2020 Kia Rio: Value Powerhouse
What do our experts think of the 2020 Kia Rio? We look at powertrain, interior options, trim levels and more. Find out our thoughts here.
What’s New for the 2020 Kia Rio?
As the automakers’ simplest (read: cheapest) offering, the 2020 Kia Rio keeps it basic, but still good, in this fourth-gen iteration. Riding on all-new platform as of 2018, the Rio faces off with the likes of Nissan’s Versa, which we review here.
The 2020 Rio steps fuel efficiency up considerably by way of a lower output engine and newly added CVT. And by considerably, we’re talking about an 18% improvement in city driving and 11% on the highway. The other big news is that a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now standard lineup-wide.
2020 Kia Rio – kiamedia.com | Shop 2020 Kia Rio on Carsforsale.com
The Breakdown
Very cheap
Styling belies price
Tremendous gas mileage
A single active driver aid
Steel wheels only
No more manual option
Low-cost goodness
2020 Rio Specs
- 120 horsepower from base engine
- 112 lb-ft of torque from base engine
- 3 available trims
- 13.7 cu-ft of cargo capacity
- Standard smartphone mirroring tech
- Available automated emergency braking
- 5 years of roadside assistance included
2020 Kia Rio Powertrain
New this year, the 2020 Kia Rio is fitted with the second generation 1.6L four-cylinder engine from the company’s Gamma series. It works with multi-point injection versus the previous direct fuel injection setup, meaning gas is now squirted into the intake manifold as opposed to the cylinder. Additionally, the 6-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions are both dropped in favor of a CVT. Combined, the new powertrain configuration boosts fuel economy between 10 and 18 percent.
The other side of that coin is a reduction of 10 horsepower, for a total of 120 to go with the 112 lb-ft of torque. Interestingly, this seems to be a theme. As we point out in this list of Best Commuter Cars For Under $5,000, the 2012 Kia Rio was producing 138 horsepower.
That being said, nobody is mistaking the Rio for a dragster, so this nominal drop in output will likely be glossed over given the relatively huge bump in efficiency. In fact, as a desirable commuter car, the Rio performs just fine with four-corner independent suspension keeping things planted and given the feathery 2,700-pound curb weight, it should offer a modicum of agility in the twisties.
2020 Kia Rio Fuel Economy & MPG
Fuel economy has always been the Rio’s strong point, one that is seriously strengthened for 2020. Last year, the Rio was rated for 28 mpg in city driving and 37 on the highway (bump the city figure by 1 mpg for manual-equipped cars). This year, those number balloon to 33 and 41 mpg, respectively, besting the Nissan Versa in both categories. Much of this is due to the overhauled powertrain smoothing things out, which helps the 2020 Kia Rio earn a spot on our list of Top 10 Most Fuel-Efficient Cars this year.
Interior, Comfort, & Cargo Space
As the Kia Rio is a supermini, or subcompact, car, you can expect a smallish cabin that is all about compromises. Rear legroom measures 34-inches, while a Nissan Versa tops out at just 31. On the other hand, the Versa has an extra cubic foot of cargo space in the trunk versus the Rio in sedan spec. Then again, should you spring for the Rio hatchback, you’ll be greeted with up to 33 cubes of interior storage space, nearly 20 more than the sedan. These are the compromises you’ll have to work through.
Wondering about the differences between a sedan, coupe, 5-door, hatchback, and other vehicular nomenclature? Check out our article on how these various body styles differ.
Regardless of which Rio body style you go with, this is a 5-passenger car that, though basic, has a pleasantly refined interior. Touches like matte silver-finished door handles, textured hard plastic trim, and the combination woven cloth-tricot seat coverings help in this regard. Of course, at this price point, don’t expect to find such niceties as heated seats, automatic climate control, or a sunroof.
Entertainment & Technology
Considering the low entry price of a 2020 Kia Rio, it’s nice to find Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring tech as standard software. Controlled by a 7-inch central touchscreen display, the Rio also comes with Bluetooth connectivity and two USB ports on S models. Considering that price point, its perhaps unsurprising that tech like a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless phone charging are unavailable.
There is an optional package on the two top trim lines that adds such upgrades as the supervision digital gauge cluster, Sirius satellite radio, and UVO3. That last item is a Microsoft-based system that allows for voice-activation of phone calls and music.
Safety Features
The only advanced driver-assistance system to be found on a 2020 Rio is forward collision warning with automated emergency braking and it is part of an optional package. However, this subcompact does come loaded with dual front-row airbags for frontal and side impacts as well as full-length curtain airbags. During the 2018 overhaul, it also received a healthy dose of advanced high-strength steel throughout. All of which adds up to a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS.
2020 Kia Rio Trims & Pricing
LX Sedan – $16,815
Only offered in sedan form, base Kia Rio LX models come with 15-inch steel wheels and hubcaps, heated side mirrors, and body-colored bumpers, door handles and mirror caps. On that note, there is one optional paint finish – Aurora Black for an extra $195. Cabin amenities include power windows and locks, a tilt-adjustable steering column, cloth upholstery, and air conditioning. On the tech front, you’ll find a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen embedded with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto software.
S Sedan – $17,455
Conveniences like keyless entry with trunk release are unlocked on S models. The upgrades continue inside with a center console featuring a sliding armrest and storage bin, split-fold rear seat, and additional USB port for rear passengers. For $800, you can select the Technology package to add FCW with AEB, LED headlights, and the Supervision instrument panel screen.
S Hatchback – $17,755
If you have your eye on a 2020 Kia Rio in hatchback form, this is your trim. Along with the increased cargo space and a smidge more passenger volume, the 5-door S model has a rear windshield wiper, adjustable rear headrests, and dual front cupholders. Like its sedan brother, you can add on the Technology package but standard equipment does include a sunglass holder, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, and bottle holders on all four doors.
Warranties
As ever, Kia shines in the warranty department thanks to a 10-year/100,000-mile term for the powertrain. The basic vehicle coverage runs for five years or 60,000 miles as does 24/7 roadside assistance. However, there is no complimentary factory-scheduled maintenance available.
What we think
2020 Kia Rio – kiamedia.com | Shop 2020 Kia Rio on Carsforsale.com
Are there certain features that would be nice to have on the 2020 Kia Rio? Yes, of course heated seats, a sunroof, and Wi-Fi hotspot would be improvements. However, when you look over the price tags of all three models and consider everything that comes with that, it truly is stuffed with value. And let’s not forget it is rated for 41 mpg on the highway, good for nearly 500 miles!
You can cross-shop the Rios’ fraternal-twin Hyundai Accent, but as we find in this comparison, the Rio is better. If there is no room in your budget, a base LX sedan will be plenty adequate, but if you can wring an extra $940 out of it, spring for the hatchback with its larger interior space and, in my humble opinion, better looks.
