Thursday, December 1, 2011
2009 KIA RIO AND RIO5
Kia Motors’ Rio sedan and Rio5 five-door have collected a number of awards and accolades. Acclaimed as a “Best Bet in the Sub Compact Category” by The Car Book 2007, a “Top 10 Most Fuel Efficient Car ” and “Editors’ Most Wanted – Sedan/Wagon Under $15,000” by Edmunds.com and a “Best Buy” by Consumer Guide, editors highlight the entry-level vehicle’s exciting handling, fuel efficiency and solid build. New for 2009, Rio and Rio5 offers hours of listening enjoyment with a new AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service, standard on all models 1. LX and SX models also will get a USB port alongside the auxiliary audio input jack in the front center console (introduced in 2008).
Quick and Nimble
Available in base, LX and SX trims, all vehicles in the Rio lineup feature a 1.6-liter DOHC four-cylinder CVVT engine, which produces a peppy 110 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with either the standard five-speed manual transmission or the optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission – available for LX and SX trims – Rio and Rio5 overpower the likes of segment competitors Chevrolet Aveo and Toyota Yaris. An independent front suspension featuring MacPherson struts, coil springs and a stabilizer bar combined with a semi-independent rear suspension provide responsive handling for all driving situations. The engine-speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering system adds balanced control to create a smooth, comfortable ride for the short trip or the long haul (LX and SX models).
