If you conduct a survey among modern car enthusiasts regarding the preferred body type, it becomes clear that the majority owns or wants to have an exclusively sedan in the future. Love for this type of car significantly exceeds the "warm" feelings experienced for other vehicles, made in the form of hatchbacks or. The modern consumer wants to have a full-fledged car that has a spacious luggage compartment and a comfortable cabin with good roominess.
Having visited the car market at least once, almost every motorist will be confused by the type and variety of vehicles presented. A potential buyer from the range presented will be able to choose a car that will exactly match the taste and preference of the buyer. In addition, you can find a car that can also satisfy the financial capabilities of the buyer. If we consider cars with such a body type as a sedan, first of all, you should pay attention to the budget Kia Rio and Volkswagen Polo. Both cars have both strengths and weaknesses, competing regularly with each other. In fact, you need to figure out: which car is better? Naturally, when it comes to the Volkswagen Polo, the unshakable reputation of the German concern comes out on top, which has proven its superiority over the years. As for the Kia Rio, it is worth noting its quality and excellent equipment, which refutes the skepticism about Korean cars.
Comparative analysis of Volkswagen Polo and Kia Rio
The main thing that catches your eye is the attractive exterior, on which the designers of the two companies did a good job. Let's figure out the technical equipment, capabilities, weaknesses and strengths in order to choose a sedan with the best performance and driving parameters.
Volkswagen Polo
For the first time, a Russian consumer saw the Polo in 2010, and in the shortest possible time the presentable sedan gained a whole crowd of fans who want to become the owners of another German novelty. Despite the fact that the Polo cannot be classified as a newfangled innovative vehicle, it was a car that thousands of consumers have tested over time. An efficient, well-functioning car was equipped with the familiar Polo front suspension, a rear typical element from the Golf, belonging to the fourth generation, a 1.6-liter power unit. The main feature that a high-quality sedan possesses is its very attractive appearance. It was possible to achieve a pronounced exterior, which is many times better than its predecessors, by using neat karma and an organic rear pillar, which together gave the car an extraordinary "corporate" appearance.
Car enthusiasts who have ever used Volkswagen cars will be able to notice with pleasure the preserved very characteristic feature associated with the most laconic and simple interior. Along with the existing advantages, some disadvantages should be noted related to the lowered seat for the driver, whose seat, by the way, can be adjusted over a wide range. The budget of the vehicle is emphasized by the lack of quality finishes and good upholstery, which makes the car even better and more affordable.
Some of the advantages are:
- luggage compartment with a capacity of up to 450 liters;
- good loading height for consumer convenience;
- a geometric recess over which you can evenly distribute your existing luggage.
Not to be overlooked is the excellent ride performance, the Volkswagen Polo sedan features a tight suspension, pliable steering and slight roll. The lack of ideal dynamics of the engine is compensated by its reliability. the vehicle can consume not only AI-95, but also AI-92. The modern Polo sedan is a comfortable car for the masses, the car is devoid of pompous delights, attracting those who appreciate quality and can afford a car with an average price.
Kia rio
To make the comparison as honest as possible and to be able to determine the car that is many times better than its rival, the modern Kia Rio sedan should be described in a nutshell. The main advantages of which are extensive options, charisma and bright novelty. A car like the Kia Rio can only be owned by those who, unlike other car owners, want to emphasize their style and preferences. The car wins the hearts of Russians with its trademark "tiger smile", smooth and at the same time sharp lines of stamping, located along the length of the entire body, as well as extraordinary narrow headlights. The appearance of this vehicle is one of its greatest strengths, highlighting the personality and novelty of the Korean vehicle.
At first glance, the Rio sedan seems a little better than the Volkswagen Polo car, especially when you consider the budget that is required to purchase it, however, you need to understand the technical equipment of the car.
Looking into the salon, a potential buyer will see the interior appearance of the car, no less attractive than the exterior. The simple yet attractive dashboard complements the steering unit, which is not height adjustable. One of the minor drawbacks is the inability to put the back of the driver's seat in an upright position.
So that the comparison between Volkswagen Polo and Kia Rio could give a full-fledged monosyllabic answer, the future car owner is better off doing a small test drive himself, which will help the optimal sedan. In practice, it turns out that both machines have features that are characteristic only of them, while simultaneously possessing similar properties that are able to overlap with each other. In fact, the future owner of the sedan must highlight for himself the features that his car should have, for example, such features as laconicism, proven reliability and trust in the German car industry can make a choice in favor of the Volkswagen Polo. If the desire to have a vehicle with an extraordinary design and good driving parameters is put in the first place, the Korean Kia Rio should be preferred.
Indeed, which is better: Volkswagen Polo or Kia Rio? Which public sector employee is the “cheapest and grumpiest”? Here's what to take so that you don't regret it later? We will try to answer these and other questions in this comparison review.
In order for our comparison to be as objective as possible, in the review we will mention both the old Kia Rio 2015-2016 and the new model of 2017. Polo has been sold practically unchanged, if I am not mistaken, since 2010. There is talk that a new generation is coming this year. According to some, the 2018 Volkswagen Polo will "tear" all competitors. Well, wait and see. In the meantime, it will be possible to compare only what we have on the market at the moment.
Body
Dimensions (edit)
The sizes of the cars are almost identical.
The length of the Rio of the previous generation is 4 m 36.6 cm, the new one is 4 m 40 cm. The Polo sedan is 4 m long 38.4 cm. I consider the difference in plus or minus 1.5-2 cm to be negligible. Since such a difference is quite likely due to the shape of the bumpers, it does not affect anything.
The width of the old Kia Rio is 1 m 72 cm, the new one is 1 m 74 cm. By the way, have you noticed that the new Rio 2017 has slightly increased in size? The width of the Volkswagen Polo is still 1 m 69.9 cm.
