The Rio is the low price anchor of a rapidly growing Kia lineup that includes the Sephia compact sedan, the Sportage mini-ute, the new Spectra 5-door hatchback and a V6-powered sedan called the Optima coming during 2001 plus a full-size minivan that will join the lineup during the 2002 model year. As such, the Rio will be offered as one model only but with an upgrade package and several standalone options. The Rio costs less than Hyundai's subcompact, the Accent, which for 2000 had a base price of $8,999.
The Rio's $380 upgrade package includes power steering, tilt wheel, full wheel covers, dual covered vanity mirrors and body-color side moldings. Options include an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission ($875), four-wheel anti-lock brakes ($400), a rear spoiler ($85), air conditioning ($750), and a choice of an AM/FM/cassette ($320) or AM/FM/CD audio systems ($395). Options are limited, as Kia wants to keep the Rio as strictly an entry-level car and keep it priced that way.
A uniquely styled hatchback, with a roofline that somewhat resembles a mini Saab wagon, is available in other markets, but not immediately in the North America. Kia Motors America may and, in our opinion, should import it, as it's the better looking of the two models and has its own funky charm.