Kia Rio5 vs Honda Fit

Recent improvements in driving performance and interior styling have led many mid-size sedan owners to make the switch to subcompact cars. Choosing a vehicle from this class often involves a Kia Rio5 vs. Honda Fit comparison. Although the Honda Fit was nearly synonymous with subcompact cars at one time, the Kia Rio5 has made great strides to become one of the most desirable cars in this class.

This buying guide is a comparison of these two car makes and models. It provides a general overview of each model and looks at driving performance, interior and safety. This information should help you decide whether a Kia Rio5 or Honda Fit is the right car for you.

Prices

The Rio5 is the hatchback version of the Rio model. It comes in three trims: LX, EX and SX. The MSRP is $13,800 for the LX, $16,700 for the EX and $17,900 for the SX. The Honda Fit is available in two trims: base and sport. The MSRP is $15,425 for the former and $17,160 for the latter. Price is comparable between the two manufacturers, though Kia offers a significantly lower price point in the LX.

Reviews praise the Rio5's stylish interior and exterior and its relatively big feel for a small car. The Honda Fit offers the most cargo space and interior versatility for a subcompact car.

Performance and fuel economy

Driving performance is one of the most important aspects of a Kia Rio5 vs. Honda Fit comparison. Both models feature a four-cylinder engine. The Rio5's is slightly larger at 1.6 liters compared to the 1.5-liter engine in a Honda Fit. The Rio5 SX and the manual transmission Fit Sport both go from 0 to 60 mph in about 9.5 seconds. This figure increases to 11 seconds for the automatic transmission Fit Sport.

The Rio5 performs slightly better than the Fit in the fuel economy department. The LX, EX and SX models have EPA ratings of 29-30 miles per gallon for city driving and 36-37 mpg for highway driving. The Fit base model has a fuel economy of 28 mpg in the town and 35 miles per gallon on the open road. The Fit Sport is slightly less efficient at 27 mpg for city driving and 33 mpg for highway driving.

Interior

The interior of the Rio5 EX and SX is especially impressive. The LX uses basic materials with no added features, but the EX and SX have metallic accents and armrest cushions. The materials are also higher quality, giving the EX and SX one of the most impressive interiors in the subcompact class. All of the trims have enough space to comfortably seat four adults, and they all feature Bluetooth capability and an iPod input for the stereo.

The Honda Fit has the most cargo space of any subcompact car. You can fold the rear seats and the front passenger seat, giving the car more loading options than the Rio5. However, the Fit's interior is less appealing and noisier than the Rio5's.

Safety ratings

Both models received four out of five stars in government overall crash protection ratings. However, a Kia Rio5 vs. Honda Fit safety comparison shows a few important differences between the two vehicles. The Rio5 actually scored five out of five stars for side protection while the Fit received four stars. The Rio5 also offers better braking than the Fit. It comes to a stop from 60 mph in about 120 feet, and the Fit stops in about 135 feet. Both models have front side airbags and side curtain airbags.

Get local price quotes for the Kia Rio5 vs Honda Fit now!

The Honda Fit may have been the standard bearer for subcompact cars in the past, but the Kia Rio5 has caught up. The Rio5 actually performs better than the Fit in numerous categories, including fuel economy, interior styling and safety. However, the Fit still offers superior cargo space and loading options.

Use Buyerlink to find the best price quotes in your area. They can provide lease and warranty options and a full overview of the cost of ownership for the Rio5 and the Fit. This Kia Rio5 vs. Honda Fit comparison may give an edge to the Rio5, but consulting a professional is still the best way to determine which car is right for you.