New Kia Rio and Hyundai Solaris. What is better to buy kia rio or hyundai solaris

The formidable bestseller of the Russian market seemed to shrink and timidly pressed against the wall of the underground parking. Next to the new Solaris, the old sedan is a white dwarf compared to a red giant, according to the “solar” terminology stated in the title. And it's not just the size, but also the design, the amount of chrome and equipment. And Hyundai was not afraid to immediately expose the suspension to the Pskov roads. The new Solaris turned out to be several orders of magnitude better than its predecessor, so we decided to immediately give it a serious test - to compare it with the Volkswagen Polo.

Polo and Solaris have too much in common. Firstly, they are of the same age: the production of cars at Russian factories began in 2010, although the German sedan started a little earlier. Secondly, the manufacturers stated that the cars were created specifically for the Russian market and for difficult road conditions. Thirdly, instead of the total savings of Logan, Polo and Solaris offered an attractive design, options that were not typical for the budget segment, and more powerful engines.

The radiator grill with horizontal slats and the lights splashing over the fenders and trunk lid evoke associations with the Audi A3 sedan, the black “bracket” on the rear bumper is almost like a BMW with an M-package. The top version of Hyundai Solaris shines with chrome: foglight frames, window sill line, door handles. Is this a modest representative of the B-class? From its predecessor, Solaris retained only a massive trunk. The rear overhang has grown, and the rear fenders have become even more prominent. The silhouette has completely changed, and Hyundai not without reason compares the budget sedan not only with the new Elantra, but also with the premium Genesis.

The warranty for the new Solaris is 5 years or 150 thousand km, for Polo - less: 3 years or 100 thousand kilometers.

If the design of Solaris may seem too avant-garde to someone, then Polo is on the other style pole. It's like a classic two-button suit: it looks decent and you can't immediately tell how much it costs. Simple classic lines may not catch the eye, but they will not become outdated for a long time. If they become familiar, then it is enough to change the bumper with optics - and you can produce the car further. In 2015, Polo got chrome parts and a “bird” on the wing, as if peeped from the Kia Rio.

Polo is the magic of Das Auto, a thoroughbred "German", but as if born in East Germany, in a panel high-rise building in a residential area. The corporate stingy style is not able to disguise frank savings. This is especially noticeable in the interior: a rough texture of hard plastic, a simple dashboard, old-fashioned air ducts, as if it were a car from the 1990s. Neat fabric inserts on the doors give the impression of being soft until you hit your elbow. The most expensive detail is the narrow armrest between the front seats. It is really soft and even upholstered with velvet inside.

The headlights of the top-end Solaris in the Elegance package are equipped with LED daytime running lights with static cornering illumination.


Cup holders under the center console only hold small bottles. The console itself is not arranged very well: the multimedia screen and the climate control unit are low and distract from the road. The climate system knobs are small and mixed up in places: you want to increase the temperature, but instead you change the blowing speed.

The front panel of the Solaris looks more expensive, although it is also made of hard plastic. The perception is influenced by the quirkiness of details, elaborate texture and, importantly, accurate assembly. Optitronic tidy with pointer gauges for coolant temperature and fuel level - as if from a car two classes higher. Now you can not be distracted by the steering column levers, because the modes of light and power windows are duplicated on the on-board computer screen. The avant-garde interior of Solaris is much more practical. Under the center console there is a roomy niche for smartphones, it also houses connectors and sockets. The screen of the multimedia system is placed high, between the central air ducts, and the climate control unit with large buttons and knobs is simple and straightforward to use. The heating buttons are logically grouped into a separate block, so you can find them without looking.

Polo fog lights are able to highlight turns, and bi-xenon optics are offered as an option.
The driver's seats of both cars are tight and quite comfortable. There is an adjustment of the pillow in height, but the lumbar support cannot be adjusted. Backward visibility is better in Solaris due to larger mirrors and a diagonal display that displays a picture from the rear view camera. But in the dark, Polo with bi-xenon headlights is preferable - Solaris even has “halogens” in the most expensive configuration.


The test Polo had a simple multimedia system with a tiny screen, and a more advanced one with support for MirrorLink is available for a fee. But even it will yield to the one installed on the Solaris: a large, high-quality and responsive display, TomTom navigation with detailed Here maps, theoretically capable of showing traffic jams. Android Auto support allows you to use navigation and traffic jams from Google. In addition, there is support for Apple devices. The multimedia system is offered in the maximum configuration, but even a simple audio system is controlled using the buttons on the steering wheel, equipped with Bluetooth and connectors for connecting smartphones.




