Handling and Braking

Considering it’s one of the least expensive affordable small cars in the class, the 2011 Kia Rio handles very well. Test drivers report that its ride is smooth and stable, and the cabin is quiet at highway speeds. They do caution, however, that the Rio’s suspension doesn’t absorb a lot of bumps on rough roads. You’ll have to pay more for a car with a smoother ride, like the Kia Forte. It costs $1,650 more but offers more standard features than nearly any car in the class and a better suspension. If the Forte is too expensive, don’t worry; the Rio is well suited for city driving and will meet most drivers’ needs just fine.

    See also:

    Interior light
    CAUTION: Do not use the interior lights for extended periods when the engine is not running. It may cause battery discharge. Map lamp • : Push the switch to turn the map lamp on or off. Th ...

    Parking brake
    Checking the parking brake Check the stroke of the parking brake by counting the number of “clicks’’ heard while fully applying it from the released position. Also, the parking brake alon ...

    Climate control system
    1. Temperature control knob 2. Air conditioning button (if equipped) 3. Air intake control button 4. Mode selection knob 5. Fan speed control knob Fan speed control knob Four (4) adjustable ...