Design
For 2006, side body panels have been enhanced by exaggerated wheel flares stamped into the sheet metal, adding just enough testosterone to move the 2006 Kia Rio from feminine to unisex.
When designing or redesigning a vehicle, it seems that manufacturers go one of three routes – conservative, risky, or somewhere in between. With their generic shapes and expressionless front ends, the previous Rio models were as tight-cheeked as cars get. However, Kia designers apparently dipped into some soju when sketching the new Rio, with the result being a compact car that offers an edgier look, serving to add a bit of flair to this segment. For 2006, side body panels have been enhanced by exaggerated wheel flares stamped into the sheet metal, adding just enough testosterone to move the Rio from feminine to unisex. This can also be seen in the new black mesh grille, lower air dam inserts, and more pronounced hood lines. But, the most significant changes are seen when comparing the 2005 Rio Cinco and the 2006 Rio5. Whereas the Cinco was a compact wagon, the Rio5 SX is a true five-door hatchback, with a short rear overhang that lends a much sportier appearance. The SX’s look is further accented with integrated front fog lights, five-spoke alloy wheels, and a body-color rear spoiler. Evidenced here, again, are the cracks in what was once a conservative design dictum. That same mentality has been carried over to the Rio’s interior, which offers a fresh, more contemporary appearance. Last year’s shapeless dash has been swapped out for a two-tone contoured design, and cupholders that have been repositioned rear of the shift knob. Optional power controls are logically placed on the driver’s door panel, and the climate controls, consisting of three simple yet effective rotary dials, are placed in the center of the dash. Just above is the radio (if equipped), which has been thoughtfully angled toward the driver and, like the climate control system, features clearly marked knobs and buttons for volume, tuning, mode, and station presets. Rio5 SX models add silver accents to the pedals, radio surround, and steering wheel inserts, while leather is stitched onto the steering wheel and shift knob. Those patches of leather have a quality feel, surprising for a car in this price range. The remaining interior materials are also better than you’d expect from one of America’s least expensive vehicles, among them mostly hard but sturdy plastics with a matte finish. Overall build quality was impressive, with only a few misaligned interior and exterior panels, exposed screws holding the visors in place, and some visible plastic casting around the steering column.
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