Interior Features

Test drivers say the Rio and Rio5 have easy-to-read gauges and generally like the layout of the dash, but the praise ends there. The Rio’s barebones interior comes with a four-speaker audio system, a USB auxiliary input jack and a tilt steering column. You’ll have to go up a trim to get other basics like air conditioning and power windows and doors, which will cost you $14,995. Bluetooth is optional, but only on upper trims.

The Kia Forte is a much better deal. Although it’s $1,165 more than the Rio, it’s a great value because you get the basics like air conditioning and modern features like Bluetooth and SIRIUS Satellite Radio that aren’t standard with most affordable small cars.

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    Interior features
    Cigarette lighter To use the cigarette lighter, pull the assembly cover out. To operate the cigarette lighter, press it in and release it. When it is heated, it automatically pops out ready for ...

    Sunroof
    If your vehicle is equipped with this feature, you can slide or tilt your sunroof with the sunroof control buttons located on the overhead console. The sunroof can only be opened, closed, or ti ...

    THE VERDICT
    Kia won’t release pricing for the Optima for another few weeks, but we’re assured it will come in at under $20,000 to start and we expect it to undercut (slightly) the Sonata, which starts at ...