The height of the Korean state employee is 1 m 45.5 cm for the old version and 1 m 47 cm for the new one. And the height of the German is 1 m 46.7 cm.
The wheelbase of the Kia Rio 2017 has also become larger - 2 m 60 cm versus 2 m 57 cm in the old version. The base of the 2017 Volkswagen Polo is 2 m 55.3 cm. In this case (the old "German" and the new "Korean") the difference is almost 5 cm. Something already.
The clearance of the German sedan is declared more than that of the Korean one - by a few millimeters. But upon closer examination, everything turns out to be the same: about 16 cm. For our roads it is quite normal.
The mass of the cars is also approximately equal. After a small restyling in 2015, the Polo sedan weighs 1163-1208 kg. The weight of the old Rio is 1110-1198 kg, and the new one is 1150-1259 kg. But you can load more into a German car - this is indicated by both passport data and tests of autobloggers. The Korean sedan starts to "sink" earlier.
Appearance
Let's move on to assessing the appearance. I think (and most readers will probably agree with me) that the exterior design for a budget car is one of the main parameters by which the buyer decides in favor of a particular model.
Personally, I like the design of the third generation Kia Rio. It looks quite harmonious and, therefore, attractive. What else does a small car need? By the way, I like the sedan more, although I prefer hatchbacks.
The fourth generation of the miracle of the Korean car industry looks, in principle, also nothing. I especially like her stern, in particular, the taillights, connected by a horizontal strip. But the front optics are somehow not very good. Well, here, as they say, "the taste and color ...".
The look of the Volkswagen Polo has not changed for at least 7 years. The facelift of 2015 does not count, because in fact, only LED daytime running lights in the headlights were added. Personally, until one video blogger drew attention to this, I did not even know - this change is so imperceptible to an ignorant person.
In principle, that the "Korean", that the "German" appearance is quite nothing. My sense of aesthetics doesn't bother anything (other than the shape of the new Kia Rio's headlights). Therefore, we can say that the exterior design was a success. At this stage, I would bet on the five and the old Rio and Polo. If we evaluate the new generation of Rio, then, probably, I will give it a 5 with a minus.
Interior
Design
The interior design of budget cars can be judged, frankly, only by the design of the dashboard and center console. The front seats and the rear sofa do not traditionally differ in special delicacies.
Polo sedan
The 2017 VW Polo salon (in fact, as in the copies of the previous seven years) immediately, as it were, declares its conservatism. There is a German restraint in lines and shapes. Everything is simple and tasteful. If you do not look at the dashboard.
The dashboard is made in such a laconic style that I do not like it. I am not an opponent of conservatism, on the contrary, I often support it. But the Polo Sedan's dashboard looks a little too budgetary. Some kind of baby-mobile. Not seriously.
I'll give you a four.
Old Rio
The front panel of the old Rio looks somehow fresh. It is felt that the design was drawn by younger people. I won't say what I really like, but there is clearly a zest here.
My favorite thing here is the dashboard (as opposed to the German opponent). Young, with a hint of sportiness. I approve.
The part of the center console with the multimedia system seems unfinished. Somehow I don't want to look at her. The eye is definitely not happy.
I also give a four.
New Rio
The most interesting salon in the new Kia Rio 2017 model year. Well, you must agree: it's just interesting to be here. There is no German boring stuff and, at the same time, everything is in its place. The eye rejoices.
The most "tasty" part, I think, is the center console. Both the multimedia part and the climate control unit look very nice.
The dashboard is made restrained, almost like the "Foltz". But, in principle, it will do. Slightly more interesting than his.
I'll bet five with a minus.
Quality of materials
I thought that the quality of the materials would be different. But no, in appearance and touch, everything is practically the same in all compared cars: the plastic is "wooden" and hard, the seat upholstery is simple, even in the highest trim levels.
Judging by the reviews of car owners, in the previous generation of Kia Rio, the materials aged faster. What is meant? For example, the surface of what the hand is taken for: the steering wheel, handles, gearshift lever - worn out faster, the texture disappeared, became smooth. Silver handles became black in places. this black plastic was painted with silver paint.
The Rio's seat fillings are also inferior to those of the Polo. It is noticed that for the same time, they miss out faster.
How the 2018 Kia Rio will show itself remains to be seen in a few years. Perhaps the material situation has been corrected. At least partially.
Volkswagen Polo Sedan does not suffer from this. At least not a word about it in the reviews. Most likely, the good old German approach to business is affected.
At this point, a five for a "German" and a three for a "Korean".
Ergonomics
Let's go over the main points: dashboard, steering wheel, front seats, rear sofa.
Dashboard
The devices are well readable for all compared machines. In this regard, it is difficult to find fault with something. None of the dashboards are overloaded with information. To understand what the speed is, it is enough to cast a fleeting glance at the panel, there is no need to peer for a long time. Five to all.
Steering wheel
The grip of the steering wheel, according to the drivers, is comfortable. Nothing gets in the way. The number of buttons is acceptable. The most important thing, in my opinion, is that the horn is in the center of the steering wheel. It's intuitive - you don't have to look for a button to beep. Again, all five.
Front seats
Here, each model has its own characteristics. According to the reviews of the video bloggers who conducted the test drive, most note the fact that the lateral support of the front seats in the Volkswagen Polo 2016 is better than in the Kia Rio.
In addition, the seats themselves seem to be a little stiffer, plus there is lumbar support. In other words, the front seats in the Polo are more anatomical than those in the Rio.
The new Kia Rio has short front seats. As a result, half of the thighs of long-legged riders hang in the air. In principle, problems arise not only for tall people. On long trips due to this circumstance, the legs become numb in most.