Solaris hospitably opens the back door to a larger angle. Thanks to the increased distance between the axles, the passengers of the second row are no longer cramped. The Polo, despite its shorter wheelbase, still offers more legroom, but otherwise, the Solaris has caught up with the competitor, and even surpassed it in some ways. Comparative measurements showed that it has a higher ceiling and more space in the back at elbow level. At the same time, a tall passenger touches the back of the Hyundai's drop-down roof with the back of his head, and an overlay on the folding back loop rests against the lower back of the person sitting in the middle. But at the disposal of the other two passengers - two-stage seat heating, a unique option in the segment. Polo can only offer a folding cup holder for second-row passengers. There is no folding center armrest in any car.

Solaris has increased the lead over the competitor in terms of trunk volume: 480 against 460 liters. Folding sections of the rear backrest have been swapped, and the opening to the cabin has become wider. But the "German" in the underground has a capacious foam box. The loading height is lower for the Volkswagen, but the Korean sedan is in the lead in terms of the width of the opening. The Polo trunk in expensive trim levels opens with a button on the lid, as, indeed, the Solaris trunk. Plus, as an option, it can be opened remotely - just walk up to the car from behind with a key fob in your pocket.

The new Hyundai Solaris is longer and wider than the Polo and also outperforms the German sedan in wheelbase.
At the time of its appearance, the "first" Solaris was equipped with the most powerful engine in the segment - 123 horsepower. For the new sedan, the Gamma series unit was modernized, in particular, a second phase shifter was added. Power remained the same, but the torque decreased - 150.7 versus 155 Newton meters. In addition, the engine reaches peak thrust at high speeds. The dynamics remained the same, but Solaris became more environmentally friendly and economical, especially in urban areas. The version with "mechanics" consumes an average of 6 liters of fuel, the version with automatic transmission - 6.6 liters. The motor turned out to be more elastic than on its predecessor - the sedan with the "mechanics" easily gets under way from the second, and in the sixth gear it travels at a speed of 40 km per hour.

The 1.4-liter Polo turbo engine is slightly more powerful - 125 hp, but noticeably more powerful: peak 200 Nm is already available from 1400 rpm. The dual-clutch robotic gearbox is much faster than the classic Solaris automatic, especially in sport mode. All this provides the heavier German sedan with better acceleration dynamics - 9.0 s to 100 km / h against 11.2 s for Hyundai.

The VW Polo with a turbo engine has better acceleration dynamics and a higher top speed.
Polo is more economical - on average, he spent seven and a few liters per 100 km, and Solaris in the same conditions - a liter more. The usual “aspirated” 1.6 liter, which is also put on the Polo, does not have such advantages in dynamics and consumption, although it seems more preferable for a budget sedan and is equipped with a classic “automatic”. Robotic boxes and turbo engines are more complex, so many buyers are wary of them.

Both sedans have been specially trained for extreme Russian conditions: increased ground clearance, plastic fenders, protective pads on the lower part of the arches, anti-gravel protection, rear towing eyes. On the bottom of the doors, Polo has an additional seal that covers the thresholds from dirt. In cars, not only the windshield is heated, but also the washer nozzles. So far, only Solaris has a heated steering wheel.

The old Solaris went through several rear suspension upgrades, going from overly soft and prone to bouncing to stiffness as a result. The chassis of the second-generation sedan is new: the front has upgraded McPherson struts, the rear is a more powerful semi-independent beam, like on the Elantra sedan and the Creta crossover, with shock absorbers set almost vertically. It was originally set up for broken Russian roads. The first prototypes (it was the Chinese version of the sedan under the name Verna) began to run in two years ago. The future Solaris in camouflage drove along the mountain roads of Sochi and along a grader leading to the half-abandoned Teriberka on the coast of the Barents Sea.

The roads of the Pskov region are great for checking the work done - waves, ruts, cracks, potholes of various sizes. Where a pre-styling first-generation sedan would long ago have rocked passengers, and a restyled one would shake optimism out of them, the new Solaris rides quite comfortably and does not pay attention to single large pits. But it rides very noisily - the knock of each pebble on the arch is clearly audible, and how the spikes bite into the ice. The tires hum so loudly that they drown out the whistling of the wind in the mirrors that appears after 120 km per hour. At idle, the Solaris engine is not audible at all, even the smaller Polo turbo four runs louder. At the same time, the German sedan is better soundproofed - its tires do not make so much noise. The disadvantage of the new Solaris is solved by a visit to the dealer or to a specialized service dealing with soundproofing. But the driving character is not so easy to change.

In Hyundai at the base of the center console there is a roomy niche for smartphones with sockets.
Hyundai engineers chose the Polo as a model for handling when developing the new Solaris. In the habits of the German sedan there is what is called the breed - in the effort on the steering wheel, in the way it keeps a straight line at high speed. It resiliently works out broken sections, but before speed bumps and deep pits it is better to slow down, otherwise a hard and loud blow will follow. In addition, the Polo's steering wheel is still too heavy when maneuvering in a parking lot.

