Kia Flashes The New Rio In New York

While it’s not the most compelling car out there, the reveal of the 2018 Kia Rio sedan and 5-door models at the New York International Auto Show is still significant. Like it or not, to many people a car is an appliance, a mode of transportation and nothing else. At least if your average Joe or Sally goes with this vehicle, it’s not completely unfortunate looking.

Aside from the signature tiger nose grille, you might notice the back end sits more upright. What you might not realize is the overhangs are shorter, or in other words the wheels sit more toward the corners. This thing might actually handle somewhat decently.

Also, the interior is bigger and more spacious, which in my book is always a big plus, especially with something like the Rio. Kia says the cabin materials are upgraded, which seems to be the trend with the brand lately. The front seats are thinner, but padding is up, because Kia finally figured out nobody liked the old seats.

Supposedly, kids these days only care about onboard technologies in their cars. If that’s the case, they might find something to like with the Rio. You can get one with autonomous emergency braking, a seven-inch touchscreen, UVO3 with voice controls, plus Android Auto/Apple CarPlay compatibility.

You won’t win any street races with the Rio. The Gamma 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder pumps out a measly 130 horsepower and an anemic 119 lb.-ft. of torque.