Both the previous and the new generation Rio have problems with the driver's legroom. Sometimes you want to relax your legs by spreading your knees to the sides. So, the Polo Sedan 2016 allows you to do this, but the Kia Rio does not. Little space on the right, knee rests against the center console.
It is clear that the perception of ergonomics and convenience is a purely subjective thing. Therefore, in order to understand exactly what to choose for you, you need to drive each car several times. But judging by the problems described above, I think that the assessment can be made quite objectively. Polo definitely gets five, the old Rio gets four, and the new one gets three.
Rear sofa
The back sofas of budget cars have never been comfortable. Nevertheless, in the Volkswagen Polo they are more comfortable due to the same lumbar support and a stronger tilt angle.
In the old Rio, the seating position is more vertical, which is not very comfortable.
In the new Kia Rio, the situation is slightly corrected with the angle of the backrest, but due to the sloping roof, the head of a tall passenger will rest against the ceiling.
There is more legroom for the rear passengers in the German sedan. But the common drawback is the lack of an armrest in the back sofa. For me personally, this is strange. Why not make an armrest with cup holders, because only two people can fit in the back anyway? Because of this omission, I can only bet a maximum of four. It is received by the conservative "German". The old "Korean" gets a C, and the young one gets a C with a plus.
Trunk
The roof racks are almost the same. The Korean sedan has more. The third generation Rio boasts 500 liters, the fourth - 480 liters. The Polo has even less - 460 liters.
But the German sedan has the largest opening. Therefore, larger things will fit into it. In addition, the boot lid hinges in it take up less storage space when closed.
The roof racks of all vehicles in this comparison can be expanded with a folding rear sofa. In the "German" the seat rises up (as in hatchbacks) and the back rests. In both Rio, the seat does not rise, the back rests right on the seat. Before restyling in 2015, the back of the rear sofa at the Polo was one-piece, but now it is separate - you can lower it in parts. In the "Korean", the backrest was always folded separately.
Only the new Kia Rio has an obvious "jamb" with a trunk. The crux of the problem is that the car has keyless access, and the developers seem to have decided, as we call it, to simply “pontoon”. The idea is for the trunk to open automatically after the key has been near for at least 3 seconds. As a result, this system does not work normally. It opens, then it doesn't. And there is no opening handle outside! You have to either throw bags on the ground and go into your pocket for a key, press a button, or, again, throw bags where you stood, go to the driver's door, open it and pull the lever responsible for opening the trunk (as in the old fashioned way). In general, as a result of the "scientific poke method" you get used to the fact that the trunk is opened only from the passenger compartment. Well, or not to take two hands - one must be free to get the key.
Due to its own shortcomings, the trunk of the old Rio gets 4 points, and the trunk of the new Rio gets a three due to two jambs. The trunk of the Polo gets a five.
Engines and transmissions
Polo sedan
There are 2 engines available for Volkswagen Polo:
- 1.4 turbo 125 hp and 200 Nm at 1400-4000 rpm,
- 1.6 for 90 and 110 hp. and 155 Nm at 3800-4000 rpm.
The turbocharged 1.4 TSI is aggregated by two types of transmissions: 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic. For a 90-horsepower 1.6-liter power unit, only “mechanics” is available, and for a 110-horsepower - both “mechanics” and “automatic”.
According to the passport, Volkswagen Polo 1.6 with 90 hp. accelerates to 100 km / h in 11.2 seconds; The 110-strong version on a manual gearbox accelerates to "hundreds" in 10.4 seconds, and on an automatic transmission - in 11.7 seconds. The Polo 1.4 turbo spends only 9 seconds to accelerate to 100 km / h.
The fuel consumption of all types of Polo engines is almost the same (values for automatic transmission in brackets):
- 1.4 TSI - 7.5 (7.3) L in the city and 4.7 (4.8) liters. on the highway,
- 1.6 / 90 hp - 7.7 liters. in the city and 4.5 liters. outside the city,
- 1.6 / 110 hp - 7.8 (7.9) l. in the urban cycle and 4.6 (4.7) liters. in the extra-urban cycle.
Judging by the technical characteristics, the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine is the most preferable in terms of dynamics. Firstly, it has more power, and secondly, it is more high-torque, moreover, the maximum torque is available already from 1400 rpm and stretches up to 4000 rpm. A very good "shelf".
For 3 engine options we give 3 points.
Old Rio
For the 3rd generation Kia Rio, 2 engines were available:
- 1.4 at 107 hp and 135 Nm at 5000 rpm,
- 1.6 at 123 hp and 155 Nm at 4200 rpm.
The engines were paired with a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
According to the passport data, acceleration to 100 km / h in a car with a 1.4 liter engine. on "mechanics" it takes 11.5 seconds, on "automatic" - 13.5 seconds. For a sedan with a 1.6 engine, this is 10.3 and 11.2 seconds, respectively.
Fuel consumption according to the passport (values for automatic transmission in brackets):
- 1.4 - 7.5 (8.5) l. in the city and 5 (5.2) l. outside the city,
- 1.6 - 8 (8.6) l. in the urban cycle and 5 (5.3) liters. on the highway.
The 1.4 engine is definitely weak for a car weighing well over a ton (especially if it is fully loaded). But 1.6 is more powerful than Volkswagen, the torque is the same. The difference in power, of course, is not great, but for those who like to drive at higher revs, the difference will play a positive role.
For 2 engines in the range we give 2 points.
New Rio
For the new Rio, a brand new 1.4 was prepared, but 1.6 was left with the old one. Apparently, they did not see the point of inventing something new. Probably, according to its technical characteristics, it is quite normal for its time. The most interesting thing is that the torque has slightly changed: now it is not 155, but 151 Nm at 6300 rpm. As you can see, its thrust was reconfigured towards high revs.
