What to buy Kia or Skoda. Compare Kia Rio and Skoda Octavia: which is better? Video comparison Rapid with Rio

In a year, Rio sold three and a half times as many copies as Rapid. At the same time, since the middle of summer, the "Korean" is sold in a new generation, and the "Czech" is only slightly updated. Is there such a gap in sales related to this? Moreover, it is interesting that people vote for Kia with their minds (rubles), but with their hearts, according to our survey, they vote for Rapid. Of course, in this particular comparison, the Czech liftback “sells” his special Monte Carlo performance - such a machine looks bright, almost flashy even.

This Skoda is for those who want to look immodest, but flawless, because all the styling is factory. Moreover, the Monte Carlo package can be ordered even for a 90-horsepower car with mechanics, but you will still have a daring black roof, 16-inch wheels (how can you turn them with such a motor?), Sports seats and a steering wheel, as well as others. sure signs of a fast car.

Top grade for 1 bitcoin

The version of the "Rapida" with a 125-horsepower 1.4 TSI engine and a DSG-7 robot corresponds much more to the Monte Carlo design. In a pair to such a car, we took a Kia Rio with a 123-horsepower 1.6 naturally aspirated and a 6-speed automatic. In the top version, both models are getting close to 1 bitcoin million rubles, and Rapid also steps over this mark due to numerous options. However, let's abstract from specific cars and compare prices in general.

Kia rio

Skoda Rapid

The Rio costs from 684,900 to 994,900, and the Rapid ranges from 628,000 to 1,014,000, plus options for another 200,000. A Rio with a gun is at least 784,900 rubles, and a two-pedal Rapid is 787,000. A Rio with a powerful motor is 769,900, and a Rapid of similar power is already 928,000. The fact is that a 123-horsepower Rio can be taken with a mechanics The 125-horsepower Rapid is available exclusively with a robot. If we equate engines and gearboxes, then the Korean car will still remain more affordable: 809 900. This is all because in Kia you can choose expensive units, but an affordable package, and Skoda forces you to take at least the third of the four equipment levels with a powerful engine.

By the way, some of the Rapid options, not included in any configuration and pulling a total of 200 thousand, are sheer self-indulgence. For example, a driver fatigue sensor or passenger seat height adjustment. And the other part is that for which the top-end Kia does not need to pay extra. This is glass heating, climate control, navigation or keyless entry. But in terms of extreme sophistication, Skoda beats its Korean rival: among other things, Rapid offers automatic high-beam control, a rear armrest and several more similar daws of the configurator. The only thing missing is the heating of the steering wheel, which is banal for the Rio.

Kia rio

Skoda Rapid

Liftback as a synonym for practicality

The indisputable, but not absolute advantage of the Czech liftback is its spaciousness. The Rapid has much more legroom in the back - at least sit cross-legged. But the ceiling presses on the top of the passenger's head even a little harder than in the Rio! In both cars, already with an average height, you have to curl up a little or slide to the front edge of the sofa cushion in order not to prop up the roof with your head. But the width of the cabin and the space in front of the Skoda and Kia are the same.

But Rapid unconditionally removes the competitor when it comes to the trunk. A liftback is a priori more convenient than a sedan in matters of cargo transportation, but on the Skoda side there are also additional advantages - a larger volume and availability of nets, dividers, pockets, hooks and other proprietary cargo fastening systems. But we must admit that the trunk of Kia is also successful by the standards of sedans, and the canister or small bag can be conveniently fastened with Velcro straps in the side niches.

Kia rio

Skoda Rapid

When the second youth is not worse than the first

The Rio's interior, although younger than the Rapid, is not to say that it is more modern. And in some moments it loses significantly. For example, the on-board computer of a Korean car is still primitive against the background of a Czech one - Rapid gives the driver much more travel information, and quite a way. The design and materials are good in each of the cars in its own way: in the Rio it is pleasant to feel the metal in the steering wheel (even in the Lexus - silver painted plastic), and the plastic has a solid texture everywhere. As for the Rapid, it gives the impression of a high-quality thing inside, even without the Monte Carlo "buns".

The Rio multimedia system has an unpleasant surprise: it has forgotten how to play music from a USB flash drive in folders! Not otherwise, as in Kia they took a developer from Toyota, where the same oddity is present in the interfaces. By the way, the top-end acoustics of Kia are inferior to those in the Skoda in one gate - only Rapid produces an excellent sound, but you will have to pay extra for it. But the climate system sounds powerful both there and there: at a fan speed above average, the whistle of air from the deflectors will easily prevail over the sounds of softly playing music!

