2015 Kia Rio vs 2016 Kia Rio Model Comparison

Ever since its initial inception in the 1990s, the Kia Rio has been one of Kia's flagship vehicles. The four-door vehicle has been lauded for its different exterior configurations, as well as its overall value, inviting cabin, and strong engine performance. Here at Folsom Lake Kia, we have witnessed the evolution of the Kia Rio throughout the years, and we're thrilled that we now have the new 2016 Kia Rio on our lot. Of course, we still carry the 2015 version of the car as well, which is an excellent vehicle in its own right.

Previous Model Year

The 2015 Kia Rio is a well-reviewed four-door car that comes in both hatchback and subcompact sedan configurations. This model is well-known for providing a great bang for your buck in the automotive business, and this is certainly true of the 2015 version of the car. The base LX trim comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels, a height-adjustable driver seat, a USB audio jack, and satellite radio. If you decide to upgrade to the high-end SX trim, you'll get even more features, such as 17-inch alloy wheels, LED taillights and running lights, dual exhaust tips, steering-wheel-mounted transmission paddle shifters, and metal-trimmed pedals. Under the hood, the Rio comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out 138 horsepower and 123-pound-per-foot of torque. Environmentally-minded buyers will want to include the Eco package, which adds an auto stop-start system that shuts the engine down when the car comes to a stop and restarts it when the driver lifts off the brake.

Latest Model Year

While the 2015 Kia Rio received plenty of accolades, people looking for the newest model will be happy with the 2016 Kia Rio. Building on the accomplishments of the previous model year, the newest model has everything that was great about the car and makes it even better. First of all, both the sedan and hatchback receive a restyled grille and taillights on the exterior. This means that the car avoids the awkward proportions that plague other subcompact cars. The cabin also received an upgrade, with new materials and additional sound insulation. Meanwhile, a new Designer package on the EX trim adds two-tone upholstery and gray accent stitching. On the technology front, the Uvo infotainment system has been updated to now include a seven-inch touchscreen interface and a rearview camera. Finally, all versions of the 2016 Kia Rio now come standard with six-speed automatic transmission, rather than manual.

Sacramento- and Roseville-area drivers looking for an affordable car that satisfies in terms of its powertrain, interior comforts, technology features, and attractive exterior should look into the Kia Rio. Our Folsom Kia dealership loves to sell this new Kia vehicle, and whether you're interested in buying the 2015 or the 2016 version, you can be sure that you're getting a car that's dependable, affordable, and feature-filled. If you're ready to give either car a whirl, head on over to 12751 Folsom Boulevard to find the perfect Kia for you!