Palmen Kia of Kenosha

2013 Kia Rio vs 2013 Chevy Sonic

What a difference a few years makes. Putting a Kia product against a Chevy might not have been a great result for Kia a few years ago – especially the Rio. But thanks to a design-led transformation that has completely rebooted the Kia franchise, we have a real competition on our hands in the battle of 2013 Kia Rio vs 2013 Chevy Sonic. In fact, you might even be surprised by some of the deciding factors in this one. But, of course, you’ll have to read on for the full details.

What is most important to consumers in the subcompact market? You might right away think fuel mileage. We’ll get there – but the factor we were referring to is price. And in this category the Kia wins, as it is one of the most affordably priced vehicles on the market today. This may not be a change from the past for the Rio – but what is a change are the other factors. The Rio is actually a very stylish and very well-built little car.

Like we said, a competition of 2013 Kia Rio vs 2013 Chevy Sonic wouldn’t be complete without factoring in fuel mileage. In this area, the Rio outshines the Sonic by a small margin. The Rio tops out at 37 MPG highway fuel economy, while a similarly equipped Sonic gets a top number of 35 MPG highway. So as far as the two factors that subcompact owners really appreciate – fuel economy and price – the Rio tops the competition.

As for the performance of the two vehicles, you will have to decide for yourself. The Rio and Sonic offer an identical 138 horsepower and have similar performance packages – so this one is a judgment call on the side of the consumer.

In the end, you are probably doing well to wind up with either the Kia Rio or Sonic. But in a straight-up competition of 2013 Kia Rio vs 2013 Chevy Sonic, the Rio simply offers more advantages for a lower starting price. And when it comes to cars, more for less is always a good thing.