Solaris is omnivorous, so he is not afraid of speed bumps. In pitted areas, the shocks are more noticeable, in addition, the course of the car has to be adjusted. The new electric power steering turns easily at all speeds, but at the same time provides intelligible feedback. First of all, this applies to the version with 16-inch wheels - the sedan with 15-inch wheels has a more blurred “zero”. The stabilization system for the Korean sedan is now available in the “base”, while for the VW Polo it is offered only with a top-end turbo engine and a robotic gearbox.

Buttons on the steering wheel and cruise control on the left lever are offered for a surcharge for the Polo in the expensive Highline configuration.
Once the Polo and Solaris competed on base price tags, now on options. The basic equipment of the new Solaris is impressive, especially in terms of safety - in addition to the stabilization system, there is already ERA-GLONASS and a tire pressure monitoring system. In the most popular Comfort package, an optitron instrument panel, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and reach adjustment have been added. The top version of Elegance has navigation and a light sensor. Volkswagen has already responded with a new Polo trim called Life, essentially a Trendline tweak with extras like heated seats and washer jets, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter.

So what to choose: xenon light or electric heat? Restyled Polo or new Solaris? The Korean sedan has grown up and approached the German competitor in terms of driving performance. But Hyundai keeps the prices a secret - the launch of mass production of the new Solaris will begin only on February 15th. No doubt a bigger, better-equipped car will rise in price and possibly cost more than the Polo. But Hyundai has already promised that the sedan can be bought on credit at favorable rates.

The Solaris, with its larger 16-inch rims, matches the Polo on the bumpy road in terms of energy efficiency.
What is the base Solaris with a 1.4 liter engine

The junior 1.4 liter engine for Solaris is new, of the Kappa family. It is familiar to Russian buyers of Hyundai, for example, from the i30 hatchback, and in Europe the same engine can be equipped with a turbocharger. For our market, it was deformed below 100 hp. for tax benefit. Now annual payments will decrease for Muscovites by almost one and a half thousand rubles. The motor lost a little in torque: 132.4 versus 135.4 Nm, but it reaches peak thrust and maximum power at lower speeds. The elasticity of the power unit has also improved. The archaic 4-speed "automatic" and 5-speed "mechanics" were retired - now all transmissions are 6-speed. At the same time, the average consumption increased slightly, and the acceleration dynamics worsened by half a second. Now Solaris with “mechanics” and a 1.4-liter engine accelerates to 100 km / h in 12.2 seconds, and the declared average consumption is 5.7 liters. Sixth gear is great for highway driving. Such cars can be equipped with rear disc brakes instead of drum brakes, but they will not have heated rear seats.

Read more on Autonews:

Over the past few years, the streets of cities have been filled with Korean cars at a high speed. This choice is explained by the fact that the models are quite well adapted to city roads and are affordable.

This article is intended to identify the main performance differences between the two brands of Korean automotive industry, and help the reader understand which is better Kia Rio or Hyundai Solaris for him. Since both models belong to the middle class and even look almost the same in appearance, at the end of the article it will become clear to the reader which car should be preferred.

Kia Rio was the first to leave the assembly line, but this did not give him any advantages in the market. Some time later, after the release of the Hyundai Solaris, it overtook its competitor in terms of the number of sales in the CIS countries, which became the main consumer of this car.

It is not entirely clear what exactly caused such demand, because it is impossible to determine the leader by simply comparing passport data, you will have to disassemble both cars for spare parts by comparing.

Appearance and interior

If you compare Kia Rio and Hyundai Solaris in appearance, both brands look decent.

But in turn, Kia stands out for its solidity and presentability, when, like his opponent, he has notes of a more sporty style.

Inside, the cars also have a modern finish, made in modern traditions. Kia has a more austere look of the instrument panel with a red backlight.

It is impossible to distinguish from the cars the best in terms of interior, both salons have solid material, fairly high-quality plastic from the price of the middle range. All seams and joints in the cabin are neatly and successfully fitted.

Interesting: the hatchback body type of both brands of cars is most often bought by female drivers and the younger generation.

Engine and gearbox

Both Kia Rio and Hyundai Solaris are equipped with gasoline engines that have the latest innovation - direct multipoint fuel injection "Gamma", the volume of which exists in both 1.4 and 1.6 liters. The torque is equal to - 124 hp. /156 Nm and 108 hp /136 Nm.

Until recently, the box had the same characteristics, 4-speed automatic, mechanics - 5.

In later models, Hyundai Solaris provide one step more:

• manual transmission - 6,
• Automatic transmission - 5.

The maximum speed during acceleration of cars does not differ in a large interval, the gap is only a few km, fuel consumption per 100 km is also small.