Kia rio

Skoda Rapid

A few more details. The center armrest in the Rio moves back and forth, but does not adjust in height, as in the Rapid - in the latter it is decided to be more comfortable. By the way, in "Rapid" you can also order an armrest for second-row passengers. And Skoda also has a convenient accessory for attaching a smartphone in a cup holder, while in Rio the mobile phone will rattle against the non-rubberized plastic of any of the available niches. The only question for Skoda: where is the mirror in the driver's visor?

Units: classics are always in price

The Rapid has the same power as the Rio, but it's easier to extract it from the turbo engine than from the aspirated one. While the latter unwinds with an annoying roar, its supercharged colleague is already merrily carrying the Skoda forward under an energetic roar. The declared difference in dynamics is more than two seconds! Fidelity to the naturally aspirated circuit makes Kia not only slower, but also a little more voracious: we had 10 liters per hundred versus 9 that Skoda consumed. The high efficiency of the Skoda engine also has a downside: it warms up longer. Fortunately, in both cars, heating is available not only for the front seats, but also for the sofa.

And this begs the question: did we take the Rapid as our rivals for Rio? A cheaper version of Skoda with an aspirated 110 horsepower and a 6-speed automatic transmission is devoid of jerks and is up to a hundred slower than the 123-horsepower Rio, by just 0.4 seconds. Here are the real rivals! But the difference with a much more vigorous combination of TSI-DSG is only 40 thousand rubles. Therefore, we will consider the comparison of the top-end versions taken in the test fair, and the choice between the atmosphere and the turbo "Rapid" is only a matter of taste preferences, but not significant savings.

There are claims to the suspensions in both cars. Rapid is so tough that it can no longer be called elasticity. Sharp irregularities pass soundlessly, and the shaking makes the inoffensive lid of the well to be rounded once again. Rio is softer and smoother, but the power reserve is small - it would be correct to call such a setting flabby. Excessive sounds and shaking appear both on small things and on a larger wave - there is not enough integrity, composure. But the undercarriage of the Czech car is more annoying: the Rapid is frankly shaking and booming, while the Rio is simply not energy-intensive and dense enough.

As a result, we have Rapid, which is more convenient on the farm, more dynamic, more economical and more configurable. But it is clearly inferior in two things: the work of the suspension and the cost of a well-equipped option. Rio, on the other hand, is more comfortable in terms of chassis and automatic, and cheaper in most cases. It is surprising that against the background of only retouched Rapid completely newRio is not perceived as a more modern car - quite a parity. But at the level of sensationsKia seems to be more relaxed and comfortable, whereas Rapid is more energetic. There is no clear winner here - everything will determine the priorities of a particular buyer.

Class B sedans are the most popular models in the local market. In connection with the crisis of 2014, there was a sharp one.Therefore, the former leaders of the C class, such as the Ford Focus, which previously cost an average of 500 thousand rubles, have now risen in price to at least 800 thousand. In these conditions, the popularity of more compact sedans has increased, although their cost increased, reaching the previous level of prices of models of class C. And yet now such cars are sold in the largest quantities. One of the leaders of the local market is Kia Rio. Many other models are also very popular. Skoda Rapid is among them. Next, we consider "Kia Rio" or "Skoda Rapid": which is better and how to choose the right one.

Origin

The Kia Rio is a Korean small class model, produced since 2000. The first two generations of the car were identical for different markets, but the third, which appeared in 2011, was decided to be split. Therefore, the model sold in the local market differs significantly from the machines presented in Europe and North America. This is due to the fact that a modification for the Chinese market, called K2, was adopted as the basis for the Russian Rio. In fact, this is the same car with minor changes for local conditions. The model is based on the updated Hyundai Accent platform. In 2015, she underwent a restyling.

Skoda Rapid is a relatively new Czech model that appeared in 2012. Since Skoda is a division of the Volkswagen Audi Group, Rapid is based on one of the variants of the common platform of the A0 concern - PQ25. Therefore, many components and assemblies are borrowed from other models.

If you choose from this point of view "Kia Rio" or "Skoda Rapid" (which is better), it looks more preferable as it is not a simplified version for developing countries, but a single model for all markets, albeit a budget one.

