Big test drive kia rio. The new Kia Rio is the first Russian test

Who said that the use of common platforms when creating cars of different brands is “evil”: cars, they say, become similar to each other? Going to test Kia Rio new generation, I also did not expect any surprises from this Korean sedan: they say, the same Solaris, only with a different body. In fact, it turned out that to be and to seem are, as they say in Odessa, two big differences ...

But looking at the dry numbers of the technical characteristics of the new Rio, you can’t say that.

In terms of dimensions and length of the wheelbase, engines and gearboxes, as well as the design of the chassis, they and the new Solaris are twin brothers. It seems that only outwardly cars seek to hide their relationship.

However, inside the new Kia Rio demonstrates not just originality, but rather a different, more European approach to both design and interior organization.

Stylistically, the front panel would do honor to another car a class or even two higher. The plastic on the dashboard, although hard, is quite pleasant both in appearance and to the touch. The inserts with piano lacquer finish in the top configuration noticeably ennoble the interior.

It is difficult to make any serious claims to the new Rio in terms of ergonomics. The adjustment ranges of the seat and steering wheel are such that both a tall driver and one who does not differ in grenadier growth will pick up a comfortable fit for themselves.

Neither the location of the keys and rotary knobs that "manage" the main functions, nor the build quality of these parts raise any questions either: clearly calibrated efforts, there are no backlashes at all. Equipment Rio with a change of generations has become richer. According to representatives of Kia, the approach to the formation of complete sets (especially top ones) was as follows: if some equipment is in demand among customers, it should be available for the new Rio.

Among the new options is a 7-inch screen multimedia system, which is now compatible withiOSAndAndroid, displaying traffic jams in online navigation, leather seat upholstery (!), Sliding armrest box and cornering light function using a special lamp.

The rear seats of the new Rio do not deprive their inhabitants of the space, but they do not amaze the imagination either. "By myself" with a height of 193 cm, I squeezed in with difficulty, although behind the driver of average height I felt quite at ease. Unless the roof "pressed" on the top of the head. The trunk of the new Rio is exactly like the Solaris: both in nominal volume (480 liters) and in geometry. Visually, the cargo compartment of the car gives the impression of being "clamped" in height, but it should be noted that a full-size spare tire is hidden underground, and this is a definite plus in our conditions.

With a 1.6 liter engine, 123 hp. With. (there were no cars with a 1.4-liter engine on the test), in motion the new Rio behaves exactly like the Solaris: it starts confidently from a standstill, but for dynamic overtaking on the track it needs to be actively turned. Moreover, the relationship with the car "on the pedal" is non-linear: first you spin the engine - then you get the desired return. A long-stroke clutch pedal requires a habit: the clutch “grabs” quite high, and this moment itself is not easy to feel. But the gear lever is tuned almost perfectly: it moves gently, the steps turn on clearly. Only in the transverse direction, the lever moves, for my taste, are unnecessarily small.

The sixth gear in the Rio manual box is not “economical”, but accelerating: at 110 km / h on the tachometer - 2800 rpm. At the same time, the car does not require a “fifth” if it is necessary to accelerate smoothly. This, as it turned out, does not greatly affect the economy: in the combined cycle, our Rio 1.6 MT with three adult riders on board consumed an average of 8.4 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers, despite the fact that a significant part of the test route of the first day fell on the city crowd .

The design of the chassis on the Rio New is the same as on the new Solaris: McPherson struts are installed in front, and a transverse beam is used in the back. But specialists from Hyundai and Kia were engaged in suspension settings on their cars independently of each other. In addition, Rio engineers also used other front shock absorbers. The result was curious.

If "Solaris" with the same indifference reacts both to minor defects in the coating and to pits half a wheel deep, then Rio collects small things on the road in too much detail and reacts a little nervously to technological joints on flyovers. But the energy intensity of the suspension with the change of generations has turned from a weak to a strong side of Rio: the new car filters large irregularities so confidently that it literally provokes driving in the style of “more speed - less holes”. And yet - allows you to keep a very decent cruising speed on the primer.

The sixth stage does not add acoustic comfort: on a long journey, you want the engine to be quieter. In general, the sound insulation of the new Rionot bad. At the same time, the front passengers hear the engine more, and the rear passengers hear the noise from the tires.

The handling of the new Rio is also commendable: the car confidently goes in a straight line on the highways, does not rest at the entrance to the turn and tenaciously keeps the trajectory on the arc. And a well-tuned steering wheel with an electric booster is not too “squeezed”, and at the same time does not deprive the driver of a sense of control over the car and information about what is happening with the steered wheels.

The top version of the Premium with an "automatic", in addition to the richest equipment, flaunts regular 16-inch wheels, which are not available even as an option on the "younger" versions. Representatives of Kia Motors Rus assured us that such a car is perceived to be tougher on the go than a sedan with standard 15-inch wheels. However, in reality it turned out that the Rio rides no less comfortably on “16” wheels! Moreover, the car became less susceptible to small irregularities, but in general it seemed to us more solid and assembled.

On a grader with a washboard type coating, Rio Premium flew at 80, 90 and even 100 km / h without any problems and discomfort for riders, without showing any “dissatisfaction” at all. And nothing creaked in the cabin. Well, on the winding "twisted" paths, with which the Vyborgsky district of the Leningrad region abounds, the top Rio finally breathed deeply. It became clear what exactly the specialists from the Russian representative office of Kia had in mind when they said that they set up the Rio New with an eye on those who seek to enjoy driving. Unexpectedly confirmed conclusion.

What is the bottom line?

