2014 Kia Rio Review

 

Updates for 2014

The Kia Rio receives some attention for fuel efficiency and aerodynamics. The addition of body, engine, and rear bumper under-covers will improve the flow of air through the vehicle, and improve fuel efficiency. The dashboard also gains an upgrade, with the addition of a visible dash temperature gauge.  Only the base model of the Rio offers manual transmission, leaving you without an automatic transmission option if you want an optional trim upgrade. The styling, fuel efficiency and price point make this a buy for our team at Jack Daniels Kia in Fairlawn, New Jersey.

 

Fuel Efficiency

Powered by a 1.6-liter engine, this car is fuel injected by a 4-cylinder that achieves 123 lb-ft torque. While that is not the power of a sports car, in this light economy car, the performance delivers. The full throated throttle of the Rio can be a bit noisy, but at an impressive 37 mpg highway, this vehicle is a contender for price and efficiency.  For day-to-day driving in city, the average mileage hovers around 27 mpg. The incredible efficiency of this vehicle is helped out by the Eco package that comes standard in all 2014 Kia Rios. The idle, stop and go feature shuts off the engine when in idle and engages the engine once the accelerator is pressed.   

Features and Options

With three trim options the LX, EX and SX, the Kia Rio has a number of options for buyers. The LX includes: a 6-speed manual transmission, 15 inch standard steel wheels, power mirrors, a rear-defroster and heated mirrors, USB auxiliary inputs, audio controls on steering wheel, tilt steering column, a 60/40 rear folding seat.

Rio EX is upgraded with 6-speed automatic, power locks and windows, integrated Bluetooth connectivity, keyless remote entry, premium cloth seats, pillar mounted tweeters.

The SX adds an upgraded suspension for a sportier feel, vented disc brakes, upgraded rear and front headlights, fog lamps, reversing camera, steering wheel shifters, UVO infotainment system upgrade, and power-fold side mirrors with integrated turn signals. The premium package can add navigation, SiriusXM traffic, Smartkey, moonroof, and leather interior with heated seats.

 

Safety

At Jack Daniels Kia we pride ourselves on safety and service, and we expect all vehicles we show to meet our highest expectations, and the 2014 Kia Rio excels in this department. With front, side and rear airbags, and standard ABS brakes and electronic traction and stability control this car sports all the important safety features.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has given the Rio 4 out of 5 for overall safety in a recent review.

On the Road

While small and compact, we were impressed with the way the Kia Rio handles. The low price point, fuel efficiency and excellent safety and marks make this a recommended buy. Test drive a new 2014 Kia Rio, and experience the car for yourself.