Kia Rio EX Trim Review– What You Need to Know!
If you’re considering the 2025 Kia Rio EX, you’re in for a well-equipped, reliable, and efficient subcompact car. With its combination of affordability, tech features, and practicality, the EX trim stands out in the Kia Rio lineup. In this breakdown, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Kia Rio EX, including performance, features, pricing, and comparisons with other trims. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly car with premium perks, the Kia Rio EX may be your best option.
Check our Inventory for a Used Kia Rio Ex at Kia 417!Kia Rio EX Overview: Is It Worth It?
The Kia Rio EX is the top-tier trim of the 2025 Kia Rio lineup, offering features beyond the standard LX and S trims. It’s the ideal choice for those who want advanced technology, improved safety, and enhanced comfort without stepping into the price range of larger sedans or SUVs.
- Starting Price: Approx. CAD $23,495 / USD $17,295 (Kia Canada, 2024).
- Fuel Economy: 6.0 L/100 km (39 mpg US) combined (Natural Resources Canada, 2024).
- Horsepower: 120 hp from a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine.
- Transmission: Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT).
- Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD).
- Cargo Space: 388 L (13.7 cu ft) trunk capacity.
Performance Breakdown: Is the Kia Rio EX Efficient?
The Kia Rio EX is powered by a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine, producing 120 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. While it’s not a performance car, it offers smooth acceleration, responsive steering, and excellent fuel efficiency, making it a great commuter vehicle.
Fuel Economy Comparison: Kia Rio Trims
The EX trim offers the same fuel efficiency as the lower trims but includes additional tech and comfort features. Here’s how it compares:
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | Fuel Economy (mpg US) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX | 1.6L 4-cylinder | IVT | 6.0 | 39 |
| S | 1.6L 4-cylinder | IVT | 6.0 | 39 |
| EX | 1.6L 4-cylinder | IVT | 6.0 | 39 |
(Data: Natural Resources Canada, 2024)
With a fuel tank capacity of 45L (11.9 gallons US), the Rio EX has an impressive driving range of up to 750 km (466 miles) per full tank. That means fewer stops at the pump and more time on the road.
Technology and Features: What Makes the EX Trim Stand Out?
The 2025 Kia Rio EX is loaded with premium tech and comfort features that elevate it beyond the base trims.
Standard vs. EX Trim Features
| Feature | Kia Rio LX | Kia Rio S | Kia Rio EX |
| Touchscreen Display | 8-inch | 8-inch | 8-inch |
| Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Camera Display | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Front Seats | No | No | Yes |
| Heated Steering Wheel | No | No | Yes |
| Smart Key w/ Push-Button Start | No | No | Yes |
| Wireless Phone Charging | No | No | Yes |
| Sunroof | No | No | Yes |
(Data: Kia Canada, 2024)
The EX trim adds premium features like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, push-button start, and wireless charging, making it feel like a higher-end vehicle without the luxury price tag.
Check our Inventory for a Used Kia Rio Ex at Kia 417!Safety Features: Is the Kia Rio EX a Safe Car?
Safety is one of the biggest upgrades in the EX trim compared to lower models. While the Rio EX is not equipped with advanced driver-assist features like Kia’s higher-end models, it still provides crucial safety features:
- Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Crash Test Ratings
The 2025 Kia Rio EX has received high safety ratings:
- NHTSA Rating: 4.5/5 stars
- IIHS Rating: Top Safety Pick (for small cars)
(Data: IIHS & NHTSA, 2024)
How Does the Kia Rio EX Compare to Competitors?
The 2025 Kia Rio EX competes with Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Accent, and Nissan Versa in the subcompact category. Here’s how it compares:
| Model | Horsepower | Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | Starting Price (CAD/USD) |
| Kia Rio EX | 120 hp | 6.0 | CAD $23,495 / USD $17,295 |
| Toyota Yaris | 106 hp | 6.2 | CAD $24,490 / USD $18,000 |
| Hyundai Accent | 120 hp | 6.1 | CAD $23,990 / USD $17,700 |
| Nissan Versa | 122 hp | 6.5 | CAD $24,200 / USD $18,100 |
(Data: Toyota Canada, Hyundai Canada, Nissan Canada, 2024)
The Rio EX provides a balance of affordability, power, and fuel economy, making it a smart choice among subcompact sedans.
Check our Inventory for a Used Kia Rio Ex at Kia 417!Price and Value: Is the Kia Rio EX Worth Buying?
The 2025 Kia Rio EX starts at approximately CAD $23,495 / USD $17,295, making it one of the most affordable fully-equipped small cars. With Kia’s industry-leading warranty (5 years/100,000 km or 60,000 miles) and low maintenance costs, it offers long-term savings.
Want to see the latest Kia Rio deals? Check out our used inventory and for similar models check out our new car specials!
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Kia Rio EX?
The Kia Rio EX is the best trim for those who want premium features, excellent fuel economy, and affordability. If you’re looking for a reliable, tech-filled, and budget-friendly car, the Rio EX is a fantastic option.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Excellent fuel efficiency (6.0L/100 km or 39 mpg US)
- Premium features like heated seats & wireless charging
- Industry-leading warranty (5 years/100,000 km)
- Affordable price compared to competitors
Cons:
- No AWD option
- No hybrid or electric powertrain available
- Limited advanced driver-assist features
Want to test drive the Kia Rio EX? Contact Kia 417 to inquire today!
Sources
- Natural Resources Canada, 2024. “Fuel Consumption Ratings for 2025 Kia Rio.”
- Kia Canada, 2024. “Kia Rio Trims and Features.”
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 2024. “2025 Kia Rio Safety Ratings.”
- Toyota Canada, Hyundai Canada, Nissan Canada, 2024. “Subcompact Car Comparison.”
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2024. “Crash Test Ratings.”
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Check our Inventory for a Used Kia Rio Ex at Kia 417!Disclaimer: The details and specifications mentioned in this blog about the vehicle or its variants are based on current information and release speculations. Availability, features, and pricing may vary and are subject to change without notice. This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer or guarantee of availability. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please get in touch with us.