Important features and disadvantages in operation

Given the shortcomings point by point, you can determine: Kia or Hyundai which is better.

Hyundai Solaris:

1. Rubber seals from the luggage compartment are not of the best quality, so they quickly become unusable;
2. After driving the first hundred kilometers, the front hub bearing group often fails;
3. It is worth paying attention to the front pillars;
4. Also noteworthy are the power steering and air conditioning outlets;
5. Manual transmission control is needed at high mileage, synchronizers fail;
6. Too thin layer of paint, on the chips it is noticeable how small the layer is;
7. A thin layer of metal on the car body, dents are inevitable when stones and other things hit;
8. Weak bumper.

1. You can not perform a full tuning;
2. The soundproofing of the entire cabin quickly becomes unusable;
3. After hundreds of kilometers, the air conditioner may need to be repaired;
4. The light in the cabin is weak, you constantly have to add PTF;
5. Passing over 120 km / h, the controllability of the car is reduced, as well as side slip in strong winds and high windage;
6. The capacity of the gas tank could be more;
7. There is little space in the back seat.

Strengths and characteristics of Kia and Hyundai cars

Hyundai Solaris:

• For the price range of this car, it has excellent handling. Unexpected moments in the management almost never happen, at any speed and in all weather conditions;
• The build quality can be considered a strong point, since the owners do not complain about corrosion of body parts, squeaks and other similar troubles;
• The appearance of the car, the exterior and interior can be safely attributed to the pluses. Its inner grace and pleasant geometry of the seats give special comfort when traveling, which emphasizes its status as a comfortable family car;
• Good value for money. After purchasing a car, it is difficult to complain about the overpayment, because it is worth the money in full.
• Vehicle reliability. Under conditions of careful maintenance, timely oil change, replacement of all necessary gaskets and filters, special fluids and other things, the car will serve faithfully for many years.

• 2014 and 2013 cars come with a 5-year warranty. In case of failure of one of the important working module of the machine, it will be repaired completely free of charge, when contacting a certified service.
• Motorists often do not tolerate temperature changes. Climate control in this car works like clockwork. In the case of a low temperature outside the window, the interior heats up quickly enough, with sultry heat outside, it cools the air in the cabin in a matter of minutes.
• Profitability is the Kia Rio's strong point, the minimum consumption is valid both on a bustling city highway and on country roads. The technical equipment of the system makes it possible to fill in 92 gasoline, which allows you to really reduce costs.
• The car picks up speed perfectly, while the brake works quickly and smoothly. The brake pedal is sensitive to touch, and with little effort obediently performs its function.
• A roomy trunk, this advantage makes the car popular among both young motorists and aged motorists. The whole general appearance of the car does not have intrusive unnecessary details or colorful colors in the driver's field of vision, which scatters attention and distracts from continuous monitoring of the road.
• One of the main advantages of this car is its price. Kia Rio is designed for a Russian citizen with an average income.

Crash test

Having passed the crash test based on European standards, the Hyundai Solaris received 2 stars, which is quite small. The car of 2017 has 6 airbags in the configuration, ESP - in the configurations of expensive models, ABS. Thus, we can conclude that if the safety point is important for the buyer, then you should pay attention to other models from this price category.

Kia Rio, which is used by Russian consumers, did not pass the test, only cars manufactured for Europeans passed. But the entire geometry of the hull, materials and equipment are almost identical to the opponent. The security package is also similar.

Interesting: both cars were developed taking into account the condition of the roads of our country, the height is -160 mm.

The price comparison of Kia Rio and Hyundai Solaris, like many comparative characteristics, also lie next to each other.

A Kia Rio car as standard costs from 640 thousand rubles. The cost does not include any additional programs like recycling programs for old cars.

Price Hyundai Solaris has a slightly more attractive price - from 598,000 rubles. The car does not include additional equipment, such as a rear power window or air conditioning. Only the Solaris 1.6 version is available with a six-speed manual, which costs from 802,000 rubles.

Conclusion

It is possible to determine the winner among these two car models for quite a long time according to different criteria and giving various comparative characteristics.

It would actually be wrong to single out the best among them, because one car enthusiast likes comfort and more strict features of the body, the other will appreciate the sporty style and stiff suspension. The personal choice of everyone who cannot choose from these two cars will depend on such preferences.

Hyundai and KIA are two parallel developing divisions that are part of the same South Korean automaker. The developers of these brands work in close contact with each other, develop in parallel and quite effectively, and competition between firms, perhaps, was invented by the users themselves and warmed up by journalists.

Similarities of both cars

Cars have a lot in common and it is not surprising. Assembly is carried out by almost the same people, and the conveyors are equipped with the same equipment. Yes, and all parts, assemblies, assemblies and spare parts are supplied from Korea as an assembly for both cars. Let's try to consider and compare both presented samples by elements. We are sure that this is how you can accurately determine which is better Kia Rio or Hyundai Solaris.

