2008 Kia Rio5 [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 28 Rio5 reviews and test drives.
Kia Rio5 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Kia Rio5 ranks 3 out of 12 Affordable Compact Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 28 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Rio5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Rio5 has a great safety package, decent fuel economy and an outstanding warranty. However, several necessary features are offered only as options.
The 2008 Kia Rio5 walks a fine line. Although its powertrain is not especially strong, it still performs capably; and though its standard features are extremely basic, they're outfitted in quality materials. Considering the wagon also has six standard air bags and a lengthy warranty, reviews describe the Rio5 as a pleasing overall package. According to Car and Driver, "Like finding a dollar bill in your bag of Fritos, it won't change your life but it's a pleasant surprise."
The Kia Rio5 comes in two trims, the LX and the SX, and is the wagon counterpart to the Kia Rio sedan. Both cars are built on the same platform as Hyundai's Accent. For 2008 the Rio5 is little changed from the previous year, though Kia has added a new trim.
- "I've just finished a very enjoyable week with a Rio5 SX. It had some key options that really did enhance convenience, safety, and the driving experience, and added merely a $1200 premium. For the 'bang for the buck' factor, the Rio5 is hard to beat." -- The Auto Channel
- "This smallest of Kias offers hatchback utility plus a bit of fun at rock-bottom prices." -- Car and Driver
- "The new Rio…is an unexpected treat, like finding a pair of Ferragamo loafers on the clearance rack at the off-price store." -- New York Times
- "An ingenious little buggy." -- U.S. News
- "It's attractive, reasonably roomy, and surprisingly fun. Consider the suspicions well founded." -- Automobile Magazine
Rio5 Performance - 7.4 (Good)
Experts say the Kia Rio5's performance is sufficient for its size. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman reports, "The four-cylinder engine is tiny -- but the Rio5 squeezes the most out of every single one of its 110 horsepower." Car and Driver adds, "the Rio5 surprised us by finishing third in a seven-car econocar comparison test, posting the best stopping distance and ranking second in our handling tests." Still the 5's performance score is mid-pack in a class that includes the Mazda5 or Subaru Impreza Wagon. Our full Performance Review gives a run-down of the Rio5's road demeanor and how it compares to its class. continue
Rio5 Exterior - 7.9 (Good)
The handsome five-door Rio5 gets its highest ranking in the exterior category. According to the Los Angeles Times, "it does have a fetching joie de vivre." Check out the Kia Rio5 Photo Gallery for images of the Rio5, or continue with our full Exterior Review for more reviewer comments on the sheetmetal. continue
Rio5 Interior - 7.1 (Good)
The 2008 Kia Rio5's interior is a compromise, and places near the bottom of the affordable compact wagon class. Although its five seats are comfortable, they're squeezed into tight quarters, and though features are scarce, those present are quality. The Kia Rio5 Photo Gallery gives a better understanding of the Rio5's features and seating, while our full Interior Review provides information on the car's cargo capacity and storage options. continue
Rio5 Safety - 8.5 (Very Good)
The 2008 Kia Rio5 does very well in federal government crash tests, and provides an expansive list of standard safety equipment. Continue with our full Safety Review for more information on the Rio5's safety features. continue
Rio5 Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Kia Rio5 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Rio5 is covered by a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty. Our full Reliability Review gives information on Kia's powertrain coverage. continue
