The fourth generation of the Kia Rio starts with the 2018 model, and the newest lineup is one of its best so far.

What’s New

With every new generation, Kia keeps improving their subcompact Rio, and this year they take it to new standards. We will say good-bye to the Rio 5-door as it is discontinued, which means if you want the 5-door model, now is the time to get one! It has been replaced by a hatchback and a sedan version.

Where the 5-door was a bit edgy, the newest hatchback has less edge and more features. Kia says that they have redone 90 per cent of the Rio for this upgrade, so every part of it has been updated or upgraded to the latest technology.

They moved the side mirrors from the doors to the A-pillars, the nose has been painted black for a more serious look, and it has very conventional lines from nose to tail–even though it has a tiger nose grille. While the exterior may be conservative, Kia was not conservative when they loaded the 2018 Kia Rio up with options.

The headlights have been redesigned to accommodate available bi-functioning projection headlights and arrow shaped taillights dress up the rear.

The new Kia Rio is actually larger inside and has a wider wheelbase than before. None of the additional safety equipment and interior design added to the weight. In fact, the car is now lighter, thanks to a change that introduced high-strength steel into the car’s structure. This added rigidity to the frame and improved handling, which is a definite plus in a subcompact car.

Upgrade Inside

The interior of the Kia Rio has been upgraded to keep up with technology. There is a new infotainment system that has all of the latest connections and features that you need to enjoy your driving experience. Available in a 5-inch or 7-inch display, this system is home to everything from your Bluetooth® device to your music playlist.

Kia offers a connectivity device that lets you remotely start your vehicle, operate the door locks, set the interior climate and more. The UVO SmartITself puts your Rio at your fingertips through your smartphone. This technology lets you run diagnosis on your vehicle, find your car in a crowded parking lot and make 911 calls automatically should the airbag go off. It will even give your location to the 911 operator for you.

In addition to all of the technology, the interior fits four and the hatchback cargo space is ample.

Safety features include available autonomous emergency braking and rear view camera.

Other available features include a power sunroof, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto® and a push-button start through your Smart Key.

It’s Still Sporty

Even with all of the new technology and upgrades that Kia added to the 2018 Rio, they never forgot that it is a sporty car to drive, which makes it appealing. They offer 17-inch wheels, paddle shifters, sport pedals, bigger brakes, twin exhaust tips and a sport-tuned suspension for responsive handling. This is where the lightweight rigid frame comes into play.

Since the 2018 Kia Rio has been given a 90 per cent makeover, you might want to come and explore it for yourself. Remember the Rio 5-door is being discontinued, so if you want to test drive one, now is the time. Stop by and see all of the Kia Rio models. We’ll give you the keys.