Compare technical equipment

Car engines have the same internal volume - 1396 cm³, 107 horsepower, and differ only in the type of power unit (Rio has DOHC, Solaris has Gamma). The fuel tanks have not only the same volume (43 liters), but also an absolutely similar shape. In the average fuel consumption per 100 km declared by the manufacturers in urban mode, there is a slight advantage for Rio - 7.8 versus 8.2 liters, and Solaris looks more economical on the highway - 4.9 liters, Kia Rio - 5.0 liters.

The suspension of the cars has no fundamental differences:- wheelbase 2570mm, - ground clearance is quite acceptable for Russian roads 160mm. - type of front suspension - (McPherson), there is a stabilizer that provides lateral stability of the car in difficult road conditions.

The dynamic performance of both cars do not differ in any indicator: - acceleration to a hundred km. in just 11.5 seconds, and the speed limit is indicated at 190 km.

The overall dimensions of Rio and Solaris are also the same and are: - length - 4 meters, 37.7 cm, - width - 1.7 m, - height - 1.47 m.

Thus, after the first stage of comparison (TTX) of two cars - a draw 1:1.

What are the differences

Of course, in order to determine which is better for Kia Rio or Hyundai Solaris, it is necessary not only to study the technical indicators, but also to try to understand the opinion of users, as well as take into account other features. Kyo appeared on the market much earlier than his opponent, but, I must say, the appearance of this model did not make much of a splash. Solaris, in the shortest possible time, won the hearts of tens of thousands of motorists, primarily in the CIS countries, becoming the most popular and bought car over the past few years in a row.

It is obvious that the car base, powertrain, chassis and suspension are almost the same, with minor and unimportant changes. Therefore, in order to start looking for differences, which will allow you to make a choice of what to buy a Kia Rio or a Hyundai Solaris, you should pay attention to the following points: - Design. - Interior. - Comfort level. - Price. - Cost of maintenance.

Design solutions

First of all, the user is struck by differences in the appearance of cars, or rather, in the shape of the body. RIO looks more solid and more representative, approaching the forms of a classic sedan (hatchback). Solaris, on the other hand, has more rapid, streamlined shapes, outwardly the car looks sporty and modern. No model can be given an advantage here either, it all depends on personal preferences and the age of the car owner. Draw - 2:2.

Interior decoration

It is here that, in our opinion, the main advantages of Rio over its competitor are concentrated. First of all, a significant disadvantage in the interior of Solaris is the use of inexpensive plastic. In general, the model is positioned as a youth European car style. An advantageous advantage here is a modern, stylish, bright and efficient multimedia system, which contains all the necessary information.

Rio is undoubtedly a more presentable option, which is provided by a high level of interior trim, as well as high-quality, expensive materials used in interior trim. Addition in the form of alloy wheels, climate control, as well as more thoughtful and functional management of options, determines undeniable advantages in favor of RIO in this segment. (KIA takes the lead - 3:2).

Car cost

Both cars belong to vehicles with an established price threshold of 600,000 rubles (as of 2016). Of course, the price for these brands of vehicles largely depends not only on the conditions of release, but also on a number of subjective factors, primarily dealer decisions . There can be a significant difference in cost depending on the configuration of the car. It has basic and advanced options. In general, if quite recently the average price for the Rio was lower compared to the Hyundai Solaris, now the cost is almost the same. (10 thousand rubles difference - does not count!). There is also a draw here, and the total score is 4:3.

Service

The frequency of maintenance for Rio and Solaris is set by the manufacturer to be the same - 15,000 km (or 1 year). At the same time, the cost of compulsory work in Rio is significantly lower. As of 2016, the price comparison is as follows:

Mileage, km Maintenance cost

Mileage, km.	maintenance cost
	Kia Rio	Hyundai
15 000	4 500	6 000
30 000	6 500	7 000
45 000	7 000	8 000
60 000	9500	13 000
Total	27 500	34 000

The difference, of course, is small, but it exists and it should be noted: 5:3, and Rio wins confidently.

Summing up

And yet, despite the seemingly confident victory of the Kia Rio, we advise you to be careful about the recommendations and conclusions in our article. With the overwhelming similarity of the main positions of cars, it is probably advisable to make a choice taking into account personal preferences, brand popularity, as well as the cost of specific cars selected in car dealerships.

