2016 Kia Rio vs. Its Competition

John Voelcker

The 2016 Kia Rio represents a good value for money, and its crisp European-derived styling will appeal to many.

But it's falling behind in gas mileage, and its safety scores are lagging.

For cabin space and versatility, the Honda Fit in particular has it beat.

The Nissan Versa sedan, too, has far more room inside, while the hatchback version—the Versa Note—also has decent interior room, though the handling and styling of both Versas, especially interior materials, are drab and unimpressive.

The Ford Fiesta is the most fun to drive, though it too is cramped in back, and its PowerShift automatic transmission remains a drawback.

Also from a Detroit maker, the Chevrolet Sonic remains a middle-of-the-market favorite.

Even after several years, it combines capable handling, perky turbocharged performance, and styling that works well in hatchback form.

The Rio is closest to its sibling under the skin, the Hyundai Accent, and both score for high-quality cabin materials—though the Rio has slightly less interior volume.