2017 Kia Rio Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Are you looking for a high-quality subcompact sedan or hatchback but are on a restricted budget? The 2017 Kia Rio offers a lot of features and performance abilities that help it compete with some of the more expensive vehicles in its class.

What's New for 2017?

The only change that has been made to the 2017 Kia Rio from the 2016 line-up is that the SX trim is no longer available on the sedan. You can still get the SX trim on the hatchback. Aside from this, relatively everything is the same as it was on the 2016 models.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Kia Rio – The Pros

1. Many Standard and Optional Features

The 2017 Kia Rio comes packed with a lot of standard options, such as folding rear backseats in the LX models and automatic transmission and Bluetooth capability on the hatchbacks. There are also many optional features that can be purchased, such as the Eco Package on the EX, which includes leather seating and an upgraded audio system.

2. Impressively Long Warranty

There are a few options for a warranty. You can opt for the 5 year/60,000 miles basic warranty to start with and up to the 10 year/100,000 miles powertrain warranty. This includes a trip interruption policy, emergency roadside assistance, and a toll-free hotline to call in case you get stranded.

3. Rapid Acceleration

Even the base trim's 138-hp four-cylinder engine gets decent acceleration, with the SX going from 0 to 60 in about 9.4 seconds. This makes it a bit faster than average for a subcompact vehicle.

4. Spacious for a Subcompact

For a subcompact, the 2017 Kia Rio is quite spacious. The front seats are height-adjustable, making it easy for people of any size to find a comfortable seating position. Those sitting in the rear will also enjoy a good amount of leg, shoulder, and head room compared to what you might find in other subcompact vehicles.

5. Affordability

On a tight budget? The 2017 Kia Rio won't cause you to deplete your bank account. In fact, the starting MSRP for the base trim is $14,165, making it one of the most affordable new vehicles on the market.

6. Powerful Engine for the Class

Subcompacts aren't known for having the most powerful engines. However, the Rio's 138-hp four-cylinder engine gets 123 pounds-feet of torque that it sends to the front wheels. This little subcompact has a lot of get-up-and-go power and isn't thirsty for gas, unlike some of its competitors.

7. Decent Fuel Economy

In order to get decent fuel economy from the Rio, you will have to add the Eco Package, but it is worth the purchase. An EX with Eco options gets about 31 mpg combined (27 city/36 highway mpg). This is relatively good compared to other types of vehicles and is comparable to some high-performing subcompacts. While vehicles like the Honda Fit outperform the Rio, the Rio's fuel economy will be ideal for anyone on a tight budget.

8. Decent-Quality Material

With the price being as low as it is, you might expect to find cheap materials on the inside, but you will be pleasantly surprised to see all of the decent-quality materials in the Rio's cabin. The soft-touch trim and upgraded cloth upholstery are nice touches that give the Rio a classier feel, though the vehicle is far from flashy.

9. Sufficient Cargo Space

Subcompacts are often lacking in cargo space. However, you will find that the Rio's 49.8 cubic feet with rear seats folded down on the hatchback is more than sufficient and is really quite a generous amount for its class.

10. Smooth Ride Quality

The Rio has a smooth ride quality that many drivers will appreciate. The SX's firmly-tuned suspension and larger wheel size contribute to an especially smooth ride quality and make it the ideal trim to purchase from its lineup this year.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Kia Rio – The Cons

1. Handling Lacks Sophistication

Handling on the SX is the most responsive out of any of the trim levels, but, all-around, it lacks the sophistication that you will find on some of its competitors that possess more refined suspensions.

2. Non-telescoping Steering Wheel on the Base LX

The LX has a non-telescoping steering wheel, meaning that anyone who has a short reach or long legs might be a bit uncomfortable being stuck behind a wheel that they cannot adjust to their height or arm length. Many vehicles come standard with telescoping steering wheels, so those who require one will have to consider buying up from the base trim.

3. Power Package Requirements on Sedan

If you opt to buy the Power Package for the sedan, you will also have to purchase the automatic transmission, which includes audio connectivity and Bluetooth capabilities. This isn't necessarily a bad thing unless you prefer a manual transmission.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Rio vs. 2017 Ford Fiesta

Hovering in the same affordable price range as the 2017 Kia Rio, the 2017 Ford Fiesta has a sportier handling, and even the base model comes with a lengthy list of standard features that rival those on the Rio. However, cargo space is much more limited in the Fiesta, and the automatic transmission does not shift smoothly.

Rio vs. 2017 Honda Fit

The Honda Fit is about $2,000 more expensive at its starting MSRP, but it is incredibly roomy and gets impeccable fuel efficiency. Its braking is somewhat substandard compared to that on the Rio, and there is a lack of leg room for taller people.

Conclusion

The 2017 Kia Rio is a smooth-riding vehicle with a surprising amount of power and space for a subcompact. If you are looking for something affordable, spacious, and reliable with enough features to keep you safe on the road, consider giving the Rio a test drive.