We say The old Rio is not as good as many competitors and not especially competitive on price.Performance 1.4-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel are both fine in town but the diesel performs better on the motorway.Emissions 62mpg and 119g/km on the diesel make it the Rio to select if running costs are an issue. The 1.4 petrol can return 47mpg.Driving Smooth ride, but Rio’s traction is a little lacking into corners; the Kia supermini should be easy to drive in the city though.Feel The Rio diesel cruises OK but the petrol model doesn't like to be pushed.Space There’s room for four comfortably in the Rio but the boot is rather small at 270 litres.Equipment Aircon, electric front windows and CD are standard.Price The Rio offers cheap running costs and reasonable list prices.Quality The Rio looks and feels cheap inside. Limited but sturdy engines.Safety ISOFIX fittings and airbags are standard with stability control on higher specs. Four stars out of five in Euro NCAP crash tests.Pros Cheap, decent diesel engine, reasonable value for money.Cons Cheap interiors and skimps on safety kit.Alternatives Daihatsu Charade, Fiat Panda, Fia Punto
