Best Subcompact Sedans

#1 2023 Kia Rio MT score 8.6/10

Kia Rio Expert Review

The affordable car isn't dead yet! The subcompact Kia Rio sedan and hatchback carry over into the 2023 model year with no changes aside for the addition of an engine oil level sensor. Slotting under the Forte sedan in the Kia lineup, the Rio is one of the few cars still offered with a sub-$20,000 price tag. It competes with other subcompacts including the Nissan Versa and Mitsubishi Mirage.

What we think?

The 2023 Kia Rio stands out in the small subcompact segment. It blends affordability, practicality, and a hefty assortment of features. It's nice to drive, too, especially with its refined suspension tuning. Strong fuel efficiency is an added benefit for consumers looking to continue saving beyond the initial point of purchase.

Value is one of the Rio's greatest strengths. It comes equipped with a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and even the top Rio S trim can be had for under $20,000. In our First Test review of the 2021 Rio S hatchback, we determined that it remains a relatively comfortable and confident car and represents the benchmark of the subcompact segment.

Our complaints come part in parcel with its price-conscious competitive set. Even if the Rio is quicker than its rivals, the engine gets very loud under hard acceleration. Although we had more fun than we expected while test driving the Rio, we also noted that the steering is fairly numb. Many driver assistance safety technologies are optional.

With the Chevrolet Spark and Hyundai Accent discontinued for 2023, the Rio only competes with the Mitsubishi Mirage and Nissan Vera. With strong value and good road manners, we believe that the Rio fulfills the mission of an A to B runabout.

Performance and fuel economy

Kia equips the 2023 Rio sedan and hatchback with just one powertrain. A 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine resides under the hood, sending 120 hp and 112 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels via a CVT automatic. The hatchback we tested managed a 0-60 mph time of 8.6 seconds, quicker than the Nissan Versa which took a sluggish 9.7 seconds to do the same. Kia squeezed a lot of efficiency out of the four-cylinder. The Rio manages 32/41 mpg city/highway.

Safety Ratings and features

For 2023, the IIHS gave the Rio Good ratings, its highest possible mark, in every category of crashworthiness aside from the small overlap front passenger test where it received an Acceptable rating. Rio S models with the Technology package get Good-rated headlights, but other Rios have Poor headlights.

Kia doesn't equip the Rio with many standard active safety features; just the basic stability control technology we expect on every modern vehicle and hill-start assist are included. Adding the Technology package bundles together forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, high beam assist, driver attention warning, and lane departure warning.

Cargo Space and Interior Room

The Kia Rio's rear seat compares favorably to that of the Nissan Versa, its closest competitor. Configured as a sedan, the Rio has less trunk space than the Versa. As a hatchback, it offers a fairly spacious 17.4 cubic feet of cargo volume.

Legroom (front/rear)Cargo Space2023 Kia Rio hatchback42.1/33.5 inches17.4 cubic feet (32.8 cubic feet with seats folded)2023 Kia Rio sedan42.1/33.5 inches13.7 cubic feet2023 Nissan Versa sedan44.5/31.0 inches15.0 cubic feet

Technology

.The 2023 Kia Rio boasts solid standard technology features. An 8.0-inch touchscreen comes equipped with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A six-speaker sound system is equipped on every Rio. The hatchback comes with a rear USB port but getting the same feature on the Rio sedan requires stepping up to the S trim. A push-button start and automatic temperature control are available.