As usual, at the beginning of this "study" we indicate the parameters of comparison. After all, just as before, these Korean “twins” have an unequal number of trim levels: Solaris, as we already know, has four of them, and the new Rio has six. However, for the first one, additional packages of options are offered to the older trim levels, and even the top version is not “absolutely equipped”: it is offered to pay extra for a lot in it. Rio, in turn, has a simpler logic of filling with equipment - a greater number of fixed configurations follow from it, where you no longer need to pay extra for anything. In general, it is not difficult to draw a comparative parallel, starting from both the trim levels as they are saturated, and the prices, and we will consistently compare the versions from the base to the top.

And one more note: having the same technical base, sedans have equalized in the number of engines and gearboxes, as well as in the amount of maintenance costs. We are talking about the fact that Rio has gone four-speed "automatic" and five-speed manual transmissions, which were equipped with cars with a 1.4-liter junior engine: now both "mechanics" and "automatic" have only 6 steps each. And the new 1.4-liter engine, of course, has the same power of 100 hp as the Solaris, against 107 for the unit in the "old" Rio: this means that the cost of paying transport tax and insurance for both machines will be absolutely identical.

Basic equipment

Yes, and in some trifles of equipment of the basic configuration, the Korean twins also equalized. The past Rio, as we recall, did not have a tire pressure monitoring system and a hill start assist system, just as there was no extensive list of active safety systems, including ABS, VSM and ESS, and the power steering was hydraulic. Now here is the same electric power as in the new Solaris, the same basic options listed above, and, of course, the starting dose of options common to both cars: front power windows, front airbags, steering wheel and driver's seat height adjustment and audio preparation with 4 speakers.

However, there are also differences here, both not very critical and very significant. For example, Solaris' list of active safety systems includes the abbreviations EBD and TCS - brake force distribution and anti-bux, respectively, while Rio does not have such combinations of letters. But there is an ESC exchange rate stability system - in addition to the VSM that both cars have, which manages "Vehicle Stability Management", That is, stabilization.

In addition to electronic assistants, Solaris has a low-level washer sensor, immobilizer and central locking in the list of basic equipment - and although it would be strange to doubt their presence in Rio, it is worth mentioning their absence from the equipment list. But the base Rio has something that Solaris definitely didn’t “forget” to indicate, but deliberately didn’t install: this is air conditioning and rear-view mirrors with electric drive and heating. This is the fundamental difference between the basic configurations, and it quite clearly explains the tangible difference in their cost.

This cost is 624,900 rubles for a sedan from Hyundai versus 669,900 for a fellow from Kia. On the one hand, 45 thousand is a lot, but on the other side of the scale there are two facts: the first is that Rio has the notorious air conditioner, and the second is that Solaris has it only for 719,900, in the following Active Plus configuration. The surcharge here is already 95 thousand - although this money, of course, will include more than just air conditioning.

Right with air conditioning

The notorious Active Plus for Solaris is the second level of equipment out of four. At Rio, the second equipment is called Classic Audio - it is aimed at those who want to buy a regular audio system to the “base”, and in addition they also get heated front seats: this is where the differences end. This version costs 704,900 rubles. However, both in terms of price and logic, Kia should have the following equipment, Comfort, as a parallel to Active Plus - we will consider it.

In practice, however, it turns out that at comparable prices Solaris is in the role of catching up. In the second stage of equipment, he gets air conditioning and heated electric mirrors, which were already in the "base" at Rio, as well as heated front seats and a standard audio system - which, as we also know, are added to a colleague in a cheaper version of Classic Audio. The only trifle is that Rio only has control of this audio system on the steering wheel here, performed by Comfort, and Solaris also has one. However, on top of all this, Rio offers a bunch of notable options.

So, already the Comfort package means the appearance in Kia, well known for its “warm options”, a heated steering wheel in addition to the front seats. Rear power windows and an automatic driver's window, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift knobs and steering wheel adjustment for reach, and at the same time little things like the function of automatically locking doors when driving (which should be made a standard option not only for Rio and Solaris) and a key with central locking and trunk control buttons.

The set of available engines and gearboxes is already complete for this version: you can choose both a 1.4-liter and a 1.6-liter engine and connect it to both the “mechanics” and the “automatic”. At the same time, against the background of such a difference in equipment, the price parallel is very interesting: Solaris in the Active Plus version costs from 719,900 to 784,900 rubles, and Rio in the Comfort version is exactly ten thousand more expensive, from 729,900 to 794,900 rubles. In addition, within this range, prices differ no more: for example, the most affordable 1.4-liter “automatic” version from Hyundai costs 759,900 rubles, and from Kia - 769,900.

Under the hood of Hyundai Solaris "2017

However, despite this fairly clear parallel, you should not take Solaris as literally lagging behind in this pair, and there are two reasons for this. The first is that, in fact, the “breeding” of twin models assembled by one company on the same conveyor still remains more of a marketing tool. After all, the price forks of different trim levels intersect, and within the same amount as announced above, you can purchase Solaris in the next configuration option - Comfort, although, of course, you will have to be content with a less powerful motor or “mechanics”. The second nuance is that Solaris has already experienced a slight rise in price by an average of ten thousand rubles since its debut, and Rio is a fresh player, but we can expect a similar price increase for it in the foreseeable future.

