I drove through some of the worst weather conditions that I can remember the night previous and never needed anything more than the rather basic front disc, rear drum setup that comes standard across the Rio lineup. Still, I never needed to slam on the binders in order to avoid an oncoming car or deer in the headlights, so I can't really comment on how effective the brakes would be in a panic situation. Sure an experienced

Anyway, the roads were dry and the Rio's 16-valve, DOHC 1.6-litre engine, with its 110-horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, beckoned me. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

driver can often stop within a shorter distance if using non-ABS brakes by modulating the brake pedal, but most of us don't act in such a fashion even if taught how to do so, but rather react instinctively by hammering the brakes while turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction that it needs to go. What can I say? Most of us simply come packaged with a predisposition to screw up when it comes to driving.

Anyway, the roads were dry and the Rio's 16-valve, DOHC 1.6-litre engine, with its continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) enhanced 110-horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, beckoned me. OK, that doesn't sound like a lot of power compared to some of the cars I get to drive and resultantly review in this publication, but factoring in the Rio's nominal 1,104 kilo (2,434 lb) curb weight and the engine is a powerhouse. I remember back in the late '80s when I worked for Toyota, my pocket-rocket MR2 company car had 112-horsepower under its mid-mounted hood, and all my friends looked on in utter amazement. Also putting the Rio's vital statistics into perspective, along with the new Hyundai Accent that shares most under-the-metal components, it's the

Careful application of the throttle will make sure tire squeal is kept to a minimum, after which a firm foot on the pedal results in relatively quick acceleration. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

most powerful in the subcompact class, eclipsing the 106-horsepower Yaris by a nose and decimating the yawn inducing Chevy Aveo, Pontiac Wave, Suzuki Sprint+ triplets - also made in South Korea by the way, but without the benefit of Kia's five-year, 100,000 km, no fuss bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Careful application of the throttle will make sure tire squeal is kept to a minimum, after which a firm foot on the pedal results in relatively quick acceleration. The charge forward is complimented by the car's on-road stability, spoken about previously. Of course, water dissipated with a forecast of clear roads ahead, the Rio's MacPherson strut front suspension and a space-saving torsion beam in rear setup comes across as even more capable than during the previous evening. It manages corners with real competence, much more agile than its predecessor and also more confidence inspiring than the previously mentioned GMDAT (GM Daewoo Auto & Technology) clones.