Kia Rio Sedan 1,4 Tec (2012) Driving Impression

For every up-and-coming brand there are one or two models that finally break down those pesky barriers to mainstream acceptance. For Hyundai it was the Getz and Tucson. For Kia, very likely, it is the current Sportage and the latest Rio hatchback. Already a strong seller, the Rio hatch’s combination of attractive design, quality interior, comprehensive standard specification and back-up package (warranty and service plan) has made it a very significant rival to the likes of the Polo, Clio and Yaris. And now there’s a Kia Rio sedan version. Can this Korean brand’s run of success continue?

Class-leading desirability

Design is a very subjective matter, and complete agreement about the success or otherwise of a car’s visual appeal is a highly unlikely result. However, we’re yet to meet anyone who would not describe the Kia Rio sedan as the most attractive car in its class. In Tec trim it gets the same eye-catching LED light detailing and striking 17-inch alloy wheels as the hatchback, items that have played a big part in the Rio’s showroom success. But even without these features, the Kia Rio sedan’s basic shape remains attractive – it’s remarkably devoid of frilly detailing, but boasts some impressive sculpting along the sides and a very neatly integrated boot section with a steeply raked rear window. You can see that design boss Peter Schreyer didn’t allow his team to merely “tack” on the boot.

Inside, the major difference between the hatch and sedan is, of course, the emphasis on spaciousness. With a 2 570 mm wheelbase, the Kia Rio is not a cramped vehicle, but rear legroom is nevertheless not class-leading. Kia has prioritised boot space, with the resultant square and deep luggage compartment capable of swallowing around 400 L-worth of luggage. The rear seats also fold down to accommodate bigger items.

Front occupants sit behind the same attractive facia as Kia Rio hatch occupants would. Ultimately, the materials and fit and finish are not quite of the same grade as, for example, a VW Polo’s, but it’s close… and in terms of design and features the Kia Rio pulls ahead by a significant margin. The instrumentation is very sporty, with three overlapping dials, and there’s a row of very neat switches underneath the climate control panel. Most importantly, the Rio features an attractive leather-wrapped steering wheel as standard, and the spokes don’t only boast controls for the audio system, but also for the standard Bluetooth functionality. The driver’s positioning will also be spot-on for most, seeing as the steering wheel is adjustable for rake and reach.

Yes, indeed… the Kia Rio Tec has a very comprehensive specification level that also includes climate control, auto lights and wipers, electrically adjustable (and folding) mirrors, a top-notch radio/CD system and rear park assist. And although the Rio lacks an electronic stability system (ESP), the safety package is nevertheless up to class standard and includes six airbags and ABS/EBD.

No go to match the show

With its sporty looks the Kia Rio Tec does create certain performance expectations that it ultimately struggles to live up to. The 1,4-litre engine under the bonnet delivers a sufficient 79 kW, but the torque is relatively limited at 135 Nm. Not only that… the maximum torque figure is only available at a high 4 200 rpm, so you have to work that six-speed manual transmission to access the power band. Thankfully, the gearbox is a good one, with a slick, accurate shift action. The engine, however, starts to feel a little “thrashy” at higher revs, so venturing into the upper reaches of the rev range is not an entirely enjoyable exercise. Besides, the performance remains limited. A 0-100 km/h time of 11,5 seconds is probably on par for this segment, but the Kia Rio feels even slower than that on the road. And overtaking requires some planning at speeds near the national limit. The engine is, however, quite economical, with the consumption of figure of 6,4 L/100 km being achievable when the driver is economy focused. Aiding the economy (but not so much the performance) is the relatively light weight – 1 195 kg.

Dynamically, the Kia Rio claws back some lost ground. The steering may not offer much in the way of feel or feedback, but it’s reasonably accurate and body control is good. Thankfully, the good effort on the handling front has not come at the expensive of ride comfort, which is the more important dynamic aspect in this type of vehicle. The suspension remains supple and controlled on most surfaces, but perhaps there is slightly too much noise from the road and tyres that reach the cabin.

Kia Rio – Verdict

The compact sedan market is not exactly booming at present, with most consumers preferring the perceived greater versatility and sportiness of hatchbacks. If you do need a compact car with a boot, though, then this Kia Rio shoots straight to the top of its class. Yes, it may lack performance and there are one or two rough edges, but considering the overall packaging, design, specification and value, it’s a difficult-to-resist package. It’s another very strong new model from Kia, clearly a brand on the move.

We like:

• Attractive looks
• Standard specification
• Build quality
• Warranty and service plan

We don’t like:

• Performance

Fast facts

Engine: 1,4-litre, four-cylinder, petrol
Power: 79 kW @ 6 300 rpm
Torque: 135 Nm @ 4 200 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Wheels: 17-inch alloy
Top speed: 183 km/h
0-100 km/h: 11,5 seconds
Fuel economy: 6,4 L/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

• Volkswagen Polo Sedan 1,4i Comfortline: The Polo still feels like the slightly more refined car, especially in terms of its drivetrain, but the Kia Rio pulls ahead on specification and features. The Volkswagen’s engine also lacks power compared with the Korean.
• Hyundai Accent 1,6 Fluid: New on the market and essentially the Kia’s sibling, but the Rio is the more impressive offering. Although the Hyundai has the performance edge, it can’t match the Kia’s specification and, especially, its cool design features.
• Chevrolet Sonic 1,6 LS: Bowtie-badge or not, this is another strong Korean contender… The Sonic may look somewhat bizarre, but it’s priced well and the interior fit and finish, as well as the comfort levels, are very good. More refined than you’d think.