2018 Kia Rio Calgary Five Door Review

2018 Kia Rio Calgary Five Door Review

Posted on November 23, 2017

The 2018 Kia Rio looks
better than models of previous years, and that's because engineers have
upgraded the sedan with sleeker styling. But the real beauty is the five-door hatchback version featuring a
new look. A wider stance and sportier styling gives it European attitude that's
sleek but aggressive, minus the hefty price tag.

Kia has some serious
competition in the sub-compact car market. Consumers aren't lining up for
subcompacts, so manufacturers are doing their best to entice drivers by
offering stylish small cars loaded with perks for a price that nearly anyone
can afford. There's the Honda Fit, Nissan Micra and Hyundai Accent to name a
few. But what sets the Kia Rio apart from the pack is the improved styling and
materials--all for a great price.

2017 vs. 2018 Kia Rio for
Sale Calgary

Compared to the 2017 Kia
Rio model, the 2018 Kia Rio in Calgary is all new. The changes to the
chassis mean the interior is bigger. The 2018 model includes more tech like
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2018 model's longer wheelbase and
wider stance not only looks great but improves the hatchback's driving
dynamics. 

2018 Kia Rio Calgary Value

How much can Kia pack into
a car that starts at $14,995? More than a driver would think. The
upgrades are apparent in the interior and start with details like softer,
ergonomic plastics that replace the cheaper versions of the previous
years. All five-door hatchback Kia Rio's feature an improved cabin experience with increased
insulation and new one-piece door panels that minimize road noise.

The new centre stack is
easier to use. All the controls are just above the shifter so that a driver can
find everything without having to take their eyes off the road. Below the
centre stack sits an organizational bin that can hold a phone, pocket change
and other small items. A 12-volt outlet and USB port are located just above the
bin. 

The centrepiece of the new
dash is a colour display that appears to float. The touchscreen looks and
functions more like a tablet than a car infotainment system.

More Room for Cargo.

The smart hatchback design
means that the rear opening is wider and easier to load. A cargo privacy cover
hides everything from view. Dropping the rear seats down adds space for larger
or bulkier items.

Kia Rio Body Colours and Wheel Options 15-inch steel wheels are
standard but wheel upgrades include 15-inch alloy rims for the EX trim level
and 17-inch sport alloys on the EX Sport and Tech trim levels. There are six
paint colours for 2018, of which Ice Blue is new.
 
The 2018 Kia Rio
five-door hatchback is an affordable subcompact that has a little touch of
sporty edge to it. Upgrading to the EX is worth the small increase in
price.