The 5-door has actually dropped from a $16,695 starting point to $13,695,

Whether in four- or five-door guise, it's now much more than merely an A to B commuter. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

a savings of $3,000! Of course, this just means it can be had with fewer options in base form, a good thing as it opens up what is a more functional model to many more potential buyers. Where the previous RX-V topped out $18,095 when fully optioned out, the new model's sticker never gets higher than $16,995 - $1,100 in savings!

These prices are hard to beat, so even if you're considering a compact model, take a ride in the reasonably large Rio first. Whether in four- or five-door guise, it's a satisfying little car that's now much more than merely an A to B commuter.

Specifications:

• Price (EX 4-door - Rio5 EX Sport base MSRP): $13,295 - $16,995
• Body Type: 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback
  
• Layout: front engine, FWD Engine: 110 hp, 107 lb-ft, 1.6L, 16-valve, DOHC, I-4
• Transmission: 5-spd manual Opt. Trans: 4-spd automatic
• Brakes (front/rear): disc / drum
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (4-door trunk): 337 L (11.9 cu ft)
  
• Cargo Volume (5-door hatch seats up/folded): 448 /  1,405 L (15.8 / 49.6 cu ft) 
• Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Aveo, Hyundai Accent, Pontiac Wave, Suzuki Swift+, Toyota Echo Hatchback
  
• Website: www.kia.ca