The new 1.4-liter engine produces 100 hp. (it used to be 107). The torque has also dropped. Now it is 132 Nm at 4000 rpm. What guided in Kia - I still do not understand.
The new 1.4 engine accelerates the Kia Rio to 100 km / h in 12.2 seconds. on manual transmission and in 12.9 seconds. on the automatic transmission. Old revised 1.6, respectively - in 10.3 and 11.2 seconds.
Fuel consumption according to the passport is as follows (values for automatic transmission in brackets):
- 1.4 - 7.2 (8.5) l. in the city and 4.8 (5.1) l. on the highway,
- 1.6 - 8 (8.9) l. in the urban cycle and 4.8 (5.3) outside the city.
If we compare the passport data on fuel consumption of new and old power units, it turns out that Korean engineers have worked to reduce the appetite of engines. Could this be the reason for some of the torque changes?
For 2 engines I give 2 points.
Driving performance
I think no one will be able to answer the question of which car is better in driving performance. The thing is that most budget cars in this respect are practically similar to each other. Of course, everyone has their own nuances, but by and large, everything is the same. The irregularities are equally "swallowed", they steer and hold the road almost equally. Therefore, you can only understand what you like best by taking a test drive.
The only moment can be announced. In Kia Rio, the steering wheel in the lower position becomes tight, plus at high speed, according to some, it becomes "empty" - the feedback disappears. In the Volkswagen Polo, no such problem was found.
Since the perception of driving performance is a purely personal matter, I will not compare cars and evaluate them on this point.
Summarizing
First, let's summarize the scores:
I'm not a fan of Volkswagen, Polo in particular. But somehow it so happened that even I gave him the final mark much higher than the Kia Rio. To be honest, up to this point, the Korean state employee appealed to me more. So this is an unexpected result for me. Therefore, I think that if I was faced with the question of what is better to buy: a Volkswagen Polo or a Kia Rio, then most likely I would take a German sedan, even though its interior makes me feel a little melancholy. Melancholy, in essence, is an emotion, and it is better to be guided in the choice by rational arguments.
When asked which is more reliable, I think one can answer that at present car manufacturers are doing their best to ensure that their cars are at a high level in terms of reliability. All the more ambitious Korean brands like Kia - they sleep and see that the consumer perceives their cars on an equal footing with Japanese and European brands. It follows from this that the compared budget cars practically do not differ in terms of reliability.
Another thing is what is cheaper to maintain? This question can be answered by looking for spare parts in online stores. A cursory glance at several sites reveals that the body hardware, optics, etc. prices are higher for the Kia Rio, and for mechanics of different prices, higher for the Volkswagen Polo. Therefore, again, everyone should make their own choice.
Even in the last decade, German and Japanese cars were out of competition. However, today, in the autosphere with a price tag below 1 million rubles, Germany has serious rivals in the struggle for a buyer. The Korean car industry offers the current Russian consumer options for inexpensive foreign cars that are not inferior to the “Europeans” in functional and technical terms.
Looking at manufacturers from different parts of the world, keeping up with the times, consumers began to put on a par with the comparison of "Germans" and "Koreans".
Now there is a dilemma - Kia Rio or Volkswagen Polo. Both are budget foreign cars with good dynamic characteristics, and both have advantages and disadvantages.
To understand which one to choose, it is worth considering each in more detail. Moreover, to evaluate not only the appearance, but to look under the hood and inspect the interior from the inside.
Features of Kia Rio
The Kia Rio sedan dates back to 2000. Engineers have tried to create a car that lives up to the name Rio - a celebration, joy and fun. However, the exterior of the car is a screen that hides quality and reliability. In addition, by 2016, Kia has become almost a twin sister of Hyundai Solaris, which is loved in Russia for its low cost, ease of maintenance and reliability of performance.
The modern "Korean" has everything a city car needs. Nice interior design, discreet colors, user-friendly interface and many auxiliary functions, which until recently were present only on expensive "Germans" and "Japanese":
- keyless access to the car;
- engine start button Stop / Start;
- heated steering wheel and washer nozzles;
- Hands Free system;
- climate control.
The listed options are typical of premium cars; they come in top-end trim levels on the Kia Rio.
During the development of the car, Korean engineers made a bias towards the Russian market. They adapted the suspension and engine operation to the climatic conditions of the Eurasian region. The ground clearance is 160 mm, and in the cold season, warm air is supplied to the passenger compartment almost in the second minute after starting the engine.
The Korean car was created as an alternative to domestic cars, but with increased comfort.
Features of Volkswagen Polo
The VW Polo sedan is also designed specifically for the Russian consumer. Like the Kia, the ground clearance is large - 170 mm. For the first time, the Polo sedans were shown by the Germans back in 1995. In 2001, the body was modernized and mass production was launched, but the car was not popular. But after 9 years, the Volkswagen Polo Sedan completely changed the idea of the brand on the world market. The engineers relied on the reliability and practicality of a simple city car for the average middle class. And hit the mark.
The car is comfortable, but it does not have all the functions of a comfortable and fatigue-free trip.
So, in the car there is no ABS, electric mirrors, heated seats. But you can add climate control and a head unit to the package. In general, the car is fully consistent with German quality and reliability.
Car comparison
To appreciate the cars, the following parameters should be considered:
- appearance;
- interior design;
- ergonomics;
- equipment;
- engine;
- Transmission;
- dynamic characteristics.
Appearance
Korean car designers focused on stylish features and strived to be fashionable. The exterior is complemented by a nice package of options. Thus, the machine becomes very attractive on the market in terms of price and quality.
