2009 Kia Rio

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Safety - What the Auto Press Says

Although most auto writers praise Kia for its safety features, the 2009 Rio only receives moderate safety scores in government and insurance industry crash tests.

Crash Tests

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives the Rio four out of a possible five stars for the driver's protection in front crashes, five stars for a front passenger's protection in front crashes, four stars for a driver's protection in a side impact crashes, and three stars for the rear passengers' protection in side crashes. The 2009 Rio also gets a four-star rollover rating.
• The 2009 Kia Rio earned an "Acceptable" rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's frontal offset tests, but a "Poor" rating in side impact tests.

Safety Features

The Rio compensates for its paltry cabin amenities by offering a full list of standard safety equipment, regardless of trim. In addition to six air bags, Rios have anti-lock brakes and fog lights. Heated outside mirrors are optional.

• "Kia is serious about safety." -- Newsday
• "The Rio's defining feature may be the package of safety gear Kia stitches into each one." -- BusinessWeek
• "Side-impact and side-curtain air bags are standard, making the Rio5 one of the cheapest cars to come with this important safety gear on every model." -- U.S. News
• "Visibility is decent all around in both sedans and hatchbacks." -- Consumer Guide