The new Kia Rio is clear evidence that automakers can, if desired, build two completely distinctive cars on a common platform. “The Rio audience is on average about five years younger than the Solaris audience. And we tried to focus on these people, too, ”says Valery Tarakanov, Marketing Director of Kia Motors Rus, about the new product. How to choose between these two models?

In short, the Koreans will position Solaris, first of all, as a family car, while Rio is addressed to those who appreciate not only practicality, but also driving properties. In general, it is worth recognizing that the new Rio has set a very high bar for competitors: we are, in general, used to the fact that budget B + class models have both bright advantages and obvious disadvantages. However, there are no visible failures in the main consumer properties of Rio, all of them are at a consistently high level for the class.

Like the car of the previous generation, the new Rio is produced at the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Rus plant near St. Petersburg Photo: manufacturer

How to travel from Moscow to St. Petersburg? Personally, I prefer the railway: I took a train in the center of one city - and after four hours I ended up in the center of another. And how to get to the station? In the morning - definitely a taxi. I called through the application and - voila! – the car is found. Good news: Kia Rio will take me to the Leningradsky railway station.

That's nice - at the same time I will refresh my impressions of the previous generation car before a date with the new sedan.

The salon looks great and makes a good impression, even though there is hard plastic everywhere. Photo: Kirill BREVDOkpauto

The car is brand new - only a week in a taxi. On the odometer 4.5 thousand kilometers. The driver is not fastened, but in the belt lock there is a snag plug so that the car does not get nervous. I ask - why is it so dangerous? The pillow will think that you are buckled up and with all its inflatable soul will fly into your face with a powerful jab on impact. I know, he says, but it’s better this way - the belt doesn’t rub your neck. I'm interested in how Rio is otherwise. Everything, they say, is good - the taxi driver answers me - before that there was the same sedan, so he drove more than two hundred thousand kilometers without any breakdowns at all - only the consumables were changed. Reliable stuff!

So far, Rio exists exclusively in the sedan, but in the future, the appearance of a hatchback is not excluded - including in the off-road version of the Cross Photo: manufacturer

Well, the praise of a taxi driver is worth a lot. Moreover, the Kia Rio is good not only as a workhorse - the sedan is quite wealthy as a family car. How about a new generation car? How is she better than before? I'll try to figure it out.

It is difficult to talk about appearance, because you yourself know the taste and color. I can say this: if earlier Rio looked definitely better than Solaris, now it’s not a fact. Everything seems to be fine, but personally it does not cling to me. And it shouldn’t, probably - after all, this is an extremely average car. However, almost all colleagues noted that the license plate that moved to the bumper looks out of place - the trunk lid seemed to be orphaned. In the photographs, by the way, this design feature is not as noticeable as it is alive. And a Moscow taxi driver will surely say that such a metamorphosis turned into an obvious inconvenience: you can’t stand in the wrong place and, having opened the trunk, hide the number from the parking lot.

With landing there are no problems either in front or behind. Taxi drivers will be happy! Photo: Kirill BREVDOkpauto

The interior is good, although it is assembled from hard plastic a little more than completely. The glossy plastic that frames the display of the multimedia system is a dubious decoration: it is traditionally easily soiled. But I liked the steering wheel: its rim is covered with artificial leather, which cannot be distinguished from the real one: it is pleasantly silky to the touch. Leatherette (or, to be precise, eco-leather) is also covered with furniture of the most expensive Premium version - and this is worse than a rag interior in cheaper trim levels: the back sweats. There is no ventilation, of course, but there is heated seats, both front and rear. There are other warm options that appeared on the old Rio - heated steering wheel and windshield. Special thanks for this!

Multimedia is simpler without a touch screen and navigation, but in control it will not yield to a more expensive system with a touchscreen. The latter, by the way, sounds better than the base one due to additional tweeters in the front doors Photo: Kirill BREVDOkpauto

By the way, now all sedans, without exception, are equipped with air conditioning, although earlier there was no “refrigerator” in the database. Also, by default, all cars are equipped with a stabilization system, which previously could only be obtained in the most expensive trim levels. And the previous generation Rio did not have tire pressure monitoring at all, while now this position is on the list of basic equipment. A trifle, but nice. Do you think all this is reflected in the price? Yes, not especially. An old Rio with a 1.6 engine and mechanics in the Luxe version costs 750,900 rubles - this is 4,000 rubles. cheaper than a new car in the Comfort configuration (754,900), which, in terms of equipment, corresponds to the previous “Lux”. That is, in a sense, Kia Rio even fell in price. True, there are various kinds of discounts on last year's cars, so, in the long run, new-generation discount-free sedans will turn out to be more expensive anyway.

Both the mechanics and the automatic in Rio have six steps. The manual transmission is brought from the Czech Republic, and the automatic transmission comes from Korea Photo: Kirill BREVDOkpauto

With the ergonomics of the driver's seat, Kia is all right. But the passenger seat is set too high and also lacks adjustment, so that even with my short stature, I felt that the ceiling was hanging in the immediate vicinity of my head. It is good to sit behind, although there is no headroom here either. But with legroom, everything is fine, and feet are easily placed under the high-set front seat, even in bulky shoes. There is a minimum of amenities in the back row: heated seats and bottle-bottle pockets in the door trim.

From the point of view of winter operation, Rio should be good: everything and everything is heated here - front and rear seats, steering wheel, mirrors and windshield Photo: Kirill BREVDOkpauto

In motion, Rio surprised not with a literal resemblance to Solaris similar in filling, but with differences from it - apparently, the desire of Kia engineers to give the car a more sporty character forced them to use other suspension parts. Due to the original shock absorbers and stiffer springs, Rio more noticeably works out road surface defects, and on gentle waves it elastically tosses the body, trying to open the springs as quickly as possible. On the other hand, the energy intensity seems prohibitive: the suspension steadfastly holds a blow even on very large irregularities. True, this does not add comfort to passengers.

