2020 Kia Rio5 review

1. Refreshed engine setup  

For the 2020 model year, the Rio5 gets an updated drivetrain setup that boosts your ride enjoyment and impresses at the pump too. The intelligent variable automatic transmission ensures seamless and efficient gear shifts, noticeable on winding coastal roads and in stop-start city traffic. Also introduced as new for the 2020 model year is a 1.6L four-cylinder engine that optimizes fuel economy with individual injectors for each of its four cylinders. The overall result is an impressive EPA-estimated 41 mpg on the highway and an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city.

2. Handy dimensions 

For groups that travel together, this hatchback is tailor-made to your needs. Thanks to 17.4 cu-ft of fixed cargo space, the 2020 Rio5 can accommodate gym bags, hobby equipment, and farmers market produce hauls with ease. For big box items or an apartment move, the Rio5's 60/40 split-folding rear seats expand those dimensions to 32.8 cu-ft. Leave those seats up for a full-house trip to the ball game and your rear-row passengers get 33.5 inches of comfortable legroom to enjoy too.  

3. Device connectivity 

Staying connected is easy with the 2020 Rio5. Want to call ahead to make dinner reservations? Bluetooth^® hands-free calling functionality is standard, plus you can take the volume up or down from steering-wheel-mounted controls. Keep your crew entertained with your compatible devices' playlists, audiobooks, and apps via the Rio5’s Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto™ functionality. Once connected you can manage it all on the front dashboard's seven-inch infotainment touchscreen.   

4. Useful driver aids 

No matter the downtown conditions or challenges up ahead on your highway commute, the 2020 Rio5 has driver aids that offer a welcome boost as you focus on the road ahead. A rearview camera with parking guidelines is standard, while the brake-assist system sensors can automatically apply full braking power if needed. Choose a 2020 Rio5 with the available Technology package and you’ll also get forward collision warning and emergency braking, a useful tool in busy traffic.  

5. Passenger-focused features 

In-car features should make your day easier, so it's good to see that the 2020 Rio5 has plenty of these thoughtful touches as standard. For full hands, or when your kids race ahead, remote keyless entry allows everyone to get inside quickly and get comfortable. Connect a device to the front row USB port so other passengers can take their turn playing their favorite songs, while cruise control functionality supports you as the driver on long-distance highway driving.