2006 Kia Rio – What We Deserve!

by Judy Gell

I remember when Kia first began advertising their Sephia. They said everyone "deserves" a well built car. Still not considered a high end automotive company, I am impressed with the improvement in Kia automobiles and the value for cost of their vehicles. I have nothing to complain about or criticize after test driving the 2006 Kia Rio for one week!

Our test Rio was a pleasing Polar Blue color with gray interior. A four door economy drive, it comfortably seats four adults of average size, or carries extra cargo with the 60/40 split folding rear seatback.. Our over sized shepherd-mix farm-dog-who-still-thinks-he's-a-puppy even found enough room to crawl halfway into my lap, between me and the steering wheel, in his eagerness to welcome me home from work. He quickly learns to recognize the sound of each new car we drive and is joyfully waiting to greet us as we turn into the driveway.

Powered by a 1.6 L 16-valve DOHC CVVT 4 cylinder engine with 4 speed automatic transmission, I found all the power I needed for zipping around town or merging and passing on the freeway. With independent front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension, power rack and pinion steering and power front disc/rear drum brakes, the Rio provides a comfortable ride and nimble handling that made it fun for me on our curvy country roads.

Although you might think of some nice features that are not standard on the Rio, there is still everything you need and more. Safety equipment includes dual advanced front airbags, front seat mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front height adjustable seatbelt anchors and the LATCH system for children. The eight-way drivers seat with fold down armrest and the tilt steering column assure safe and comfortable position for the driver. Also standard are variable intermittent front wipers, auto-off headlamps and remote trunk and fuel door releases. Our test drive had the optional power package which included power windows, mirrors and door locks with keyless remote.

My daughter purchased a Kia Spectra several years ago--her very first brand new car. It gave me peace of mind to know that she had 24-hour roadside assistance, and 10 years/100,000 mile limited power train warranty. Her car has been virtually trouble free. She's put a lot of miles on it, but it remains attractive, comfortable and dependable. I feel that Kia's early advertising campaign has proved to be truthful--my daughter, at least, seems to have purchased a well-built car.

The MSRP for the basic Kia Rio is $13,295.00. Ours with the optional power package and carpeted floor mats came to $13,965.00. That's a good value! But when you consider the great offers Kia dealerships are making on trade-ins, and the finance options available, it becomes a great value! The estimated fuel economy is 29 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, adding even more to the value of the Kia Rio!