Tire pressure monitoring and stability control are standard equipment. All Rio without exception are also equipped with air conditioning, but climate control appears only in the Luxe package Photo: Kirill BREVDOkpauto

The power steering was also reconfigured - the Kia steering wheel spins easier than that of the Solaris brother. At the same time, the reactive force is at a good level: you can always understand what happens to the wheels in a turn. But the information content of the clutch pedal drive is far from ideal: you can feel the moment of closing the discs purely empirically.

In the simplest configuration, the steering wheel is not adjustable for reach, but in other versions - no problem! Photo: Kirill BREVDOkpauto

Therefore, I liked Rio on the machine more. The box is good: the gears change quickly and on time. And there is no need to complain about the acceleration rate: the speed increase is smooth and smooth. Overtaking on the highway is good for a 123-horsepower engine, although the atmospheric engine of a Korean car, of course, cannot be compared with modern German small-volume turbo engines. But in the city - no problem: here the machine is in its element.

The glove box is incompetent: small (you can’t put an A4 sheet), it is completely devoid of decoration and, moreover, is not locked with a key. The armrest cover is adjustable in length in two positions. Photo: Kirill BREVDOkpauto

And the main problem in terms of comfort to the new Rio was passed on by the slightly earlier Solaris. We are talking about a high level of noise, from which you can’t hide, you can’t hide. The main party is driven by tires that are audible even when driving at not very high speeds. But as soon as the speedometer crosses the mark of 100 km / h, all conversations in the cabin begin to be carried out in a raised voice. Well, the engine also contributes - especially during acceleration, when maximum output is required from it. In general, the Kia Rio is certainly not quiet. The car of the previous generation - and he was driving quieter!

The on-board computer display shows the operating mode of the wipers - this happens at the time of changing the mode using the steering column switch Photo: manufacturer

The rest of the car turned out to be pleasant, although not cheap. The optimal version with a 1.6-liter engine, coupled with an automatic transmission in the Comfort package, will cost 794,900 rubles. However! On the other hand, what else can you buy now for that kind of money? Direct competitors cost about the same. Vesta is a little cheaper, but how it is doing with reliability is still not known for certain. Renault Logan compared to Kia is already the last century, and golf-class sedans are significantly more expensive - and at the same time they do not differ much from Rio in terms of interior space and trunk volume. One way or another, they will take a new car. And if a hatchback with an off-road version of the Cross appears, then the Korean car has every chance to feel confident in the Russian one in the future.

Trunk volume is 480 liters. You can open it either with a key or from the passenger compartment, since there are no buttons on the lid itself. Hefty loops can wrinkle luggage. It will be convenient to close the trunk with a handle Photo: Kirill BREVDOkpauto

SPECIFICATIONS KIA RIO 1.4 MT

Dimensions (length, width, height) - 4400/1740/1470 mm

Working volume - 1368 (1591) * cu. cm

Power - 100 (123) l. With.

Fuel consumption avg. per 100 km - 5.7 (6.6) l

Dynamics up to 100 km / h - 12.2 (11.2) s

Maximum speed - 185 (192) km / h

Trunk volume - 480 l

Ground clearance - 160 mm

* data in brackets are for version 1.6 AT

If before Rio and Solaris were absolutely the same in terms of driving sensations, now Kia has different chassis settings and, accordingly, rides a little differently Photo: manufacturer

Liked: a decent set of equipment for the basic version, a five-year warranty, a spacious rear row, good acceleration dynamics, a roomy trunk, excellent energy intensity of the suspension

Dislikes: high noise level, not the best ride, high cost of well-equipped versions, no opening button on the trunk lid

The Russian Kia Rio has nothing to do with the European model of the same name - in fact, it is a copy of the Kia K2 for the Chinese market Photo: manufacturer

Hyundai Solaris, Volkswagen Polo, Lada Vesta, Ford Fiesta

Watch an interesting video on this topic

The leader of the Russian market and the most popular car in class B, which removed from the pedestal not only the Solaris co-platform, but also the Lada Granta. And the consumer properties of a new generation car have pulled up even higher, but prices have also grown. Will the newcomer be able to keep the lead? This we will know in time. In the meantime, we took the new Rio for a test, as usual, in the most advanced configuration, in order to evaluate its merits.

The new Rio has matured, added in dimensions in almost all areas, has become more spacious, more solid and modern, has acquired many new options. A solid design does not contain anything defiant and is designed for a mass audience. Of course, continuity has been preserved. Huge headlights, in the maximum configuration - with lensed optics, cornering lights and strips of LED running lights. The rear LED lights are connected by a decorative bridge, which undoubtedly gives the stern solidity.

The body has become stronger, the share of high-strength steels in the power structure has exceeded 50%. But the curb weight increased by 40 kg. The fuel tank increased by 8 liters to 50 liters. There are also changes in the chassis. The track became wider and the front levers changed, which should improve directional stability and handling. For the same, the castor is immediately increased by five tenths to 4.6 degrees - the angle of inclination of the axis of rotation of the front wheels. And at the back - a new Elantrovskaya beam, where the shock absorbers are installed almost vertically, which should also have a positive effect on the Rio's driving performance. The power steering gave way to an electromechanical unit mounted on the steering shaft. This more modern solution should affect the information content of the steering wheel, especially in the near-zero zone.

