2021 Kia Rio5 Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Hatchbacks are a dying breed in the United States, as evidenced by the fact that there are just a few new-car options available today. Kia...

Hatchbacks are a dying breed in the United States, as evidenced by the fact that there are just a few new-car options available today. Kia isn’t one to be dissuaded by the evidence, however, and has updated its Rio5 for the 2021 model year with desirable new features.

Like its four-door sedan counterpart, the Rio five-door hatch was refreshed with new front-end styling, which includes a new bumper and grille for a sportier look. Also updated is the infotainment system, which now gets a standard 8-inch touchscreen that runs wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Rio5 is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four that makes 120 horsepower and 112 pound-feet of torque—just like the sedan. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CTV) and front-wheel drive (FWD). That powertrain is good for EPA-estimated fuel economy of 33/41/36 mpg city/highway/combined.

Inside, every Rio five-door gets tricot and woven cloth upholstery, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, and a 60/40 folding rear seat.

The technology on offer in the Rio5 is robust, especially considering its budget positioning. Beyond the new touchscreen and smartphone interfaces, the car gets six speakers with front tweeters, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth, voice controls, USB ports for input and charging, a 12-volt outlet, and more.

The Rio hatchback can be upgraded with several advanced safety features, but none come standard. Forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, lane-follow assist, lane-departure warnings, and a driver attention warning system are available. Those features are part of the S Technology Package, which also brings LED headlights and positioning lights, automatic climate controls, rear-occupant alerts, allow wheels, and a smart key system with push-button start.

The 2021 Kia Rio5 is on sale now with a starting price of $17,955—which includes a $995 destination charge. The Technology Package adds $1,800 to the bottom line.