More Options

Let's move on to the next pair of comparably priced trim levels: for Solaris, this is the aforementioned Comfort version, and for Rio, already Luxe. Here, the trend of “retrofitting” the sedan from Hyundai with options that were already in the previous version of the Rio continues: it gets rear power windows, an automatic driver’s window, a heated leather steering wheel with reach adjustment, and a key with buttons. However, here Solaris already has options that Rio does not offer: these are Bluetooth for connecting a mobile phone with steering wheel control and speakerphone, as well as a Supervision instrument panel. Doors from this configuration will be trimmed with fabric.

Rio parries with three pinpoint strikes: climate control, LED DRLs and front fog lights - these are all the differences between "Lux" and "Comfort".

In terms of prices, Rio again seems a little more expensive: the Luxe version costs 779,900 rubles for the “mechanics” and 819,900 rubles for the “automatic”, while the Solaris can be purchased from 759,900 to 824,900 rubles. However, the secret of a cheaper “entrance” for Solaris lies in the fact that it still allows the choice of a 1.4-liter junior engine, while for Rio a 1.6-liter engine has no alternative already from this Luxe configuration.

Even More Options

We are moving up the hierarchical ladder of configurations: Solaris has a “pseudo-top” version of Elegance, for which three more paid option packages are offered, and Rio has an “honest” pre-top in the face of the Prestige version.

In these versions, the cars are again partially equalized: Solaris gets climate control, fog lights and LED DRLs, and Rio gets a Supervision dashboard and a Bluetooth mobile phone connection function. In addition, both sedans are beginning to be equipped with rear disc brakes and 15-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, projection-type headlights and a light sensor, and an armrest with a container under it appears between the seats.

However, Rio again launches a counteroffensive: in addition to all of the above, it offers its “warm options” in the form of heated windshield washer jets, windshield and rear seats, as well as very important side airbags and curtain airbags and design details like improved fabric trim and chrome door handles. Solaris responds to this only with a regular multimedia system with navigation and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In terms of engines and gearboxes, there is, of course, parity: only a 1.6-liter unit with 123 hp, but two transmission options. Prices also differ minimally, but now in favor of Rio: they ask for it from 859,900 to 899,900 rubles, depending on the gearbox, and for Solaris - from 879,900 to 919,900 rubles.

Highest level

Well, the logical conclusion of the comparison, as usual, is the most equipped versions of cars - those where there is nothing to add. For Solaris, like last time, this is the Elegance version with Prestige, Safety and Style packages, and for Rio - the top version Premium.

Today, there is a huge variety of budget cars on the market. We will pay attention to two representatives of the Korean auto industry, who recently experienced a global update.

Hyundai Solaris 2019 is well known and respected by Russian motorists for an affordable price and pleasant practical properties. He has a sibling in the concern - Kia Rio 2019. We will try to find out the main differences, ask the opinions of experts and compare driving performance, coupled with Solaris trim levels.

lighting technology
behind
sedans
rio review

At first glance, the interior equipment of Rio differs from Solaris only in color. Then the eye notices the differences - a reconfigured center console, a different design of the front panel and the shape of the air vents. Ergonomics in the Korean pair is common. Recognizable devices, the same buttons as a colleague, the steering wheel and seats of the same profile.

By the way, the seat moves in a decent range, which allows you to take a comfortable fit. Both options have a small glove box. Hyundai - a simple office for papers, and KIA - special. The compartment, although small in volume, is cooled and illuminated.


Both seats can be adjusted in height, and Rio has the best steering wheel. In principle, the design is the same, but there is only one remark - here they did not save on finishing the wheels with leatherette. In addition, a stylish silver insert and recessed instrument wells add a touch of sportiness.

Average equipment - what they buy more

roomy steering wheel instruments
inside the chair
chair steering wheel inside

As usual, averaged modifications are most often bought. Among other options that can be purchased for money, Solaris is most often ordered:

• heated front seats;
• audio system;
• multifunction steering wheel with music control buttons.

Kia is better equipped by default, so more popular options are ordered for it. In addition to all of the above, it is worth adding:

• automatic central locking, locking the doors when driving;
• rear windows;
• key with D/U;
• decorative finishing of interior details with leather;
• steering wheel heating.

We evaluate the top versions of Rio and Solaris

The top equipment of the Solaris and Rio sedans is called Elegance/Premium. In this case, Hyundai receives:

• climate control;
• LED lamps;
• fog lights;
• parktronic;
• alloy wheels;
• light sensor;
• front armrest.