The interior also has continuity, it looks more solid and modern, although there is hard plastic everywhere. It looks solidly, fitted and everything is done in good conscience. Everything is functional and thought out, as ergonomically as possible. Communication system with a 7-inch screen does not glare, has a good resolution and a fast processor, there is navigation. The image from the rear view camera - with trajectory lines. Under the display, a convenient climate control panel and a block of buttons for new “warm options”, in addition to seat heating, steering wheel and windshield heating appeared. In the maximum configuration, heating of the rear sofa is also available. At the very bottom of the center console are a pair of 12-volt sockets, the necessary connectors and a spacious niche for a mobile phone and small things.

The instrument cluster is the same as on Solaris, of two round scales and with an on-board computer monitor in the middle - exemplarily concise and informative in a European way. The “sporty” multifunctional steering wheel with comfortable tides in the grip area is sheathed in non-perforated, but very pleasant to the touch leather. On the spokes are buttons for controlling the on-board computer and audio system. To the left of the steering wheel is the headlight range control panel, dashboard lighting control, tire pressure sensor and the stabilization system shutdown button.

The reserves of steering wheel adjustments in two planes and the seat, including height, are quite enough for a driver of any height and build. The chair has a great profile and soft, comfortable padding, only the lumbar support adjustment is missing. In our case, it is sheathed in leatherette and this is the privilege of the top configuration, but I would probably refuse such a privilege in favor of a pleasant textile upholstery. The length-adjustable armrest with storage capacity for small items is also quite functional. In their places, as expected, are pockets in the doors, a pair of cup holders on the central tunnel, a eyeglass case in the ceiling panel next to the button of the now mandatory GLONASS system. The traditional glove box, everything exactly as in Solaris, turned out to be a primitive medium-sized container made of hard thin plastic without lighting and cooling. And the designers also saved on a pocket in the back of the driver's seat.

The increase in the length of the base had a positive effect on the spaciousness of the rear sofa in the leg area, but the space above the head was back to back. A family trait - the low slope of the roof makes itself felt. But, in general, it is comfortable to sit, the back profile is good. There are three headrests, but there was no armrest, and there is not, according to the status, a B-class sedan is not supposed to. The trunk is of medium volume, but 20 liters less than before, which, apparently, is due to the design of the stern. Neat upholstery, a belt pocket on the left, and a full-size spare wheel under the floor. The back of the rear sofa leans back in parts, forming a step with the trunk floor. There is a handle for closing the lid from the inside. And outside - only the peephole of the video camera. The trunk opens with a lever from the passenger compartment.

On the test of the new Solaris, we have already noted the appearance of a 100-horsepower engine, which the predecessor did not have. So on Rio, the starting engine now fits into a more favorable category of taxation, which cannot but rejoice. Absolutely the right decision, a car in the budget class must have an initial engine of low power for people who want to save on taxes and insurance. The example of the Koreans should be followed by other automakers who were chasing power. In particular, there are not enough small motors for some AvtoVAZ models - Vesta and XRei. But on the test car, of course, there is a 123-horsepower 1.6-liter engine in combination with a 6-speed "automatic".

In terms of accelerating dynamics, as expected, there are no surprises - a moderately frisky engine, responsive to control actions with a well-tuned accelerator, paired with an adequately shifting “automatic” gear, do their job clearly and smoothly. The engine had a variable length intake manifold and a second phase shifter, but this had practically no effect on performance and behavior. The average fuel consumption cannot be called modest, in the combined cycle it was about 12 liters, and this is with one driver behind the wheel and at a fairly calm pace of driving, without fanaticism when pedaling. Maybe a 100-horsepower motor will, nevertheless, be more economical?

But the Rio's driving performance is only pleasing, it has an excellent ride and sufficient energy intensity, with well-coordinated kinematics of the front and rear suspension. The car confidently holds a straight line at any speed. And the steering is just exemplary: less than three turns from lock to lock, a clear zero, optimal reactive force, precise reactions and excellent information content. You enjoy driving and feel reliable during sharp maneuvers, and the car successfully performs a "rearrangement", that is, a detour of a sudden obstacle that has arisen at a speed of over 80 km / h.

The sedan confidently goes through turns and clearly writes an arc with moderate rolls, and the stabilization system does not annoy too much, it turns on correctly and on time. By the way, despite the fact that there is a button to disable the system, it only pushes the threshold. And with visibility, and with the brakes, no problems, except that I would like the rear-view mirrors to be larger. Good ergonomics, a good chassis, and as for sound insulation, it seems that here it is a little better than in Solaris, although there is no soundproof mat on the inside of the hood here either. And additional "Shumka" also does not hurt.

As for driving on primers and rough terrain, this is still not Rio's forte. The declared ground clearance is 160 mm, but in reality it is no more than 150, and in some places, it seems, even less. But even this is not the main problem, the front overhang is long and it’s easier than ever to hit a bump with the edge of the front bumper even in a harmless-looking place. So, for regional destinations, Rio, as well as Solaris, is not the best option. And the rest, everything is wonderful.

And what definitely makes the Rio a better choice than the Solaris is that the 5-door hatchback remains in the Kia range. Dealers have not yet announced the timing of its appearance, but it will definitely be. So, those 20% of buyers who preferred hatchbacks now have no choice - only Rio. And presumably, the hatchback will be more affordable than the sedan in a similar configuration.

