of thechronicleherald.ca