Volkswagen decided not to make the body futuristic and stylish, but to remain in the tradition of practicality.
The main focus of the car of this brand is on reliability and durability. It is extremely difficult to compare them, let alone choose one option.
The mouth of the tiger Kia Rio or the Volkswagen Polo with its unshakable calmness? "Korean" stands out in the stream with elegant lines, and "German" is distinguished by good quality and restraint. Everything is in place, nothing more. Polo is pleasant to look at, but so calm that in comparison with Rio it seems lower class.
Salon design
From both cars, the buyer will receive the same interior space. The Germans did not attach much importance to the design and performed in a minimalist style with its hard plastic, monotonous and meager backlighting, lack of functionality, and the Kia Rio stands out for its futurism.
The torpedo is adorned with glossy black plastic, and the dashboard, buttons and switches are modernly styled.
Additional equipment in the cabin
The steering wheel of the Kia Rio resembles a Formula 1 car. It has many switches, for example, a radio and a telephone. Optionally, the steering wheel is trimmed with leather, and its heating has been added to the base of the Kia Rio since 2012.
"German" cannot boast of such options, but its practicality and ease of control are higher than Rio. By ordering a Polo in the top-end configuration, it is possible to make the steering wheel leather, install an armrest and put a radio control unit on the steering wheel. In the usual configuration, the salon is completely devoid of additional functions that increase the comfort of use.
The torpedo and the panel on the Kia Rio are informative, beautiful, equipped with a liquid crystal display with a pleasant backlight. In a no-frills Polo, but with a little twist, the dashboard doesn't look quite as simple compared to Rio.
Engine and transmission
Polo comes off the assembly line in one type of power unit - 1.6 liters in 105 liters. with. Supplied with mechanics and automatic. 10.5 seconds are required on the mechanics to accelerate to 100 km / h. Due to the thoughts of the machine, the time is increased by one second.
Kia Rio has the same engine displacement as the Polo, but more powerful - 123 hp. with. Automatic and mechanics are also available. The 4-speed automatic transmission limits the power. It takes him 11.3 seconds to accelerate the car to 100 km / h. But the consumer has a choice: you can choose a car with a 1.4 engine on a manual transmission.
Dynamic characteristics
Kia Rio takes off quickly. However, if you press on the floor, then the machine drops to a lower gear with a delay. The car rides well at speed, rolls smoothly and perfectly levels road irregularities. Of course, there is no point in expecting something hurricane from her, not the class. But the goals are initially different. The brakes work well, and when cornering, the car maintains horizontal alignment like exchange rate stabilization in expensive "Germans".
Polo is also playful. When overtaking, it can give a good jerk. The manual transmission runs unusually smoothly, and the automatic gearbox shifts without delay, which is not known for Hyundai and Kia.
In terms of dynamic characteristics, two representatives of the four-wheeled world are on a par. Both motors take time to spin up and accelerate.
Where to stop
To draw a parallel and unequivocally choose between the Kia Rio and the Volkswagen Polo sedan, only a person who has already made a choice based on his preferences will be able to. Someone loves comfort at a low price, others rely on practicality and reliability and understand that they are paying for it, and not for functional bells and whistles.
Kia Rio collects positive reviews from people who are accustomed to driving, as if playing a console while sitting on the couch. Such sensations are provided by excellent ergonomics and a pleasant-looking finish.
Although the Volkswagen Polo is not distinguished by its beauty, it is really of high quality, and this can be seen from the outside. Manufacturers have selected worthy materials for the release of a standing model.
For the price, the Kia Rio will cost less, despite the increased comfort. However, the average cost of both cars is about the same - 500 thousand rubles. Even the most demanding customer will be able to choose a suitable option.
Evgeniy, driving experience - 12 years. Volkswagen Polo - since 2013
The second Polo sedan in the last three years. I always took new ones, from the salon and exclusively on the mechanics. I'm not going to change to Koreans, in Volkswagen I am satisfied with the absence of empty bells and whistles, because of which the price is winding up. From the time of the war, the Germans have everything clearly in the automotive industry, and it has remained so to this day. Maneuverability, dynamics, and most importantly, the durability of running parts.
Alexey Seleverstov, work experience - 7 years, I drive a Volkswagen Polo for 1 year
I bought myself this car, because I decided long ago that there is nothing better than German cars. If you change the oil more often, then the car runs for a surprisingly long time. Just change the pads, and nothing else breaks. True, I would like the machine to be quicker, otherwise sometimes you start to overtake, and he starts to blunt, and you find yourself in an awkward situation when you seem to have gone overtaking, but in the end you just caught up with the car and go in parallel. And so the car is excellent and roomy, although it does not shine with comfort.
Irina Nikolaevna, experience - 2 years, on Kia Rio since 2015
Kia Rio is my first car. My husband and I bought it so that I could learn to drive properly. They said that it was necessary to train in the domestic, because everything is very tough and difficult there. And Kia Rio - comfort for little money. I don't know about Russian cars, but the softness and lightness of my Kia completely suits me. You don't have to strain when turning the steering wheel at all. I put the box on D - and you roll as much as you like. In traffic jams, an automatic machine is generally indispensable for girls (I tried it on mechanics and I don't want it anymore). The car is miniature and in a crowded parking lot it is easy for me to handle it. I will always find a place. In winter, the car is warm, but in summer the air conditioner is either too weak or too cold. Here the Asians did not think a little and gave up slack.
Alexander Voronkov, work experience - 17 years, with Kia Rio since 2010
On this machine for many years. During his years he drove both domestic and foreign cars. But it’s good when we managed to combine something inexpensive, but practical, like our cars. The new Kia are becoming more interesting, and the old ones continue to work. I have Rio for a long time, and I do not know the troubles on it. Of the large ones, only the front and rear shock absorbers have changed. The rest is still walking. I change consumables and oil regularly and on time. The machine is just for centuries.
