2003 Kia Rio: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Kia's entry-level subcompacts get subtle styling changes, a larger engine, and extra standard and optional features for '03. Among the least-expensive cars on the market, Rio offers a sedan and wagon, the latter called Cinco. Both have a 4-cyl engine that goes from 1.5 liters and 96 hp to 1.6 liters and 104 for 2003. Manual transmission is standard, automatic optional. Options include ABS, air conditioning, power steering, and power door locks, and now power windows and fog lights. Side airbags aren't offered. Added as standard for '03 are rear-seat heater ducts, cupholders in the front-door map pockets and, for Cinco, a CD player. Kia claims engineering updates reduce noise and vibration, suspension alterations improve ride comfort, and that larger front brakes increase stopping power. Kia is owned by Hyundai and both South Korean automakers share warranty coverage: 5-years/60,000-mi. basic, 10/100,000 powertrain, 5 years/unlimited roadside assistance.

COMPETITION

Honda Civic continues to be the car to beat with a wide range of bodystyles, engines, and equipment. Civic is a solid car that has good performance, a nice ride, and a high degree of civility. Also a Best Buy, Ford Focus doesn't offer the refinement of the Civic, but doesn't cost as much either.

Topping the crowded Recommended list are Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. They easily could be Best Buys. However, they are among the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the redesigned but still reliable Toyota Corolla, the sporty Nissan Sentra, and the roomy Mazda Protege. Each of these is a valid alternative to a Best Buy if price is your major concern.