Almost as fast as subcompact cars hit the market, it seems that most of them are disappearing. The Kia Rio may be one of the few economically-priced subcompact hatchbacks left on the market.

The Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, and Chevy Sonic are no longer in production, which has people worried that these kinds of vehicles won’t come back. Luckily, the Kia Rio isn’t going anywhere. More importantly, each new model only gets better and better.

How is the Kia Rio? Here’s what you need to know;

The Basics

The Kia Rio has been on the road since 2016, so it’s not exactly new, but it is still exciting. This hatchback is not only the smallest vehicle in the Kia lineup; it’s also the least expensive. The Rio is now in its fourth generation, although it received a significant refresh in 2021.

The Kia Rio starts with an MSRP of only $17,275 for the sedan version. Add $1,000 to make this beauty a hatchback. It only comes in one trim (the S model), but other options to upgrade and customize your ride. The technology package, for example, is only an extra $1800 or so.

What’s Under the Hood?

The Kia Rio is loaded with a pretty impressive 1.6-liter engine that creates 120 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque paired with a continuously variable transmission. The latest engine is a little less powerful than what used to be in the Rio, but what it lost in power in gained in efficiency.

This small hatchback can now earn a solid 33 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. This is much better than the 28/37 mpg on the previous model. This car can also hit 60 mph in just 8.6 seconds.

Practical Storage

One of the biggest benefits of owning the hatchback version of the Rio is the increased cargo room. While the entire vehicle only measures 160 inches from front to back, its ample space in the back. The wider opening makes loading and unloading your gear easier than using a regular sedan trunk.

The rear seats even fold down to ensure you get extra storage. Of course, keep those seats up to make room for two adults in the back.

The Technology Package

Since the Technology Package is only about $1800, it’s completely worth considering with this hatchback. This add-on offer gives you plenty of awesome features while keeping the overall price attractively low.

Here are just some of the features of the Technology Package

• LED headlights
• Push-button start
• 2.4-inch driver information display
• Automatic climate control
• Upgraded sound system
• And more

The Technology Package also comes with a suite of driver-assist safety technology geared to give you the peace of mind you might not expect from a compact car.

• Forward collision mitigation
• Lane departure warning
• Lane keeping assist
• Lane follow assist
• Driver attention warning

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been looking for a budget-friendly hatchback that doesn’t skimp on convenience, comfort, and safety features, the Kia Rio is a fantastic choice. More importantly, it’s one of the only options still in production. When other compacts go the way of the Dodo, the Rio stands strong and proud.