Conclusion
Both considered car models are quite worthy of attention and an assessment of their advantages. Each driver has their own preferences, so the choice is yours.
Some time ago, companies from Germany, one might say, had no rivals, but at the moment the situation has changed after cars from South Korea appeared on the car market. About 5 years ago, no one would have thought of comparing the car market from Europe with the market from Korea, but now the situation has changed. And therefore, many motorists ask which car should be purchased: Volkswagen Polo or Kia Rio?
The current automotive industry is constantly improving, and cars are offered to customers in a variety of price categories. Those who want can buy a Korean or German car for a reasonable price.
The appearance of these machines is completely different. Polo is a classic car from Europe, discreet features without any overkill. Last year, the car was updated: the radiator grille was changed, the bonnet and optics were improved. Now there are bi-xenon lights, LED strips have been added to the fog lights, and there is a washer on the lights.
Kia Rio, of course, looks much brighter - the original radiator grille in the "family" tiger grin, individual bumpers and newfangled lighting technology. The main body lines remained unchanged after the update. But, the appearance of the car is a purely personal choice.
Interior of Volkswagen Polo and Kia Rio
Inside the cabin of the described cars there is enough space for both the driver and passengers, in the German everything is minimal: plastic trim and interior trim made of 2-colored fabric. After last year's update, a chic steering wheel appeared in the Volkswagen Polo, new upholstery materials for the seats, in the center console there are matte chrome parts, in one modification a beautiful beige interior trim is used.
The interior of the Korean looks better - the salon is decorated for young people, everything is newfangled and beautiful: the original dashboard with glossy parts, a chic dashboard, in the center of which there is an LCD monitor. For a German, everything is more practical and boring, without excess, but comfortable and simple.
The equipment for both applicants is as follows: ABS structure, stability structure along the EBS course, frontal and lateral PBs, and, of course, an assistant at the start of the climb.
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Start of sales in Russia
The sales of the described cars in our country began at the very beginning of this 2016 year.
Complete set
Volkswagen Polo:
- Conceptline - 1.6 liter engine. 90 l. forces, gasoline, manual transmission, front-wheel drive sedan, acceleration 11.3 s, top speed - 178 km / h, consumption: 7.8 / 4.6 / 5.8
- Trendline - 1.6 liter engine. 90 l. forces, gasoline, manual transmission, front-wheel drive sedan, acceleration 11.3 s, top speed - 178 km / h, consumption: 7.8 / 4.6 / 5.8
- Engine 1.6 l. 110 l. forces, gasoline, manual transmission, front-wheel drive sedan, acceleration 10.5 s, top speed - 191 km / h, consumption: 7.9 / 4.7 / 5.9
- Engine 1.6 l. 110 l. forces, gasoline, automatic transmission, front-wheel drive sedan, acceleration 11.8 s, top speed - 184 km / h, consumption: 8.0 / 4.8 / 6.0
- Aiistar, Comfortline, Hihgline - the motors are the same as in the Trendline modification
- GT - Motor 1.4 l. 125 l. forces, gasoline, manual transmission, front-wheel drive sedan, acceleration 9 s, top speed - 198 km / h, consumption: 7.6 / 4.8 / 5.8
- Motor 1.4 l. 125 l. forces, gasoline, automatic transmission, front-wheel drive sedan, acceleration 9 s, top speed - 198 km / h, consumption: 7.4 / 4.9 / 5.8
Kia Rio sedan:
- Comfort - 1.4 liter engine 107 l. forces, fuel gasoline, manual transmission, front-wheel drive car, acceleration time - 11.6 s. Maximum speed - 190 km / h, consumption: 8.3 / 5.0 / 6.2
- Comfort air conditioner - 1.4 liter engine. 107 l. forces, fuel gasoline, manual transmission, front-wheel drive car, acceleration time - 11.6 s. Maximum speed - 190 km / h, consumption: 8.3 / 5.0 / 6.2
- Comfort audio - 1.4 liter engine 107 l. forces, fuel gasoline, manual transmission, automatic transmission, front-wheel drive car, acceleration time - 11.6 s, 13.6 s. Maximum speed - 170 and 190 km / h, consumption: 8.3 / 5.0 / 6.2
- Engine 1.6 l. 123 l. forces, fuel gasoline, manual transmission, automatic transmission, front-wheel drive car, acceleration time - 10.4 s, 11.3 s. Maximum speed - 185 and 190 km / h, consumption: 9.2 / 5.3 / 6.7
- Lux - Engine 1.6 l. 123 l. forces, fuel gasoline, manual transmission, automatic transmission, front-wheel drive car, acceleration time - 10.4 s, 11.3 s. Maximum speed - 185 and 190 km / h, consumption: 9.2 / 5.3 / 6.7
- Red Line, Prestige, Premium and Premium 500 characteristics are the same as in the Lux package.
Dimensions (edit)
- Polo length - 4 m 38.4 san. Rio - 4 m 37 dignity.
- Polo width - 1 m 69.9 san. Rio - 1 m 70 san.
- Polo height - 1 m 46.5 san. Rio - 1 m 47 dignity.
- Polo wheelbase - 2 m 55.2 san. Rio - 2 m 57 san.
- Clearance - 17 dignity. Rio - 16 san.
Price of all configurations
The price of the Volkswagen Polo starts at 580 thousand rubles, and ends at 890 thousand rubles.
The smaller Kia Rio equipment costs 630 thousand rubles, the flank one is 922 thousand rubles.