Kia can also count on:

• control instrument panel;
• heated rear seats;
• rear parking sensors;
• glass heating system;
• rear disc brakes.

The difference in dimensions

The main difference between the second generations of kia rio and hyundai solaris 2020 is in the visual design of the models. The first sedan is more focused on solidity and status. There are more chrome parts that are present around the entire perimeter of Rio, a false radiator mouth, volumetric optics. Rio wants to appear larger than he really is.

Compared to the Hyundai Solaris, his brother Rio strives to be more sporty in appearance, flaunting a narrow radiator grille, aggressive bumpers, and horizontal LED foglights. At the same time, similar dimensions of Rio also hint at kinship. The base and height of Solaris and Rio are common, and the length differs only because of the different body kit.

Additional Options Lists

As additional options, you can order a multimedia system that interacts with smartphones via AppleCarPlay or Google Auto software, as well as navigation that works in conjunction with the YandexProbka program.

Number of modifications

KIA outperforms Hyundai not only in terms of equipment, but also in the number of trim levels. Solaris has four of them, while Rio is sold in five different versions.

The struggle between hatchbacks and sedans

If both sedans are represented on the Russian market and even compete with each other, then the situation is different with budget hatchbacks. A Russian buyer can officially only buy a KIA Rio 2019 hatchback. Hyundai in a similar body for motorists is not available.

Market share in Russia

According to information in recent years, Kia Rio is the most popular car in its segment, with a share of 19%. Solaris is the silver medalist with 12%. Also in the top three is Rapid. The Czech manufacturer skoda pampers passengers with living space and a huge luggage compartment. Among other competitors, we can note the successful launch of lada vesta, which can compete with the leaders.

Differences in engines and fuel consumption

In technical terms, the differences are minimal. Both sedans are offered with a 1.4-liter base engine and a 6-speed manual. But for the Solaris automatic, as an option, you will have to pay 140,000 rubles, and the Rio automatic transmission will cost 100,000.

Advanced 1.6 liter petrol engines are also available with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. In terms of fuel consumption, the manufacturer gives identical figures.

Trunk volumes

The luggage compartment volumes of these twins are the same and amount to almost 500 liters. Differences only in the way of opening. The Hyundai sedan compartment opens with a lever in the cabin, with a remote control or a button on the door. And KIA has only the first two options.

If we talk about competitors, then Rapid is in the lead. Not so much because of the impressive trunk (530 l), but because of the double tailgate design, which makes it easier to load luggage. The liftback body is a unique offer in its segment from Skoda.

How are things with security?

Both Korean sedans are equipped with anti-lock systems, stability programs, two airbags as standard. When ordering advanced modifications, one or the other car can be equipped with curtain airbags that control options such as cruise control, and Rio can order rear disc brakes.

2019 Kia Rio and Hyundai Solaris prices

The standard equipment of the KIA is slightly more expensive than the Hyundai. Price list en Solaris begins from the mark of 620,000 rubles, and rio estimated at 680. The answer lies in the different number of options. The latter comes with ABS, driver's and passenger's door glass lifts, on-board computer, central locking. And KIA, in addition to everything, will also receive air conditioning and heated mirrors with electric drive.

maintenance costs

Previously, the cost of maintenance works for structurally identical models varied significantly. The amount for the first examination differed twice with the total number of procedures. With the advent of the next generation, the distance has decreased, but Solaris is still a little cheaper - 20-25 thousand thousand.

Expert opinion: which is better

Both options are good - which car is better - Kia Rio or Hyundai Solaris - an exclusively subjective opinion. Structurally, the cars are almost twins. But still there are a couple of differences. If you need a cheap and unpretentious sedan with a minimum maintenance cost, then it is better to take a Hyundai. If equipment is at the forefront, then there are no questions - Kia is ahead of the competitor.

Video test drive Kia Rio 2020 vs Hyundai Solaris

In this section, you can watch the first test drive of Rio, which will tell you the latest news about the new product, give detailed information about the behavior of the car on the road, and also compare it with its closest competitors.

Opinions of car owners

Anatoly, 54 years old:

“I was looking for a budget car - I just came up with two options. Started to figure out which is better. I read model tests, news, articles, reviews of modifications. Learned a lot of details that we did not know. For example, Solaris does not have glass heating in the car, but maintenance is cheaper. As a result, he gave the choice to him. Yesterday at 18 o'clock I just took the car from the passenger compartment - as a bonus, they issued free insurance. Nice".

Victor, 44 years old:

“If you compare the 2019 models, then they are pure twins. And by feeling. I went before to test the Rapid version of Monte Carlo - when the ESP system is turned off - a completely different calico comes out. And Koreans are similar to each other just one to one. I personally bought a KIA because of the equipment. Other than that, I didn't notice any difference."