We spent time in an LX automatic and a Rio5 SX manual. We enjoyed shifting the manual as it definitely makes for a more sporty experience. However, the LX with the automatic transmission was no slouch. Cars in this class traditionally suffer a big performance and fuel economy hit with an automatic, but the new Rio confirms that modern transmissions have largely addressed these deficiencies.

Kia claims it is making its cars more sporty and athletic than the Hyundai Accent, the Rio's sibling. The Rio is far from being a sporty car, but the SX handled nimbly without too much body lean or sloppy handling. The LX with its skinner 14-inch tires was not quite as secure, although most drivers would not complain.

The power steering, which stiffens up as the engine speed increases, felt taught with just the right amount of feel dialed in. We did not try a base model, which comes without the power steering.