2011 Kia Rio Sedan

For the 2011 Kia Rio, the manual transmission is now available only on the base sedan. The 2011 Kia Rio falls into the inexpensive category, as it isn’t quite a bargain. As far as small economy cars go, there are better choices than the 2011 Kia Rio.

You get what you pay for with a Kia Rio. The base model Rio lacks power steering, antilock brakes, air-conditioning and power accessories — items that are increasingly standard in this segment. On the plus side, the 2011 Kia Rio delivers respectable fuel economy and a warranty that spans 10 years or 100,000 miles. The 2011 Kia Rio subcompact comes in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a four-door hatchback known as the Rio5.

The Rio sedan is offered in three trim levels: the affordable base model, the better-equipped LX and the sporty SX. The Rio5 wagon is available in the LX and SX trims only. The LX adds power steering, antilock brakes, air-conditioning and 60/40-split-folding rear seatbacks. The top-of-the-line SX model adds 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a rear spoiler, heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals, power windows, remote keyless entry, cruise control, upgraded cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth and two additional speakers. Also available on the LX are 15-inch alloy wheels.

The 2011 Kia Rio and Rio5 are powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 110 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. The base model receives a standard five-speed manual transmission while the LX and SX trims get a four-speed automatic.

On the plus side, the Rio returns favorable fuel economy. With a manual transmission, the EPA estimates mileage at 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway and 31 mpg in combined driving. The automatic is rated at 27/36/30 mpg.

The 2011 Kia Rio comes standard with side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Antilock brakes are standard on the Rio LX and SX models. Stability control isn’t offered.

The Kia Rio has not been rated using the government’s new, more strenuous 2011 crash testing procedures. For side impacts, the Rio earned four stars for front-seat occupants and three stars for rear-seat passengers.

Among economy cars, the 2011 Kia Rio boasts one of the nicer interiors available. The Rio sedan offers a good-sized trunk with 11.9 cubic feet of cargo room.

Operating the base Rio’s manual transmission is enjoyable, thanks to a smooth clutch and precise shifter action. The Rio’s handling is solid and predictable, aided by surprisingly precise steering.