Volkswagen Polo and Kia Rio engine
The Volkswagen Polo lineup is represented by 2 petrol engines - 1.4 liters. 125 l. forces and 1.6 liters. 90 l. forces. The gearbox is also presented from 2 variants - these are "mechanics" and "automatic". Acceleration time, depending on the transmission, takes from 9 to 11.8 seconds. Top speed from 178 to 198 km / h. All cars are front wheel drive.
The Kia Rio lineup is represented by 2 16-valve engines. The row starts with 1.4 liters. naturally aspirated engine, 107 hp forces. Acceleration with this engine is 11.6 s. The maximum speed is 170 and 190 km / h, depending on the transmission.
Engine 1.6 l. and a capacity of 123 liters. strength. This engine has a simple atmospheric device. Acceleration to one hundred 10.4-11.6 seconds.
The trunk of the Volkswagen Polo and Kia Rio
The luggage compartment of the Volksvagen Polo is able to accommodate 430 liters of cargo. The luggage compartment of the Kia Rio is designed for 500 liters.
Final conclusion
What conclusion can be drawn? The described vehicles are well equipped. The price category does not reach 1 million rubles, which is quite decent. Driving characteristics, technical qualities are good. The equipment, even in the standard version, is quite good. Well, it's up to you to choose the car you like. It would be only your desire and opportunity, and the cars are very good.
You will not surprise anyone with the next topic regarding which car is better. It would seem that everything has already been discussed and considered so many times, but such discussions do not subside. The same applies to the comparison of the Kia Rio with the Volkswagen Polo sedan. Of course, there can be no consensus that any of the sedans is better, but it is still worth considering a similar dilemma and comparing these models.
Prestige
Here, of course, the Volkswagen Polo is ahead of its rival. It's no secret that German models are rated higher than Korean ones, which is facilitated by their legendary quality. On the other hand, it cannot be said that the KIA Rio has such poor pedigree or chronic problems in the design. In addition, when buying a sedan in this price range, comparison in terms of prestige is not decisive, although it does have a certain weight. 
Exterior
Kia rio
It all depends solely on taste, so the concept of "better" in this case is inappropriate. The Rio sedan is designed with flowing lines, it is sharpened, fast and modern. The front end is decorated with an impressive radiator grille, on the sides of which there are headlights of head optics that climb far into the front fenders. The KIA bumper is distinguished by the "mouth" of the air intake and L-shaped fog lights.
The forward-tilted profile of the Rio sedan seems to continue the image of impetuosity, indicated in the front end. The roof piled back, stamping on the doors and fenders, decorative elements, crawling feet and spectacular rims are striking. The rear of the Rio is not so defiant, everything is done in a calm style - the correct lines of the trunk lid, a slightly protruding bumper, etc. In general, the design of the Kia Rio reflects the modern trends taken up by the Korean company.
Volkswagen polo
Not so with the Polo. The pedantic German school is here. Volkswagen attracts attention with its clear and precise proportions. He has a classic front end with a small grille and regular optics. A good half of the bumper of this sedan is occupied by an impressive air intake, on the sides of which there are round fog lights. And over it all hangs the sloping hood of the Polo. 
In profile, the Polo sedan looks more solid - it does not have that daring forward tilt and pretentious stamping. All lines of the Volkswagen are straight, the gaps between the parts are thread, the roof is also slightly heaped back, but to a lesser extent than on the KIA. The Polo wheels are uncomplicated, with 7 spokes. The food is made in the same spirit - calm and stylish. The appearance of the Volkswagen Polo is much less defiant. It is for her that this sedan is preferred by mature people, while young people choose eccentric and sporty Rio.
Engines
Basic
In this respect, Volkswagen is frankly losing. Common to these sedans is the presence of simple and uncomplicated power units. They all have an atmospheric design, an injection injection system, 4 cylinders and 16 valves each. Each model offers 2 motors.
The Rio is the first to have a 1.4-liter engine with a capacity of 107 hp. with. This is a good indicator for such a segment, even despite the fact that the Kia's peak power can be reached exclusively at the very top - already at 6,300 rpm. The Rio sedan's torque is also good - 135 Newtons at 5,000 rpm.
This engine is designed for AI-92 and Euro-4 standards. The dynamic characteristics of such a KIA are not impressive - 11.5 seconds to accelerate to a hundred, and the maximum speed that the Rio sedan is capable of is 190 km / h. In this case, the consumption fits into 7.6 liters in the city.
To oppose such an engine, the Volkswagen Polo can only be a much weaker, 85-horsepower engine. And this is despite the advantage in working volume - 1.6 liters versus 1.4 for Kia. As an asset, he can put the peak located below the maximum return - 5,200 revolutions. But the torque of the Polo is higher and is available earlier - 145 Nm at 3,750 rpm. In dynamics, the German's 85-horsepower engine loses a little to the Rio - 11.9 seconds, as well as in the maximum speed, which is 179 km / h. Volkswagen's consumption is 1 liter more, which is a consequence of the larger volume - 8.7 liters in city mode.
Top
Here the advantage is also on the side of the KIA Rio. Such a sedan is able to offer the buyer a 1.6-liter engine with a return of 123 hp. sec., albeit at 6,300 rpm. At the same time, the thrust remains at the level of 155 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm. Such a KIA power unit is much more dynamic than its predecessor, because it accelerates the sedan to hundreds in just 10.3 seconds. however, its maximum speed did not increase, remaining at around 190 km / h.
Rio consumption increased by 1 liter, reaching 8.5 liters. The second Polo engine is also inferior to its counterpart, like the first. This time the power of the 1.6-liter German engine reached 105 hp. with., approaching the recoil of the base from Kia. As before, its peak power was reached at 5,250 rpm, which is slightly less than that of the Korean. But in terms of thrust, the motors of competitors are practically equal - 153 Nm at 3,800 rpm.
