Before starting the winter endurance tests, we decided to equip the Kia Rio already familiar from previous publications (5 Koleso No. 8 and 9, 2007) with additional equipment: we installed the Alligator SM-4300 security system and the Prology MCE-515U head unit. In addition to testing the devices themselves, there was another goal. After the speedometer failed in the summer due to dirt getting on poorly protected contacts after a month of use, we wanted to once again verify the reliability of the car's electrical system. To be fair, I note that in winter the Rio caused no more trouble. It started instantly even in severe frosts. And throughout the entire winter period it never let us down—neither the wiring nor other systems, including the new equipment.
The only thing that can be reproached about the alarm is its excessive functionality. It's a joke, but there is a grain of truth in every joke. To understand the settings of 27 programmable parameters, I had to study a thick manual. Women far from technical sciences will find it difficult. But the result is worth it!
The Prology radio with an output power of 4x55 W also did not disappoint and fit organically into the Rio's interior. The slots for SD/MMC cards, USB input, and built-in buffer memory were pleasing. To be honest, the Rio's acoustic comfort is not great: engine noise and suspension knocks penetrate the cabin quite noticeably. However, installing the CD/MP3 receiver not only allowed us to cover the car's working noises but also achieve quite acceptable sound clarity.
As for the Kia Rio itself, during the winter tests only two drawbacks were found that did not manifest in summer. The rear side window defrosting is clearly not designed for severe cold. At temperatures below –12°C, they either freeze or constantly fog up. In addition, braking efficiency noticeably decreases in frost, so before driving off it is worth braking sharply several times to warm them up.
2007 Kia Rio
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso
But the Rio's handling did not let us down. Before winter, we fitted it with non-studded Dunlop Graspic DS-2 tires and did not regret it. Yes, due to the rather stiff suspension on broken winter roads, the Rio's character can be somewhat sharp. Especially when leaving a rut or hitting small bumps. But on slippery surfaces, the car holds confidently, is completely predictable, obedient, and precise in control. There are no complaints about the ABS operation. The only thing is that engine braking in winter is slightly marred by the too-long travel of the 5-speed manual gearbox lever.
But these are all trifles. Based on the results of the winter endurance tests, the little Rio deserved not an A, but a solid B. Demonstrating unexpectedly strong immunity to typical winter ailments and receiving a "good" on all other points, Kia proved that it fully justifies the "motto" of its future owners. RIO: reliability investment optimization!
Driving
2007 Kia Rio
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso
On slippery and snowy roads, it behaves a bit nervously, but is absolutely predictable.
Interior
The interior is spacious, but the trunk is not very capacious.
Comfort
The seats are comfortable, and there is a driver's armrest. The suspension is stiff and rather noisy.
Safety
Four Euro NCAP stars for passenger protection. It's a pity that the Russian version lacks ESP.
Price
Slightly overpriced, although overall it fits within its class.
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Excellent acceleration dynamics at high revs, enviable handling.
- Requires hard braking to warm up, not very effective rear side window defrosting, lack of ESP.
Specifications
Make and model - Kia Rio 1.4
Dimensions - 3990x1695x1470 mm
Engine - petrol, 1339 cm3, 97 hp/6000 rpm
Transmission - manual, 5-speed
Dynamics - max 177 km/h; 12.3 s to 100 km/h
Competitors - Hyundai Accent, Skoda Fabia, Opel Corsa
Our opinion
A reliable, solid, and moderately dynamic city car with an attractive modern design. It does not create unnecessary problems during operation in Russian winter conditions. An excellent choice for those who want to finally switch from domestic cars to a foreign one.