Redesigned 2018 Kia Rio Starts at $14,795

Kia has announced pricing for its redesigned 2018 Rio subcompact sedan and hatchback. The base LX trim will start at $14,795 for the sedan and $15,095 for the hatchback, including $895 destination charge. The mid-grade S trim sedan starts at $16,995 and the hatchback at $17,295. The range-topping EX sedan and hatchback start at $19,295 and $19,595, respectively. The starting price of the new Rio is lower compared to the outgoing model.

Kia gave the new Rio a tech upgrade with an available 7.0-inch touchscreen display and UVO3 voice recognition infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Additional tech features include Bluetooth hands-free functionality, satellite radio, and a rearview camera.

Safety has been improved with the Autonomous Emergency Braking driver assist safety feature that comes standard on the EX trim, a first for the Rio and a rare feature in the subcompact segment. The 2018 Kia Rio has yet to be crash tested but the automaker is aiming for the highest five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS.

The 1.6-liter I-4 engine is a carryover but has been enhanced to provide better fuel efficiency and improved throttle response and now produces 130 hp and 119 lb-ft of torque. The enhancements worked on the fuel efficiency front with the Rio now delivering an EPA-rated 28/37 mpg city/highway compared to the outgoing model’s 27/36 mpg. A six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual are the available transmission choices.

“This fourth-generation Rio makes significant improvements over its predecessor in design, technology and passenger comfort, resulting in an even better value proposition, while raising the bar in the small-car segment,” said Orth Hedrick, Vice President of Product Planning, Kia Motors America, in a release.

With an almost identical starting price to the Rio’s, the Ford Fiesta sedan and hatchback come standard with a 1.6-liter I-4 that produces 120 hp and 112 lb-ft of torque. The Honda Fit hatchback starts higher at $17,065 and packs a 130-hp, 114-lb-ft 1.5-liter I-4. Starting at just $12,875, the Nissan Versa sedan is the most affordable in the segment, but the Versa Note hatchback starts significantly higher at $16,365. Both models come powered by a 1.6-liter I-4 that produces 109 hp and 107 lb-ft.

Expect to see the 2018 Kia Rio at dealerships beginning early next month.

Source: Kia

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