Kia Rio review

What the Rio might lack in more dynamic areas it makes up for in standard equipment, although let’s ignore the 1 shall we? Kia seems to be following the restaurant rule that everyone buys the second cheapest bottle of wine.

From 2-spec upwards you get an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, cruise control and reversing camera. The 2 also starts with 15in alloys, going up in inch increments with each upgrade.

The 3 adds heated seats and steering wheel to the mix (a godsend on a cold day), automatic aircon and satnav, while the boost to GT-Line S adds front parking sensors, keyless go and a few smartened bits of interior trim.

If you’re particularly forgetful, the 3 and GT-Line S models come equipped for pairing with Kia’s UVO app, which lets you check on things like how much petrol you’ve got in the tank and where you’ve left the car.

The interior is all very grown-up whichever spec you go for – smart, if slightly forgettable… at least it’ll age well. The main cabin functions all get practical buttons, which is a positive delight amid the current fever for minimalist layouts.

The driving position is likewise practical – all versions of the Rio get height adjustment on the comfortable driver’s seat and a tilting, telescopic steering wheel.

There’s impressive room in the back for a supermini, and you get three head restraints and seat belts and two Isofix points. There are no vents back there, but you do get seatback storage, cupholders in the doors and a USB charging port (but not on the 1, of course).

The boot is a decent size too and has a side bin and a bag hook – capacity is a respectable 325 litres, bested only by the Hyundai i20 and Honda Jazz.