With gas prices higher than ever and EV prices not exactly affordable, you may be feeling a bit panicky if you’re on a budget and on the market for a new car. Relax, and take a deep breath because Kia has the answer to your prayers.
The 2023 Kia Rio S in Albuquerque NM is a budget-friendly subcompact sedan that gets great gas mileage and treats you with a nice bit of technology. This unassuming little runabout has everything you need to get you through the morning commute, but unlike its base LX sibling, it also has some nicer-than-basic touches like a center console with a storage bin and a split-folding rear seat. The price difference is minor compared to the LX trim, and you’ll get more standard features. And if you’re worried there isn’t enough safety tech onboard; a Technology package is available for the Rio S for around $1800.
Even with the rising cost of everything around us, sources such as Kelley Blue Book are estimating the price of the 2023 Rio to be somewhat close to the current price. If this proves true, expect the base cost to be around $16,500, which is one of the most inexpensive new cars you can find today! This super low price makes the Rio an easy choice for college-bound students or those needing a good daily commuter.
While the Rio LX is the base model and only available as a sedan, the 2023 Rio S comes as a sedan or hatchback. The slightly higher-priced five-door hatchback version will likely start around $17,500.
Having debuted for the 2018 model year, the Rio received some restyling for 2021, and other than a few minor updates, we don’t expect much change for the upcoming model. Due to waning interest in cars and increased interest in SUVs, many manufacturers are doing away with their extra small sedans like the Rio. Luckily, Kia hasn’t stopped but doesn’t seem likely to make significant investments in their most economical car. For that reason, you shouldn’t expect substantial changes for 2023.
On both the sedan and hatchback 2023 Kia Rio S in Albuquerque NM, you’ll get wireless Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, backup camera, a front and rear USB port, cloth seats, remote keyless entry, cruise control, sliding center armrest, and 60/40 sliding rear seats with adjustable headrests.
The technology package adds LED headlights, 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome door handles, rear disc brakes (as opposed to drum), satellite radio, push-button start, a 4.2-inch driver information display, and automatic climate control. It also adds more driver-assist tech, including lane-keep/lane following assist, auto emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear occupant alert, driver attention warning, and automatic high beams.
The Rio gets its power from a fuel-efficient 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder paired with a continuously variable transmission for virtually undetectable shifting. Although it delivers a humble 120 horsepower, its 112 lb-ft of torque helps this lightweight vehicle go when you need it. What’s more impressive is the way the Rio absorbs bumps for such a small vehicle. Thanks goes to its solidly built structure and well-tuned suspension. It also shines with controlled body rolls in corners and has nicely weighted and precise steering.
Like most sedans, the Rio is front-wheel drive, but unlike most sedans, it rates at 33 mpg city and an incredible 41 mpg highway! And with its nearly 12-gallon fuel tank, you’ll stop less to fill up.
So far, no date has been given as to when the new Rio will make its appearance. But we believe it’s likely to arrive late this summer, or at best, this fall, if ongoing supply issues hamper production. But no matter when it arrives, you can test drive it here at Fiesta Kia, located at 7400 Lomas Blvd NE, right here in Albuquerque, NM.