Summing up, it is safe to say that the new Rio has become better in almost all respects. Now this is not just an ordinary B-class sedan, but one of the undoubted leaders in consumer qualities. And again, it may be prevented from becoming the leader of the segment, perhaps, by the increased cost. The price of the Rio starting equipment is higher than that of Solaris - from 670 thousand for a car with a 100-horsepower engine and a "stick". The next equipment with heated front seats and an audio system is 35 thousand more expensive. At the time of the test, the minimum price for a car with an "automatic" is 770 thousand. With a 1.6 engine on the "mechanics" - from 755 thousand, the same with an "automatic" is 40 thousand more expensive. The cost of Rio in the maximum configuration starts from 990 thousand, plus packages of additional options, which, as a result, significantly exceeds one million. And this is already beyond the reasonable limit of the B-class, no matter how good the car is! In this price category - the patrimony of cars of other sizes.

In the meantime, we are waiting for a hatchback, but in a minimal way, this, for me personally, is an interesting option!

Specifications Kia Rio (Manufacturer data)

• Body - 4-door, load-bearing, steel
• Number of seats - 5
• Length - 4400
• Width - 1740
• Height - 1470
• Base - 2600
• Clearance - 160
• Curb weight, kg - 1259
• Gross weight, kg - 1610
• Trunk volume, l - 480
• Engine - gasoline
• The number and arrangement of cylinders - 4, in a row
• Volume, l - 1.6
• Power - 123 hp at 6300 rpm
• Torque - 151 Nm at 4850 rpm
• Gearbox - 6-speed automatic
• Drive - front
• Front suspension - independent, spring, McPherson
• Rear suspension - semi-independent, spring
• Maximum speed, km/h - 192
• Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km / h, s - 11.2
• Fuel consumption per 100 km, l
• Urban cycle - 8.9
• Country cycle - 5.3
• Mixed cycle - 6.6
• Fuel - gasoline AI-92-95
• Tires - 195/55 R16

Photos from the test drive Kia Rio in Kazan

Car for a test drive provided by the car dealership ""

Today in Russia, few people remember the first generation Kia Rio (factory code DC), which was launched in 2000. As a matter of fact, if this sedan somehow stood out among classmates, it was only at a low price.

The rise in popularity of the model on the Russian market began in 2005, when the second generation of the model appeared with the factory code JB. In 2009, the car slightly updated its appearance, having received a "tiger nose" invented by Peter Schreyer, a new steering wheel, front and rear bumpers and a spoiler in a luxury configuration. But, perhaps, the main reason for the rush demand for this car was the first five-year warranty offered for it.

In 2011, the third generation was born, the Rio QB. This vehicle was originally conceived as a global vehicle, with special editions targeting the American and European markets as well as China. It was on the basis of the Chinese version that a modification for Russia was developed, the assembly of which was launched at a plant in St. Petersburg on August 15, 2011. Two body styles (sedan and hatchback), two engines (107 and 123 hp), a whole range of convenient configurations and the same five-year warranty - these are the components of success that allowed Rio to immediately become one of the most popular and mass models, and then become the absolute leader in the number of cars sold. Nevertheless, in modern conditions, six years is a respectable age, so the need for replacement was in the air.

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A piece for four boomerangs

And here it is, the next generation with FB code. It is built on a new modular platform, which potentially allows to significantly expand the range of engines. The platform is universal, modular, the new Picanto and the European crossover Kia Stonic are also built on it. As usual, when changing generations, the car added in size, coming close in size to the next segment. The length has grown by 23, the width by 40, and the wheelbase by 30 mm. Naturally, this means that the interior has become noticeably more spacious.

Outwardly, Rio has definitely become more interesting. I would not call the appearance of the novelty aggressive, but rather energetic. Of the eye-catching exterior details, I would note the narrow grille, which visually forms a single horizontal line with the headlights, and LED running lights, fog lights and brake cooling air intakes, combined into a single boomerang-shaped unit.

These boomerangs have something in common with reflectors having the same shape and located on the rear bumper. I liked the aggressive ribs on the edges of the hood, which are visible from the driver's seat and which can be used to assess how the trajectory of the wheels will go, and the wedge-shaped stampings on the sidewalls.

The only thing that causes criticism is the large, slightly convex and completely empty surface of the rear of the trunk lid. When you go for the new Rio on the road, at first it seems to you that its driver has lost the number ...

Horizontal Magic

In the cabin, the main dominant was the horizontal metal molding, passing from side to side and clearly dividing the front panel into the upper part, with ventilation system vents and instrument cluster, and the lower one, with the media system and climate control unit.

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At the presentation of the car, representatives of the company proudly declared "the best interior in the class." Best or not the best - hard to say. In fact, it seems to me that the interior still lacks some sports and youth notes, although if we compare it with the interior design of the main relative and competitor, Hyundai Solaris, the interior really looks a little more interesting.

Firstly, because of this very horizontal dominant, the interior seems wider than it really is. Secondly, a round protruding steering wheel hub (by the way, Peter Schreyer also invented it at one time) and the “yacht” design of the automatic transmission selector lever give a special charm. Thirdly, there is a regular box-armrest, and its longitudinal position can be adjusted.

Finally, for the top versions, a leather interior is offered (although such an offer works more for solidity than for a youthful image), but for the lower trim levels, in my opinion, one could “add a carnival” - well, at least due to bright color inserts in fabric upholstery.

Ready for the Russian winter!

It is the brand Kia was the first to equip cars of the lower, budget classes with such an option as a heated steering wheel. Naturally, she is present and in the new Rio. But the heated steering wheel and front row seats were not limited. The rear sofa is also equipped with electric“warmers”, and, perhaps, this offer can be called unique for the B + segment.

