2008 Kia Rio5 Safety Review [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 30 Rio5 reviews and test drives.
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Kia Rio5 does very well in federal government crash tests, and provides an expansive list of standard safety equipment.
In the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's crash tests, the Rio5 earned four out of five stars for driver protection in front impact crashes, and five out of five stars for front passenger protection. The Rio5 earned four out of five stars for front seat occupant protection in side impact crashes, and three out of five stars for backseat occupant protection. In private testing, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2008 Kia Rio, the Rio5's sedan version, the second-highest rating, "Acceptable," for front impact crashes, but the lowest rating, "Poor," for side impact crashes.
Accident Avoidance
To help drivers avoid accidents, all Rio5s have power-assisted vented front disc and rear drum brakes. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with rear discs are optional.
Crash Protection
Autobytel explains that "safety doesn't necessarily have to be expensive…as evidenced by the … impressive list of standard features designed to protect you and your passengers" in the 2008 Rio5. All the wagons come with dual front advanced air bags, front seat-mounted air bags, and side air bags for front and back rows -- "features you typically have to pay extra for on many competitors," the Detroit News says.