Efficiency revolution: ford fusion vs. kia rio – the fuel-saving giants
What To Know
- The Fusion’s fuel economy ranges from 23 mpg in the city to 34 mpg on the highway, while the Rio’s fuel economy ranges from 28 mpg in the city to 39 mpg on the highway.
- The Fusion received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all crash tests conducted by the IIHS.
- The Rio received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all crash tests conducted by the IIHS, except for the small overlap front passenger-side crash test, in which it received an “Acceptable” rating.
In the realm of compact cars, the Ford Fusion and Kia Rio stand out as two formidable contenders. While both vehicles offer practicality and affordability, their distinct features and capabilities cater to different preferences. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the Ford Fusion and Kia Rio, helping you make an informed decision when choosing your next compact companion.
Dimensions and Space
The Ford Fusion is a midsize sedan, while the Kia Rio is a subcompact sedan. This difference in size is evident in their dimensions. The Fusion is longer, wider, and taller than the Rio, providing more interior space for passengers and cargo. The Fusion offers a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. In contrast, the Rio’s interior is more compact, offering less legroom for taller individuals. The Fusion also boasts a larger trunk capacity of 16 cubic feet compared to the Rio’s 13.7 cubic feet.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Under the hood, the Ford Fusion offers a wider range of engine options. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 175 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. Upgrade options include a 1.5-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder with 181 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder with 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 with 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque.
The Kia Rio, on the other hand, offers a single engine option: a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 120 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque. While the Rio’s engine is less powerful than the Fusion’s base engine, it offers comparable fuel economy. The Fusion’s fuel economy ranges from 23 mpg in the city to 34 mpg on the highway, while the Rio’s fuel economy ranges from 28 mpg in the city to 39 mpg on the highway.
Features and Technology
The Ford Fusion and Kia Rio offer a range of features and technologies to enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. The Fusion comes standard with a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a driver assistance suite that includes lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Available features include a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled seats, and a premium audio system.
The Kia Rio offers a more limited selection of features. The base model comes with a smaller touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Available features include keyless entry, push-button start, and a navigation system.
Safety Ratings
Both the Ford Fusion and Kia Rio have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Fusion received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all crash tests conducted by the IIHS. The Rio received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all crash tests conducted by the IIHS, except for the small overlap front passenger-side crash test, in which it received an “Acceptable” rating.
Price and Value
The Ford Fusion has a higher starting price than the Kia Rio. The base Fusion SE starts at $24,095, while the base Rio S starts at $16,990. However, the Fusion offers a wider range of trim levels and features, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and budget. The Rio offers fewer trim levels and features, but it provides a more affordable entry point into the compact sedan segment.
Which Car is Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision between the Ford Fusion and Kia Rio depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize space, performance, and features, the Ford Fusion is the better choice. If you prioritize affordability, fuel economy, and a more compact size, the Kia Rio is the better choice.
The Bottom Line: Making the Right Choice
Choosing between the Ford Fusion and Kia Rio is a matter of balancing your priorities. Both vehicles offer their own unique advantages, and the best decision depends on your specific needs and budget. By carefully considering the key differences highlighted in this guide, you can make an informed choice that will provide you with a compact car that meets your expectations and exceeds your needs.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which car has more horsepower?
A: The Ford Fusion has more horsepower than the Kia Rio. The Fusion’s base engine produces 175 horsepower, while the Rio’s base engine produces 120 horsepower.
Q: Which car has better fuel economy?
A: The Kia Rio has better fuel economy than the Ford Fusion. The Rio’s fuel economy ranges from 28 mpg in the city to 39 mpg on the highway, while the Fusion’s fuel economy ranges from 23 mpg in the city to 34 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which car has a larger trunk?
A: The Ford Fusion has a larger trunk than the Kia Rio. The Fusion’s trunk capacity is 16 cubic feet, while the Rio’s trunk capacity is 13.7 cubic feet.