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Well, in addition, side mirrors, windshield and washer nozzles are equipped with heating elements. And the volume of the washer reservoir has been increased from 4 to 4.6 liters. Indeed, these 600 "cubes" may not be enough to drive home on a slushy winter road without stopping on the side of the road to add fluid to the tank. On the other hand, there is such a moment: an expensive “anti-freeze” is sold in our bottles with a capacity of 4 liters, but the budget one is 5. Which one the owners of such a relatively inexpensive car like the Rio will choose is not even worth discussing, but 5 liters in the tank still won't fit. You will have to put an almost empty can in the trunk, and the trunk has its own oddities.

Sim-sim, open up!

Average fuel consumption

6.0 (6.6) l per 100 km

The fact is that the trunk of the new Rio is equipped with an electronic lock. You can open it by either pressing the button on the key fob, or using the lever located on the floor near the driver's door. Top versions flaunt an intelligent trunk release system. It works like this: you approach a locked car with a key in your pocket (of course, in the back) and stand with a mute reproach for three seconds.

The car recognizes the key, understands that the owner has come, and without any “magic pendel” on his part, opens the trunk, and powerful springs immediately raise the lid to a sufficient height. The system really works (we tested) and is really handy if you left the supermarket with a bunch of bags in your hands.

But, as I said, not all configurations are equipped with such a system - this is the time. And if you need to take something from the luggage compartment, and you get out of the already open car, leaving the key fob in the cabin, while forgetting to pull the very lever at the threshold, then the trunk will not open, and you will have to return to the driver's door - it's two. Because there is simply no external button for the trunk ... It's a pity.

And what's under the hood?

So far, the range of powertrains includes two engines already familiar from the new Hyundai Solaris. This is a new Kappa 1.4 MPI Dual-CVVT engine with a displacement of 1,368 cc. cm and a power of 100 hp, and a seriously modified Gamma 1.6 MPI engine with a volume of 1,591 cc. see It develops 123 hp. and is capable of delivering 156 Nm of torque, peaking at 6,300 rpm.

Of course, such traction cannot be called "locomotive" in any way, but Kia engineers seriously tinkered with the settings, increasing the torque in the range from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm by 7-10%. All the cars presented on the test were equipped with just such an engine with two transmission options, a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic, so all my comments about the dynamics and general behavior of the car on the road refer only to this engine.

Integration issues

For Rio, there are two options for the media system. The first, with a monochrome display, is equipped with the "younger" configurations Classic, Comfort, Luxe and Prestige, and only the Prestige is equipped with a Bluetooth module for connecting a hands-free phone. Well, since only automatic transmission is provided for the Prestige, it turns out that numerous car owners on the "handle" will be forced to either buy a separate speakerphone device, or break the law, and at the same time risk the safety of both their own and other road users.

But at the service of buyers of the top version of Premium is the new AVN 5.0 media system with a 7-inch monitor, a rear-view camera, navigation with the ability to receive information about traffic jams and integrate with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems. Alas, I still cannot call such integration complete. The system provides access to certain smartphone resources - in particular, to music tracks and incoming text messages. But here you will not be able to use the many installed applications.

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For example, we turned on Android Auto - please use the navigation features Google Maps, and this package, in principle, is not able to work offline. No other navigation services, such as the popular Yandex Navigator, are available to you. That is, they are available, but only directly on the smartphone screen. In this regard, the approach offered by the company seems to me much more universal and promising.

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Just add sound

I spent the entire first day of the test drive, which started on Krestovsky Island in St. Petersburg and passed along the roads of the Leningrad Region, driving a car equipped with Lux c mechanical box. First of all, I note that I easily found a comfortable position for myself, although I have rather specific preferences: I like to sit as high as possible and with a fairly vertical backrest. But even with the maximum lifting of the seat, I did not have to move it all the way back, and the steering column, which was adjustable not only in angle, but also in reach, made it possible to find a position in which both hands were comfortable and the dashboard did not cover anything.

The fact that the car turned out to be really very energetic, I realized immediately when, when trying to quickly start from a traffic light, the engine growled and turned the wheels on dry pavement. Well, on the track, I fully appreciated the efforts of engineers to increase torque at relatively low and medium speeds: Rio confidently accelerated in fifth and even sixth gear from a speed of 50-60 km / h.

Naturally, for overtaking it was necessary to switch down, but this did not cause any difficulties: the lever moves are small, the selectivity is high, you don’t have to reach for higher gears, and the shifts themselves can be done with short wrist movements. The engine is very responsive and willingly spins up to 5-6 thousand revolutions, but even in the "economical" zone it does not turn into a full plant. At the same time, at idle, the engine is not audible at all, but in the “slipper on the floor” mode, the sound fills the cabin, adding adrenaline to the blood.

In general, subjectively, Rio with both “mechanics” and “automatic” is perceived as a very dynamic car. Of course, this is not a sports car, and it should be borne in mind that 10.3 (for the version with manual transmission) or 11.2 (for automatic transmission) seconds to “hundreds” is far from the same as 5-6 seconds that demonstrate powerful "hot hatchbacks". But in itself, this indicator for the B + segment is very good: in any case, both Skoda Rapid and VW Polo sedan with a 1.6-liter engine accelerate a little slower.

Try counted!

Luggage compartment volume

In the past, the Kia Rio's suspension and steering have caused a lot of criticism, especially among active drivers. Naturally, the developers of the new generation of Rio could not leave these aspects unattended. They didn't leave. Firstly, an electric amplifier was registered on the steering rack, which replaced the hydraulic-based assembly. The EUR, of course, is a more flexible device, and in principle can provide higher control accuracy, but only if the settings are correct.

So, the developers have exactly coped with this task: the sensitivity in the near-zero zone is quite high, the force transmitted to the steering wheel allows you to very accurately dose the angle of rotation. It also affects the fact that the geometry of the front suspension has been completely redesigned, and the castor (the angle of the longitudinal inclination of the axis of rotation of the car's wheel) has been increased from 4.1 to 4.6 degrees. It is on this indicator that the force that seeks to return the wheel to its original position depends on the deviation of the wheel from rectilinear motion.

The stability and stability of the car's behavior both in a straight line and in corners is determined by the whole complex, which includes both steering and suspension, both front and rear. Here, too, we see very big changes. If on Rio QB the rear shock struts were located at an angle of 25 degrees to the vertical, in the new generation they stood almost vertically, with an angle of only 8.4 degrees, and this immediately had an effect. Both Rio and Solaris of the previous generation suffered from the fact that their rear axle "rearranged" on bumps.

I can’t say that the car completely got rid of this ailment, but the scale of its manifestations has decreased radically. In a straight line, the car is generally stable, like a flying crowbar, and even on a very rough road does not require active steering. If the unevenness is on the trajectory of an energetic turn, then the rear axle still rearranges, but the change in the trajectory is easily parried due to the accuracy of the helmsman.

It is worth noting that the suspension of the Rio's closest relative and main competitor, the Hyundai Solaris, was modified in much the same way, but it seemed to me that the Kia engineers did a little better with the task of fine-tuning, and I would like to note the well-found balance between stiffness, which makes it possible active taxiing, and comfort, including on poor pavement with bumps and pits.

I also immediately remembered how noisy the new Solaris seemed to me. Maybe it's all about the tires (we tested the car in the winter, and it was shod with winter tires, which, of course, makes much more noise), or maybe the Hyundai designers decided to save on noise insulation ... One way or another, the fact remains: noise in the Rio salon, of course, it is present, but in general it does not bother.

Submachine gunners, attack!

Statistics, as you know, know everything, and recent studies irrefutably show that the popularity of automatic transmissions in Russia is steadily growing. This growth in popularity also affected the budget segments, where until recently the “mechanics” alone ruled the ball.

The policy of different brands in the matter of “automation” varies greatly: some rely on robotic dual-clutch boxes, others on continuously variable transmissions. But Kia

In a quiet driving mode (namely, it is still the main one for cars in the segment), switching is practically not felt, and delays during kickdown do not go beyond acceptable. Well, if you have some critical overtaking (say, you see that after a few hundred meters you will enter the area of ​​​​the prohibition sign), then just pull the selector to the left, and then to yourself, switching the box to manual mode and switching down a couple of gears . As soon as the car “shoots”, you can return the lever to its original position and complete the maneuver already in the “automatic” mode.

Summing up, I can say that I liked the car, and I liked it in terms of the whole range of parameters, from the length of the seat cushions and the convenience of landing to the control features. As for individual shortcomings, such as the lack of hands-free with connecting a phone via the Harald Blue Tooth protocol in lower trim levels or an external trunk lock - so who doesn’t have such shortcomings? Moreover, they are perceived as trifles that are not able to spoil the overall impression.

Your voice

I am a happy man. Because one of the first (with the factory index FB), the assembly of which has just begun at the plant in St. Petersburg. For the sake of this, I had to fly to St. Petersburg and put up with the fact that so far only camouflaged cars are allowed to drive on public roads.

It is unlikely that my assessments can be taken as the ultimate truth. I rode nothing at all, the new cars were from a pre-production batch (one with a mileage of about 50 thousand kilometers), and the camouflage, in addition to hiding the contours of the body, also creates a noticeable background noise at high speed. Nevertheless, there are some observations - all the more so that we managed to jump from to a new one and back.

Has the character changed?

So, the main question is: has the character of the new Rio changed? The answer is unequivocal: yes! The reconfigured electric power steering, the new geometry of the front suspension (in particular, the angle of inclination of the wheel axis is increased by half a degree) and the upgraded rear suspension, in which the shock absorbers stood almost vertically, did their job. If the old Rio rides just with dignity, then the new one has a lively thing that will clearly please active drivers. The beginner feels better “on the steering wheel”, more confidently holds the high-speed straight line and is more willing to rebuild after the turns of the steering wheel. Damn it, there have never been such revelations for inexpensive Kia before!

But I will not overpraise, because not everything is clear. Firstly, it seemed to me that in the extreme corners Rio is too willing to fall into a skid, noticeably squatting on a loaded rear wheel. But this has yet to be retested on commercial vehicles. In addition, three more people from the factory were traveling with me, so the load was noticeable.

You have to pay for excitement, and you know what - smoothness. The new Rio is slightly stiffer, the steering wheel has a slight itch (its echoes are also noticeable on the pedals), the noise level from the road has slightly increased. Is it bad? Decide for yourself. For me, a better understanding with the car is more important than a slight loss in comfort.

And it's good that the 6-speed automatic was reconfigured. The Koreans say that this is a new generation box, although it is more correct to talk about modernization. On the old Rio 1.6, with more or less active driving, the gas pedal has only two positions: either the entire working stroke, when practically nothing happens, or the “almost to the floor” position, when the machine suddenly wakes up and convulsively tucks downshift. Nervous, tattered ride. And on a new car, this dependence is more linear: if you push, you accelerate. I pressed harder - the box went one step lower, the car went even faster. More convenient, clearer, more comfortable and ultimately safer.

If we are already talking about units, it's time to recall that the new Rio is practically the twin brother of Solaris. Therefore, the engines are the same: 1.4 liters (100 hp and 132 N∙m) and 1.6 liters (123 hp and 156 N∙m). Both motors will be combined with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. My choice - 1.6 with a "handle": a great pair!

