2016 Kia Rio Sedan and 5-Door Hatch Debut with Minor Tweaks in Chicago

Kia's Rio family of subcompact cars are sold globally and with the exception of Chinese models which are square, all look the same. They've never been able to compete with the popularity of the Ford Fiesta, but Kia has always kept equipment levels high and prices low, which is just what's going on with the 2016 models.

Both the hatch and the sedan get the same revised front and rear bumpers, new grille and fog lights. The changes aren't drastic, but two new colors may grab your attention. One is called Urban Blue and the other is Digital Yellow, which you can check out on the hatchback model with the 17-inch wheels in our photo gallery.

For 2016, the Rio continues to be gas-only in the US. The standard engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 138hp at 6,300 rpm and 123lb-ft (187Nm) of torque at 4,850 rpm. You can either have it with a manual or six-speed automatic, with no revisions to economy or performance in either case. However, the six-speed stick is no longer offered in the Rio 5-Door because of slow sales.

Inside, they've added some satin-finished bezels around the air vents and a new piano black center console surround. Kia say their updated UVO eServices technology will also be available, but other than that everything is the same.

Both models continue to be offered in three trim levels: LX, EX and the top-line SX.  Standard kit includes air conditioning, satellite radio, USB and auxiliary audio jacks, steering wheel mounted audio control. Full-spec SX cars have 17-inch polished wheels, a reversing camera, navigation, leather seating surfaces with front seat heaters and a power sunroof.