The sporty and incredibly fuel-efficient 2010 Kia Rio5 four-door hatchback comes with more standard equipment than the Rio sedan and offers a few extra perks for 2010.
Kia’s representation in the subcompact segment is the Rio5, which is available in LX and SX trims. A 110-horsepower, 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission with an available four-speed automatic transmission powers the 2010 Kia Rio5. EPA estimated fuel economy ratings are stellar, ranging between 26-27 mpg in the city and 33-25 mpg on the highway, depending on which transmission you choose.
The Kia Rio5 is a worthy competitor to Chevrolet Aveo, Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris in fuel economy alone and receives minor enhancements for 2010, including a revised front grille and front and rear bumpers. Side-mirror-mounted turn signals and a tire pressure monitoring system are now available. New options include a second front power outlet and Bluetooth capability. An EcoMinder signal glows green when you’re driving efficiently.
Perched atop 14- or 15-inch steel wheels, the 2010 Kia Rio5 offers few standard exterior features, like auto-off headlamps, but plenty of options, which include heated power mirrors, a rear spoiler and fog lamps. Inside, the steering wheel and shift knob in the SX are wrapped in leather and a four-speaker stereo with a CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, speed-sensitive power steering and air conditioning are standard equipment.
Options include steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and MP3 capability. An optional power package adds full power accessories, keyless entry and tweeter speakers. In addition, 16-inch alloy wheels are available for the SX. With the 60/40-split bench rear seats lowered, the 2010 Kia Rio5 offers up to 49.6 cubic feet of cargo volume.
Last year in government frontal-impact crash testing, the Kia Rio5 scored four stars (out of five) for driver protection and five stars for passenger protection. In its side-impact test, the Rio earned four stars for front-occupant protection and three stars for the rear. The 2010 Kia Rio5’s standard safety offerings include side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags and child-safety locks. Antilock brakes with rear discs on LX and SX models are optional.
If you’re looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient car for everyday driving, look no further than the 2010 Kia Rio5.