2005 Kia Rio: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Kia's entry-level compact line is unchanged for 2005. Among the least-expensive cars on the market, Rio comes as a sedan and as a wagon. Kia calls the wagon the Cinco. Both have a 4-cyl engine. Manual transmission is standard, automatic optional. ABS, air conditioning, power windows, and power door locks are optional. Side airbags are unavailable. Power steering, tilt steering wheel, and a CD player are optional on the sedan and standard on the Cinco. 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

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise the smallest passengers cars. These vehicles range from tiny economy models to slightly larger popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons.

Our Best Buys include the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, and Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix twins. Our Recommended picks include the Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Spectra, and Toyota Corolla.