Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2013 Kia Rio EX active ECO. I had mixed feelings about the economic operation of the ECO built into this Rio to save fuel. But I got used to the engine turning off at stops and when you let your foot off the brake the engine starts quickly without hesitation.
It is a nice 4 door sedan that is roomy for a compact and you will surely appreciate not having to stop for gas quite as often.
General Information:
It is assembled in Korea . Classification is Compact. Cars from Kia: Forte, Forte Koup, Optima, Optima Hybrid, Rio, Rio5, Sedona, Sorento, Soul and Sportage.
Handling & Performance:
Kia is the first in the U.S. to offer stop-start, which smartly shuts down the engine when it would otherwise be needlessly idling and automatically (and quickly) restarts when you release the brake and press on the accelerator.
It’s a new feature for 2013 and is released before EcoBoost versions for the 2013 Ford Fusion, which will have a comparable feature. Some Kia models for overseas markets have had the feature before the U.S market got it. Kia has been a little more careful in forming a positive impression around the new technology in such a major market.
Those who commute mostly in dense stop-and-go traffic could possibly see improvements of ten percent or more versus Rios without the feature—meaning that there could be an eventual payoff years down the road, especially if gas prices continue rising. I think we can count on higher gas prices.
Styling:
Styling is pretty simple with traditional sedan lines. Nice.
Fit and Finish:
Good.
Cost:
Very affordable. The ECO version is about $1,000 more. Gas prices, if they continue to rise, will make the ECO pay for itself.
Conveniences and comfort:
All the features I’d expect in this price range.
Consumer Recommendation:
This Kia Rio remains a good option in the compact segment delivering great fuel economy. The competition is fierce and that is good for you and me. With so much for the money it is hard to imagine anyone not being able to afford convenient and reliable transportation.
Recognized Competition:
Kia Rio $18,000, Chevrolet Sonic $15,000, Fiat 500 $16,000, Ford Fiesta $15,000, Honda Fit $18,000, Hyundai Accent $15,000, Hyundai Veloster $17,000, Mazda 2 $16,000, Nissan Versa $17,000, Scion iQ $16,000, Suzuki $16,000, Toyota Prius c $19,000, Toyota Yaris $16,000.
Good News:
Great fuel economy, ECO new technology, well priced.
Bad News:
Low front end that is easy to damage underside front on cement parking stops.
Standard Equipment:
1.6 liter 138 horsepower inline 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed auto transmission, electric power steering, front, side and side curtain airbags, LATCH system, traction control, stability control, stability management, hill assist control, air conditioning, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, audio with CD/MP3, SIRIUS satellite radio, 60/40 split folding rear seat, cruise control, Bluetooth wireless technology, tilt / telescopic steering wheel, alloy wheels, fog lights, auto on/off lights, power folding mirrors, rear camera display, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual map lights, ISG Idle Stop and Go system.
Gas Stats:
$4.03/ Gal avg. March 21, 2013
For more information.
30 City and 36 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $18,515.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
