Few subcompacts provide a high level of acceleration with the little that they're given. But the 2017 KIA Rio manages to do so. Although subcompacts are not necessarily known for their quickness on the road, the Rio has a respectable 0-60 mph time with its small yet peppy engine-an engine that is not even turbocharged. Its size works to its advantage; you'd not have a problem making turns, switching from one lane to the other, or make your way through dense areas with this vehicle. Thanks to a sedan body style with the trunk space of a hatchback, the Rio offers interior space that is more than that of many other subcompacts. And the Rio is backed by a hefty warranty program that includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. 

The KIA Rio is completely redesigned for the 2017 model year to kick off the car's fourth production cycle. The Rio is now leaner and meaner-with a larger hood, a more upright C-pillar, and longer front overhangs. It is also longer, wider, and shorter than ever before. Trim-wise, the SX is gone, thus moving up the EX to top-dog status. 

The starting MSRP range of the 2017 Rio is $14,165 for the LX and $17,755 for the EX. Based on its previous, third-generation incarnations, the Rio has always been highly regarded as a top-quality vehicle. J.D. Power rates it 4/5 in Overall Quality, 4/5 in Overall Performance and Design, and 3.5/5 in Predicted Reliability. Overview: The 2017 Rio is the inaugural model year for the nameplate's fourth generation of production. It comes in two trims: the base-level LX and the upper-level EX. 

Powering the 2017 KIA Rio is a 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that provides 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. The LX is linked to a 6-speed manual transmission, while the EX has the advantage of a more convenient electronically-controlled 6-speed automatic transmission with a Sportmatic® shifter for manual gear shifting. (The automatic gearbox is optional on the LX.) Using a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, the Rio provides a fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. An all-wheel independent suspension with stabilizer bars and gas-pressured shock absorbers keeps rides smooth and bump-free, motor-driven power steering ensures sharp and precise handling, and all-wheel anti-lock disc brakes keep distances short and the wheels from locking up when stopping. With seating for up to five people, the Rio comes with 88.4 cubic feet of passenger volume, as well as 13.7 cubic feet of trunk space for luggage, with the option of expanding it by folding down the rear seats. For a more luxurious feel, you can go with the EX model, which gives you the option of choosing a two-tone cloth-and-leather seat trim with gray accent stitching. For entertainment, the 2017 Rio has a four-speaker stereo system on the LX and six-speaker stereo system on the EX; each set-up comes with a CD player with MP3 playback capability, an AM/FM radio tuner, and SiriusXM satellite radio service. Further additions on the EX include cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone operation and audio streaming, and an Active Eco system for shutting down certain functions to boost fuel economy. You also have the option of adding a rearview camera, an engine start-stop system to cut down on engine idling, a 4.3-inch color touchscreen for audio information display, and UVO in-car connectivity. Two front impact airbags, two front seat-mounted side impact airbags, and two front and two rear side curtain airbags keep you protected in the event of a car crash. Other safety Rio features include electronic vehicle stability to maximize appropriate response to loss of control or traction, hill start assist control to prevent rollover when shifting from Park to Drive when on a hill, and electronic brake-force distribution for more efficient management of braking pressure when needed. 

In its Michigan KIA Rio review of the 2017 model year, Rio's manufacturer described the new car with one single trademarked word: "FUNctional™." This is to emphasize the vehicle's ability to provide thrills on the road with a high level of practicality. Quick acceleration, lively handling, good projected reliability, and a spacious interior are the new Rio's hallmarks. Ready to check out the vehicle for yourself and get 2017 Rio Quotes? At Glassman Auto Group, the ultimate 2017 KIA Rio Detroit dealership, we pride ourselves on serving residents of the region with years of research and expertise on all things KIA. Give us a call today to set up an appointment.