Automotive purchases are a huge emotional deal for some of us.  We typically have our radars locked on a dream machine, or

I pleasant looking little sedan, the Rio is priced right and therefore delivers a lot of value. (Photo: Kia)

on a set of wheels that will have to do if the note on a Porsche 911 is a bit too much.  Others among us aren’t emotionally attached to cars – we just want a solid ride that will get us around safely and reliably.

Our test subject for this review, the 2009 Kia Rio, fills the latter purchaser category admirably. 

Rio models start at a thrifty $13,595 (not including a $1,455 freight and handling charge).  My upgraded EX Convenience tester had a base price of $16,545, so total damage with freight was $18,000.  The Rio is frugal on gas, with a solid 9.0L/100km city / 6.7 highway fuel economy rating.

And

The Rio offers a room interior and sizable trunk, for the class. (Photo: Kia)

for your $16,545, you’ll get a car that’s very well equipped. Let’s start with safety features -- always important to consider when purchasing a vehicle -- perhaps doubly so when making a small car buy.  All Rios come standard with advanced front airbags, front seat mounted side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.  Front seatbelts include pretensioners with force limiters and each rear seating position (three) has a three-point seatbelt. The Rio earns a four/five star (driver/passenger) front crash test rating in U.S. Government crash tests, which is extremely good.  A tire pressure monitoring system is another required standard safety item on the Rio.

Inside,

A few extra goodies spice the Rio up nicely (interior shown is for Rio5 EX Sport). (Photo: Kia)

the value equation really comes into play.  A good sounding radio/CD/MP3/SIRIUS head unit with four speakers, AUX and USB inputs for your iPod or other MP3 player; Bluetooth connectivity; tilt steering column; six-way adjustable driver’s seat; remote trunk release; auto-off headlamps and tinted glass are among significant interior standards.  The upgrade EX Convenience includes all the power accessories needed, such as power windows, power door locks with keyless remote, power heated outside mirrors, plus air conditioning, and heated seats.  You’ll go mad winding down the base manual windows, and having to reach back or over to unlock passenger doors, so spend the money for this well-priced, well-named Convenience package.

On

For a little more sport and hatchback utility, Kia offers the Rio5. (Photo: Kia)

the road, the Rio’s 1.6L, 16-valve, four banger performs without fuss.  Acceleration is decent, as is highway passing power.  The Rio is better suited however as an urban transporter rather than a highway dueler.  Ride quality is also decent.  Push it hard through turns, and the narrow tires protest a bit, while body lean is noticeable but not out of line with Rio competitors.  Large road imperfections like the pothole you didn’t see will wake you up in a hurry if you’re an early morning commuter, but again, Rio ride quality is similar to competitors.

Which brings us to the “equalizer” when it comes to purchasing any Kia product.  The Rio comes standard with a five year/100,000 km comprehensive warranty, five year/unlimited km rust through warranty and five year/100,000 km 24 hour road assistance.  Five years of free, 24-hour road assistance on a $14,000 car?  Do the math.  Even if you pony up the additional few thousand for additional options over base, the 2009 Rio is a solid buy for those seeking comfortable, cost-friendly, reliable transportation.