The dynamics of Volkswagen is almost as good as that of the Korean sedan - 10.5 seconds. up to a hundred with the same (8.7 liters) appetite.
Consequently, if in relation to basic powertrains, the Kia's advantage over Polo is immediately visible and in almost all respects (except for torque), then in the case of top-end engines it is rather illusory.
Since the significantly lower power of the Volkswagen engine does not give Rio a gain either in dynamics or in traction. so in this aspect, KIA can be recognized better, but without an overwhelming advantage.
Checkpoint
Basic
In this aspect, Rio is again in the lead, albeit a small gap. The choice of gearboxes for the models is almost identical. Kia with a 1.4-liter engine is equipped with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-band automatic transmission. The boxes themselves are not bad - the "mechanics" works without failures, the lever switches simply and naturally, and its moves are quite short.
But the "automatic" of the Korean sedan leaves not so rosy impressions - jerks and jerks are observed when switching, and its "thoughtfulness" sometimes annoys drivers, especially when the kick-down mode is activated on the track. However, for those who are accustomed to a measured and calm ride, this is not a big problem.
Volkswagen, on the other hand, did not equip the Polo with an automatic transmission with the base engine, offering customers exclusively a 5-speed MT. German "mechanics" Polo is in no way inferior to that of KIA - smooth shifting, short stroke and other advantages. As for the automatic transmission, the engineers, most likely, considered it inappropriate for the 85-horsepower Polo to have an “automatic”.
Top
Volkswagen has added a new transmission - to the same 5-speed MT Polo, engineers have added a 6-band "automatic". Of course, temperamental Polo drivers will be annoyed by her calm disposition, especially with only 105 horses under the hood, but the Volkswagen Polo is a non-racing model.
Kia Rio in this case again pleases with variety. Suffice it to say that for the 123-horsepower Rio engine, the Koreans have picked up both a new "mechanics" and a new "automatic". Both are 6-speed and are focused primarily on efficiency. The automatic transmission managed to get rid of many problems and shortcomings, and MT does not cause problems for Rio. However, some are not convinced that this is better, because the 123-horsepower Rio engine and the 105-horsepower Polo engine simply do not need 6 gears.
And this is nothing more than a simple PR move from Kia and Volkswagen. As a result, all gears come out too short to be able to spin the engine with confidence. The only drawback of both automatic transmissions and the Volkswagen Polo and Kia Rio is their tuning for efficiency, which is why they constantly strive to "tuck" the gear higher, as a result, keeping the engine on the lower edge of the revs, from which it is far from always ready to quickly spin up. It is also worth noting that both automakers preferred the installation of a simple torque converter, abandoning the now fashionable variators and preselective transmissions.
Chassis
The layout of the undercarriage in the Rio and Polo is identical. This is an independent front suspension equipped with McPherson struts. At the back, both companies installed a torsion beam, without equipping even the top-end modifications of their sedans with a fully independent chassis. But there are also differences. They concern primarily the brakes. If on the Kia Rio there are disc mechanisms in a circle, then on the Polo they are installed only on the front axle, and even the top-end modification is not equipped with rear disc brakes. And Rio has this kit from the basic version.
Of course, there are enough such brakes for the Polo, but in this respect KIA is still better. Also, the models differ in terms of steering. If on Rio, the designers preferred a hydraulic amplifier, as a more familiar and traditional one, then the Germans at Polo settled on an electric version. Whatever it was, but if you compare, then both mechanisms show themselves perfectly - the control is sensitive and verified.
Interior
In this case, as with appearance, the directions of thought of the designers of Volkswagen and Kia are diametrically opposite.
Kia rio
Rio has a youthful interior, immediately charging with enthusiasm and setting up for active driving. That there is only one dashboard, with its huge speedometer, which took up more than half of the space in it, analog indicators and spectacular wells, in which the instruments are enclosed. The Rio's 3-spoke steering wheel is very comfortable, making it easy to drive. The extended air vents quickly create a cozy atmosphere in the car. The ergonomics are well thought out - all the Rio control keys are located in their places, you do not need to reach for them across the entire interior.
The center console, divided into 2 blocks (multimedia and climate), looks great, and you can use the options without being distracted. The very same dashboard Rio is made without sharp kinks, with harmonious transitions and lines, although the material is not of the highest quality. Seats at KIA are comfortable - they provide lateral support, and do not let you get tired on a long journey. In addition, the mass of adjustments allows you to comfortably accommodate the driver of almost any height. Good visibility, which the Kia boasts, is also important - it is somewhat limited only by the wide front struts. In general, the Rio has an excellent interior - bright, memorable, but without flashy elements, comfortable and thoughtful.
Volkswagen polo
Everything is different here, and in no way worse, but simply different. It is not for nothing that there is an opinion about the interior of Volkswagen, verified so much that only a lamp and a secretary are missing. Inside the Polo everything is thought out with German pedantry - the ergonomics are simply impeccable, and so that you can click on the keys without opening your eyes. The Polo's dashboard is crisp and clear - the large dials of the speedometer and tachometer are separated by an on-board computer screen.
The steering wheel is very comfortable, and it is made of material that is pleasant to the touch. The Polo air vents are almost rectangular in shape, with slightly rounded outlines, not inferior to those of the Rio. The Polo center console, which houses the multimedia screen and keys, and under them the air conditioning unit, is striking in its order - each button is in its place.
The Polo dashboard is made of monochromatic plastic, which is surprisingly harmoniously diluted with chrome inserts. The seats at Volkswagen are tight in German, but from the point of view of convenience, they are not in doubt. If we compare the visibility, then it is slightly better than the Rio, since the A-pillars are not as wide here.
