2008 Kia Rio

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By  Marty Padgett, Executive Editor

2008 Kia Rio Rio5 LX
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TheCarConnection.com's editors read the latest reviews on the new 2008 Kia Rio to write this comprehensive review. Our car experts also drove the 2008 Kia Rio to be able to deliver our definitive opinion on the car, to compare it with other cars in the class, and to help you decide if the Rio is the best car for you.

Likes:
- Perky styling
- Inexpensive utility of Rio5
- Sprightly handling

Dislikes:
- Passenger side-impact protection
- Engine noise
- Manual shift feel

The 2008 Kia Rio sedan is a near-copy of the Hyundai Accent, while the five-door Rio5 is a distinct model not shared by Kia's South Korean cousin.

The Rio and Rio5, both offered in LX and SX models, share a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 110 horsepower. It can be teamed with either a five-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic. Power is a relative term, but since the Rios are small, they feel quick on their feet. Fuel economy for the new model year hits 25/35 mpg for the automatic, 27/32 mpg for manual shift cars--good but not great numbers compared to the Honda Fit's 28/34 mpg.

The Rio SX versions have specific tires and suspension settings, and feel slightly more sporting. The brakes seem strong, but the Rio's manual shift linkage can feel imprecise. Engine noise is a problem, too.

There is nothing cramped about the interior, and even the rear seating area offers plenty of leg, head, and shoulder room for an average adult male. Remember, it's a subcompact, not an SUV, so the Rio should be used for four adults on shorter trips. The seats themselves are fairly comfortable, and the interior trim is of a good grade for this price class. On the Rio5, a fairly large cargo area tucks beneath the hatchback.

While the base model is fairly unadorned, the 2008 Kia Rio LX models have a CD stereo, and they offer a Power Package that includes power locks, mirrors, and windows; keyless entry; and heated mirrors. The SX version gets sport tuning for its suspension, fog lights, and a spoiler. An auxiliary jack for MP3 players is standard on all Rios.

Six airbags--including side, curtain, and dual front airbags--are standard, while anti-lock brakes are optional. Kia scores four- and five-star ratings for crash protection in the 2008 Rio and Rio5, but side impact protection lags with a three-star rating for passenger side protection.

The Bottom Line:
The 2008 Kia Rio is a good choice among subcompacts and it’s stylish, but standard anti-lock brakes and better side-impact protection would help its case against the Honda Fit.

Other Choices:
If you like the 2008 Kia Rio, also consider:

- Chevrolet Aveo
- Toyota Yaris
- Honda Fit
- Hyundai Accent

The Hyundai Accent four-door is essentially identical to the Kia Rio sedan; the Accent also comes in a hatchback version, as does the Toyota Yaris. The Chevrolet Aveo is sized and shaped like the Kia Rio and Rio5, but has a slightly better interior. The Honda Fit is the leader in this class, thanks to a clever folding rear seat, as well as superior fuel economy and crash performance.

Buying Tip:
The 2008 Kia Rio is one of the least expensive cars sold in the United States. It's worth spending a little extra for anti-lock brakes--they're a must--and TheCarConnection.com's editors prefer the Rio5 for its additional cargo room. The SX editions have good on-road feel, too. Still, you may decide that a two-year-old compact car--with more luxury features and more interior room--is an equally good choice.