Factory people assure that the car has noticeably increased in size, but this is not entirely true. Who will notice an increase of 23 mm in length? It can be reached with other bumpers. By the way, Rio is shorter than the new Solaris by 5 mm, although technically the cars are extremely similar. Why? I'm talking about bumpers.

The wheelbase has grown by 30 mm - up to 2600 mm. Now this is more serious. But here it is necessary to return again to Solaris, which has the same wheelbase - and how could it be different if the “cart” is the same?

Claimed clearance - decent for this class 160 mm. I did not check it, because the cars that were at my disposal were without engine compartment protection, and it is she who, as a rule, determines the lowest point. Here we take a commodity car a little later and deal with this issue in detail.

Among other important decisions for our motorists, I would like to note the fuel tank increased to 50 liters (+7 liters). The washer reservoir has also become more capacious: before it was 4-liter, and now its volume is 4.6 liters. This is a small victory, but why was it not immediately brought to 5 liters so that the contents of a standard canister could fit into the tank?

In the engine compartment, everything is organized extremely neatly and thoughtfully: easy access to the battery, to the neck of the washer fluid reservoir and to the oil plug. Even the bulbs in the headlights are convenient to change - I checked.

Special for Russia

Did you notice that I didn't say a word about the design? There will be a lot of disputes (some will like it, others will not), and I do not want to act as an arbitrator. Let me just say that all the spy photos that have flickered on the Internet so far can be forgotten: our car has its own front bumper - it turned out to be a kind of combination of the Chinese Kia K2 sedan with bumpers from the European Rio hatchback. Although this is not a completely accurate description! Our Rio was created specifically for the Russian market, and many components and individual parts were brought to our requirements. If the brake disc has similar dimensions but different specifications, is it the same part? As an engineer, my answer is no.

Live Rio looks more interesting than in the photographs. The decision to visually combine the taillights seems to me extremely successful. Yes, and "boomerangs" in the bumpers are quite appropriate. And the interior is really good! The new Rio blurs the line between B and C class cars, with a quality finish that other more expensive cars will envy. And it's good that the Koreans finally left the dubious Asian lines: moderate European rigor suits the car.

Although it was not without oddities. For example, the Koreans sacredly keep the custom of placing “pullers” of the gas tank hatch and trunk locks at the driver’s feet. Come on, there must be something family.

Rio equipment is rich. It is clear that there are airbags, a dynamic stabilization system, air conditioning (or climate control), power windows, heated exterior mirrors, two-stage rear seat heating, a tire pressure monitoring system and ERA-GLONASS. But that is not all. Rio can be equipped with a multimedia system with a 7-inch screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (navigation builds routes based on traffic jams), there is a rear-view camera and even cornering side lights. And among the special chips is a leather interior, which is not available. It is clear that this is the so-called eco-leather (we simply call it leatherette), but some will want this. I prefer fabric seats - they are more comfortable and pleasant, even in the heat, even in the cold.

What is the price?

At the beginning of my story, I apparently got excited about the "main question." Intelligible handling is great, but not everyone is touched by it for the living. But the price is of interest to everyone. And there is still a lot of uncertainty on this issue.

The Koreans say that sales will begin in the third quarter of this year. And the third quarter - here it is, knocking on the door. July? August? September? So far, silent, although August looks like the most likely solution. (In the press release, which the Russian representative office of Kia distributed on June 23 at 13:00, August was confirmed. - Note. ed.) Not a word about prices. But you don’t have to be a visionary to predict with 99.9% accuracy that the price of Rio will not go far from Solaris, prices for which range from 625 thousand rubles to a million with a small tail, if we consider a fully packaged car.

Will there be a crossover?

And a few more words for those who drive crossovers or still only dream of all-wheel drive. All talk about a small Kia crossover can be safely curtailed - we will not have one in the near future. A facelifted Creta with Kia emblems will only damage the brand, as everyone will perceive such a car as a secondary one. And it’s not a fact that now in our market there is a place for two identical crossovers: you can sell Creta in large quantities, but two identical cars will not find twice as many customers - internal cannibalism is inevitable, which the Koreans do not want.

The trunk lid still opens from the passenger compartment - with a floor "twitch". On expensive versions, contactless access is provided: you need to stand in the immediate vicinity of the trunk with the key in your pocket for a few seconds - and the “casket” will open. The trunk lid still opens from the passenger compartment - with a floor "twitch". On expensive versions, contactless access is provided: you need to stand in the immediate vicinity of the trunk with the key in your pocket for a few seconds - and the “casket” will open.

Moreover, the capacity of the plant is limited - it is already working to its fullest: five days a week, three shifts. This is the most efficient auto production in the country, but its capacities have been almost completely selected. Kia can only make about 100,000 cars a year here - and the question is how to distribute this volume among different models. It is economically unprofitable to produce two completely different cars in this situation.

Do you understand what I mean? In addition to the sedan, in a few months the Rio hatchback will appear on the conveyor, which, if everything goes according to plan, will be offered in a raised “crossover” version. Together, the sedan and hatchback will select the entire production quota. So what is next…

Then everything will depend on you, dear readers. You are not only readers, but also buyers! If in the foreseeable future, along with the growth of the market (and there has been one), sales of Kia cars in Russia will rise to at least 200 thousand a year, the Koreans will have a serious reason to think about building a new plant, since there is a site near the existing Hyundai enterprise - it was originally envisaged . Go ahead. Maybe the new Rio will help.