Small car, big decision: ford fiesta vs kia rio 2017 – the ultimate guide

In the automotive world, the subcompact hatchback segment is a highly competitive arena, with automakers vying for market share by offering a compelling blend of affordability, practicality, and style. Two of the most popular contenders in this category are the Ford Fiesta and the Kia Rio, both of which have received significant attention in the 2017 model year. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricate details of the Ford Fiesta vs. Kia Rio 2017, examining their key features, performance, fuel efficiency, safety, and overall value proposition to help you make an informed decision about your next subcompact hatchback purchase.

Design and Styling

The Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio 2017 present distinct design philosophies. The Fiesta exudes a sporty and aggressive stance, featuring a sculpted front fascia with a prominent grille and sharp headlights. Its sleek silhouette is accentuated by aerodynamic lines and a sloping roofline, giving it a dynamic presence on the road.

In contrast, the Kia Rio 2017 adopts a more understated and refined approach. Its exterior is characterized by fluid curves, a smooth grille, and angular headlights. The Rio’s overall design conveys a sense of elegance and sophistication, appealing to buyers who prioritize a polished and mature aesthetic.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the cabins, the Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio 2017 offer contrasting experiences. The Fiesta’s interior is centered around a driver-oriented cockpit, with a sporty steering wheel and a sleek dashboard that houses an intuitive infotainment system. The seats provide ample support and bolstering, ensuring a comfortable driving position.

The Kia Rio 2017, on the other hand, boasts a more spacious and accommodating interior. Its cabin is designed to maximize passenger comfort, with wide seats and plenty of headroom and legroom. The dashboard is laid out in a user-friendly manner, with clear and easy-to-read controls.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio 2017 offer different driving dynamics. The Fiesta is powered by a punchy 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 120 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque. Its responsive handling and agile chassis make it a delight to drive on winding roads, providing a sporty and engaging experience.

The Kia Rio 2017, equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque, offers a more relaxed and comfortable driving experience. Its suspension is tuned for a smoother ride, making it well-suited for daily commutes and long-distance journeys.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for subcompact hatchback buyers. The Ford Fiesta 2017 achieves an impressive EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway with its standard six-speed manual transmission. The optional six-speed automatic transmission slightly reduces fuel economy to 30 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.

The Kia Rio 2017 is also competitive in terms of fuel efficiency. Its standard six-speed manual transmission yields an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The available six-speed automatic transmission improves fuel economy to 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.

Safety Features

Both the Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio 2017 come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to ensure the well-being of occupants. Standard safety features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control.

The Ford Fiesta offers additional advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, as part of its optional safety package. The Kia Rio 2017 also provides a range of advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, but these features are only available on higher trim levels.

Value Proposition

The Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio 2017 offer compelling value propositions in the subcompact hatchback segment. The Fiesta’s starting price is slightly lower than the Rio’s, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Fiesta’s higher fuel economy and more engaging driving dynamics may justify the slight premium for some buyers.

The Kia Rio 2017 offers a more spacious and comfortable interior, along with a longer warranty and a more extensive list of standard features. While its starting price is slightly higher than the Fiesta’s, the Rio’s overall value proposition may be more appealing to buyers who prioritize space, comfort, and peace of mind.

The Verdict: Ford Fiesta vs. Kia Rio 2017

The Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio 2017 are both excellent subcompact hatchbacks that offer unique strengths and appeal to different types of buyers. The Fiesta is the choice for those who prioritize a sporty driving experience, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The Rio, on the other hand, is the better option for buyers who value space, comfort, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio 2017 depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Test drive both vehicles and compare their features, performance, and overall driving experience to make an informed decision about which subcompact hatchback is the right fit for you.

Alternatives to Consider

In addition to the Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio 2017, there are several other noteworthy subcompact hatchbacks worth considering:

• Honda Fit: Known for its exceptional interior space and versatility
• Hyundai Accent: Offers a well-rounded package with good fuel economy and a spacious interior
• Mazda2: Provides a premium driving experience with a refined interior and sporty handling
• Toyota Yaris: Renowned for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs
• Volkswagen Golf: A benchmark in the subcompact hatchback segment, offering a sophisticated driving experience and a high level of refinement

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is more fuel-efficient, the Ford Fiesta or Kia Rio 2017?

A: The Ford Fiesta 2017 has a slight edge in fuel efficiency, achieving up to 43 mpg on the highway with its manual transmission.

Q: Does the Kia Rio 2017 offer more interior space than the Ford Fiesta?

A: Yes, the Kia Rio 2017 has a more spacious interior, with more headroom, legroom, and cargo space than the Ford Fiesta.

Q: Which vehicle has a better warranty?

A: The Kia Rio 2017 offers a longer warranty than the Ford Fiesta, with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty.