Kia Rio hatchback car review

Rio is a family car for supermini money; all but the most basic models are well equipped; three-year warranty and breakdown cover is confidence inspiring. Best bought used after initial depreciation.

Kia generally build reliable cars, the long 3- year warranty bears this out (5-year optional); variable build quality is dissapointing

Competent but dull; the steering lacks feel, though weighting and assistance seem fine; handling is also prone to understeer; gearchange feels old-fashioned and notchy.

Rio is a family car for supermini money; all but the most basic models are well equipped; three-year warranty and breakdown cover is confidence inspiring. Best bought used after initial depreciation.

The front seats are flat and unsupportive; plenty of legroom in the front, but rear legroom and boot space is only average.

Drivers airbag and seatbelt pre-tensioners on all, ABS fitted to LX/SE; feels flimsy no Euro NCAP test yet.

Immobiliser but little else; not likely to appeal to thieves anyway.