2023 Kia Rio vs. 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI | NewCars.com

2023 Kia Rio vs. 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI Review

Picture of the 2023 Kia Rio

2023 Kia
Rio

MSRP*: $17,690
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Picture of the 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI

2023 Volkswagen
Golf GTI

MSRP*: $33,055 to $33,855
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MPG - City 32 MPG 23 - 24 MPG
MPG - Hwy 41 MPG 32 - 34 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space Info not available Info not available
Engine
  • 120-hp, 1.6-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 241-hp, 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Continuously Variable Automatic, Manual
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Front Wheel Drive
Horsepower 120 hp 241 hp
Exterior Length 160.0 in 168.8 in
Exterior Width 67.9 in 70.4 in
Leg Room Front 42.1 in
Rear 33.5 in
Front 41.2 in
Rear 35.0 in
Head Room Front 38.9 in
Rear 38.0 in
Front 38.5 in
Rear 38.1 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
Passengers in the back seat will be able to stretch out a lot more in the Volkswagen Golf GTI than the Kia Rio, due to its greater head- and legroom. Offering just a little more front head- and legroom than the Volkswagen Golf GTI, the Kia Rio may be a little roomier and more comfortable for the driver and front seat passengers.

Convenience
The Kia Rio will require fewer stops at the gas station than the Volkswagen Golf GTI, making it more convenient to drive.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Based on MSRP, the Kia Rio is clearly a better financial choice over the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

Dimensions
Since the Kia Rio is much slimmer than the Volkswagen Golf GTI, it'll be much easier to find a wide enough space in a crowded parking lot. If you go with the Kia Rio, you'll have a much easier time finding a large enough space to park than you will with the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

Handling
The Kia Rio has a smaller turning radius than the Volkswagen Golf GTI, allowing you to more easily maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Kia Rio is significantly less powerful than the Volkswagen Golf GTI. The good news is that, reportedly, cars with lower horsepower engines often have lower insurance premiums.

Powertrain
The Kia Rio has much less torque than the Volkswagen Golf GTI, which generally means that it won't feel as fast or powerful.

Utility
In terms of seating you'll be able to fit the same number of people in both the Kia Rio and the Volkswagen Golf GTI.