Driving Impressions

More horsepower equals more pleasant riding and driving. The new V6 provides more than adequate torque for city driving and highway cruising, and is a significant improvement over the previous-generation engine's disappointing acceleration. On pavement, the independent front and solid-axle rear suspension provide a firm but overall agreeable ride. However, bumps and sharp impacts can intrude into the cabin. Steering feels good and body roll is minimal around corners. The truck-based frame and low-range transfer case are great for off-road trails.

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    Refinement
    The levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) in the Magentis's cabin are particularly low, thanks to a studied programme of measures. These include sound-proofing foam in hollow sections of ...

    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 syst ...

    Interior overview
    1. Door lock/unlock button 2. Power window switches 3. Outside rearview mirror control switch (if equipped) 4. Hood release lever 5. Instrument panel illumination (if equipped) 6. Electronic st ...