Is the Kia Rio SX a good car?

Is the Kia Rio SX a good car?

Cars.com notes the “chrome dashboard accents” of the Rio SX. The 2009 Kia Rio is no racer, but its fuel economy, steering, and road manners are all quite good. The 2009 Kia Rio doesn’t offer outstanding performance—but it’s certainly better than expected.

What kind of crash protection does a Kia Rio have?

Kia scores four- and five-star ratings for crash protection in the 2009 Rio and Rio5, but side-impact protection lags with a three-star rating for passenger side protection. Six airbags—including side, curtain, and dual front airbags—are standard, while anti-lock brakes are optional.

What are the features of a 2009 Kia Rio?

Six airbags—including side, curtain, and dual front airbags—are standard, while anti-lock brakes are optional. While the base model of the Rio comes with few features, the 2009 Kia Rio LX models have a CD stereo, and they offer a Power Package that includes power locks, mirrors, and windows; keyless entry; and heated mirrors.

How much horsepower does a Kia Rio have?

According to Edmunds, “Every 2009 Kia Rio is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-4 with 110 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque.” Unfortunately, Car and Driver complains that it takes the 2009 Kia Rio “11.5 seconds to run to 60 mph, which certainly doesn’t win any awards.”

The Rio SX versions have specific tires and suspension settings, and feel slightly more sporting. The brakes seem strong, but the Rio’s manual shift linkage can feel imprecise. Engine noise is a problem, too.

What are the specs of a 2008 Kia Rio?

On the Rio5, a fairly large cargo area tucks beneath the hatchback. While the base model is fairly unadorned, the 2008 Kia Rio LX models have a CD stereo, and they offer a Power Package that includes power locks, mirrors, and windows; keyless entry; and heated mirrors. The SX version gets sport tuning for its suspension, fog lights, and a spoiler.

What kind of steering does a Kia Rio have?

Both models have rack-and-pinion, speed-sensitive steering. “Steering is light in the Kia Rio,” but “the Rio is delightfully nimble in urban environments, tracks adeptly on straightaways and is easy to guide into turns,” in Kelley Blue Book’s opinion.

What kind of transmission does a Kia Rio have?

The 2008 Kia Rio’s manual transmission is an appealing choice for those wanting a sporty vehicle, and Edmunds says, “As expected, the manual transmission makes the Rio more sprightly and fun to drive,” noting that “a five-speed manual transmission is standard across the board, while a four-speed automatic is optional on all but the base sedan.”

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