2012 Kia Rio EX with Stop-Start Technology

Unlike in Europe and Asia, many Americans have never preferred to drive small cars, but as gas prices have been rising, that is beginning to change. In fact, the sub-compact market is expected to double by 2015, creating increased brand loyalty and Kia has become a trailblazer in the eco/green segment of the automotive industry by introducing the first affordable vehicles in the U.S. to offer "Stop-Start" technology, which cleverly shuts off the engine, instead of letting the car unnecessarily idle. The gas saving system quickly and automatically restarts when accelerating.

The Kia Rio 5-Door is a subcompact hatchback that has stylish contours, an attractive style, spacious front and rear cabin, and a well designed interior that seats five adults comfortably and has high tech features that you would expect in luxury cars, but without the "luxury" price tag.

After undergoing a major makeover, the new Kia Rio is better than ever and can complete with many of the top subcompact cars in the industry with its high sculpted lines, distinctive grille, and aerodynamic spoiler. The Rio has been designed to offer a complete blend of quality, world-class design, safety features, safety, fuel efficiency, and state of the art technology that is practical and affordable.

The Idle Stop & Go feature is available in many luxury vehicles, such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche, but now it is also available in the Kio Rio yielding 31 mpg in the city and 40 on the highway, benefiting drivers who daily commute in heavy stop/go traffic in urban areas. The $400 system includes a battery, heavy duty starter, and adds 7% mpg city efficiency. The Idle Stop & Go (ISG) switches off the engine when the vehicle comes to a full stop and restarts when accelerating. The system is very consistent, but I noticed some pedestrians look at the car when they hear the engine restart.

All Rios are powered by a 1.6-liter gasoline direct-injection 4-cylinder engine that delivers 138 horsepower, 123 lb-ft of torque, and come with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is quick, the brakes have great modulation, and the new transmission and engine deliver impressive fuel economy. The interior front cabin boasts of plush materials, uncluttered controls, legible displays, and illuminated three-dial cluster behind the steering wheel. The seats are comfortable and supportive and there is plenty of headroom and legroom for taller passengers in both the front and rear cabin.

Standard features include power windows, a height-adjustable driver's seat, sliding center console, and trip computer available at a starting MSRP of only $14,095. The EX trim offers push-button ignition, 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, power sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, Bluetooth, a rear-view camera, heated steering wheel, a cooling glove box, satellite radio. You can get all of this and more with the EX Luxury trim for less than $21,000.

All of Kia's models include a 10-year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, 5-year/100,000 mile limited anti-perforation warranty, 5-year/60,000 mile limited basic warranty, and a 5-year/60,000 mile 24-hour roadside assistance.

The new 2012 Kia Rio EX 5DR Hatchback with Stop-Start Technology offers great value in its class with features that rival top competitors.

I found the Kio Rio to be very comfortable, easy to drive, picks up quickly, and handles highways with ease. It is the kind of car that is great for young and old alike. It is also inexpensive and has a unique style.

If you have been looking for a vehicle that is stylish, comfortable, fun to drive, and affordable, then I highly recommend that you check out the new 2012 Kia Rio EX 5DR Hatchback.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Voices (online)