2006 Kia Rio: Tester's Comments
Archived Review
2006 Kia Rio ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $10,770 -$14,595
- Invoice: $10,350 -$13,850
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Kia Rio
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2006 Kia Rio. See if the 2006 Kia Rio is right for you.
Vehicle Evaluated
| Make/Model: | 2006 Kia Rio |
|---|---|
| Trim Level: | LX |
| Arrival Date: | 12/15/2005 |
| Engine: | dohc I4 |
| Bodystyle | 4-door sedan |
| Transmission: | 5-speed manual |
| 4WD/AWD: | No |
| Base Price: | 12,445 |
| Price as Tested: | 13,055 |
| Mileage at Beginning of Test: | 3115 |
| Mileage at End of Test: | 3456 |
| Total Measured Miles: | 341 |
| Total Fuel Used: | 12.545 gals. |
| Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: | 27.18 mpg (what's this?) |
| Problems During Test: | None |
Advertisement
Major Options
Floor Mats
From the Back Seat
Mark Bilek
At a touch over $13,000, our test Rio was an impressive subcompact. It offers room for four, adequate acceleration, good fuel economy, above average road manners, and a large trunk. It would make the perfect commuter car or a great first car for someone just starting out. Kudos to Kia for keeping the price low, but why offer six standard airbags and make antilock brakes an option?
Rick Cotta
The Rio LX is quite capable, fairly accommodating, and nicely equipped for the price. It lacks the room and refinement of the class-leading Honda Civic, but if you can make good use of Kia's long warranty (that beyond 5/50 isn't transferable to a second owner), it can represent a great value.
Vehicle Evaluated
| Make/Model: | 2006 Kia Rio |
|---|---|
| Trim Level: | Rio5 SX |
| Arrival Date: | 11/23/2005 |
| Engine: | dohc I4 |
| Bodystyle | 4-door hatchback |
| Transmission: | 4-speed automatic |
| 4WD/AWD: | No |
| Base Price: | 14,350 |
| Price as Tested: | 15,960 |
| Mileage at Beginning of Test: | 2614 |
| Mileage at End of Test: | 2976 |
| Total Measured Miles: | 362 |
| Total Fuel Used: | 15.729 gals. |
| Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: | 23.01 mpg (what's this?) |
| Problems During Test: | None |
Advertisement
Major Options
Antilock Brakes, Power Package (power windows, power mirrors, tweeter speakers, power door locks w/keyless remote), Carpeted floor mats
From the Back Seat
John Biel
Our "fully loaded" Rio5 (with optional power accessories package, ABS, and floor mats) came to $15,960. That's full-sticker price--before any negotiating--with delivery. It won't provide thrilling motoring--unless your thrills come from a manageable purchase price, a lengthy warranty, and fuel mileage in the high 20s even with lots of city driving.
Kirk Bell
I was ready to be impressed with the Rio5 as a good deal at $12,000. Then I looked at the Monroney. At $16K, I just don't see the value. There are any number of Mazda3s, Ford Focuses, Chevy Cobalts, Hyundai Elantras, Kia Spectras, or good used cars I'd recommend before this car.
Rick Cotta
A bit ragged around the edges compared to top rivals, the Rio is nonetheless a good value--particularly if you plan to keep the car a long time, thus taking advantage of the lengthy warranty.
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
