2009 Kia Rio5

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Exterior - What the Auto Press Says

To reviewers, the Rio5 looks sharper than its namesake sedan, with many saying the hatchback's appeal is in the sum of its parts. Car and Driver is a fan of the 5's "tall bumper with black plastic whiskers protruding on either side" for adding "a sense of aggressiveness." To Cars.com, the Rio5's best feature is its "black mesh grille and swept-back headlights." In addition to its rear hatch fifth door, the Rio5 differs from the sedan's base model by providing a body-color spoiler, fog lights and 15-inch aluminum wheels.

• "It's no great beauty, but it does have a fetching joie de vivre."  -- Los Angeles Times
• "the five-door's added rear hatch, body-color spoiler, and 15-inch aluminum wheels give it downright sporty stance." -- Car and Driver
• "There is nothing wimpy looking about either of the Kia Rio models. ... Despite significantly more carrying capacity (and identical passenger room), the Rio5 hatchback is 8.8 inches shorter than the sedan; for the record, it's an inch and a quarter shorter than even the Hyundai Accent Coupe. We think that gives the Rio5 a trim and sporty look." --New Car Test Drive