Body

Kia Rio is presented in two bodies: a 5-door hatchback (from 2012) and a 4-door sedan (from 2011). Traditionally, the sedan is much more popular in the local market. Its length is 4.38, wheelbase is 2.57 m, width - 1.7, height - 1.47. The hatchback is 0.25 m shorter, the other dimensions are identical. The sedan has a trunk volume of 500 liters, and the hatchback has 389 liters.

Skoda Rapid has a liftback body. It resembles a sedan in shape, but the trunk lid is combined with the rear window. The length of the car is 4.48, the wheelbase is 2.6 m, the width is 1.7, the height is 1.47. Trunk volume - 550 l.

To determine on the basis of this, "Kia Rio" or "Skoda Rapid": which is better is difficult. As you can see, the sizes of these models are very close, especially if we consider the Rio sedan. Although the Rapid body is more practical, as it combines the qualities of a sedan and a hatchback.

By design "Kia Rio" or "Skoda Rapid": which is better, the photo will allow you to determine. In general, Kia has a more youthful style, and Skoda is decorated traditionally for the manufacturer's models.

Chassis

Since the Rio is based on the Accent platform, the suspension is the same as that of this model. That is, the front is represented by McPherson struts, the rear is a semi-independent structure. The car is tuned for good behavior on asphalt roads. The ground clearance is 16 cm, which is provided by a modification for local conditions. The Rio is equipped with 15-inch wheels. The brakes on the front wheels are ventilated discs, the rear ones are drum brakes for 1.4 l modification, and disc brakes for 1.6 liters.

The components of the Rapid undercarriage are borrowed from other models of the manufacturer. So, the front and the rear semi-independent beam are taken from the first generation Octavia from the Fabia. The ground clearance is 17 cm. Wheels with a diameter of 14 to 16 inches are available. The rear brakes of the simplest version are also drum brakes. For the rest of the options, all are disk.

According to the chassis, it is also difficult to determine whether "Kia Rio" or "Skoda Rapid" is better. As you can see, the design of the suspensions is identical. The differences are in the settings.

Engines

Rio for the local market is equipped with two power units.

The G4FA is the initial 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Its power is 107 liters. sec., torque - 135 Nm.

The G4FD has the same design, but with a larger volume of 0.2 liters. Thanks to this, the power is higher by 16 liters. sec., torque - 20 Nm.

Both engines are designed for AI-92 gasoline.

Three powertrains are available for the local version of the Rapid.

CJZC - a four-cylinder engine with distributed injection has a volume of 1.6 liters. Its capacity is 90 liters. sec., torque - 155 Nm.

CJZD - the engine of the same design and volume, but more powerful by 20 liters. with. The torque is the same.

CZEA is a four-cylinder engine with a smaller volume (1.4 liters), but equipped with a turbocharger and a direct injection system. This allows him to develop 125 hp. with. and 200 Nm.

The Rapid powertrains are designed for a minimum of 95 gasoline.

"Kia Rio" or "Skoda Rapid": which is better in terms of the range of engines - it is difficult to say unequivocally. Power units of the Korean model are simpler in design, therefore they are less demanding on fuel quality, which ensures lower costs. The range of Rapid engines is slightly wider, which allows buyers to more accurately select a car based on their needs. In addition, it helps to expand their audience, since the engines cover a wider range of characteristics.

So, CJZC is the most economical and approximately corresponds to the 1.4 L Rio engine. The CJZD sits between Kia's engines in performance, but closer to the 1.6L variant. The most powerful Rapid engine, the CZEA, outperforms the 1.6L Korean powertrain.

Transmissions

For the starter Rio, 4- and 5-speed automatic and manual transmissions are offered, respectively.

Versions with a 1.6 liter engine are equipped with more modern 6-speed automatic and manual transmissions.

The simplest version of the Rapid is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission.

For a more powerful 1.6 liter engine, they offer the same manual transmission, as well as a 6-speed automatic.

The most powerful motor is equipped exclusively with a 7-speed robotic DSG gearbox.

"Skoda Rapid" or "Kia Rio": which is better in terms of the range of transmissions is also controversial. In general, the Rio has a wider range of gearbox options. It is represented by four gearboxes: 5- and 6-speed automatic and manual. There are three transmissions available for the Rapid: 6-speed automatic, 5-speed manual and 7-speed robotic. At the same time, for two engines (the simplest and most powerful) there is no choice of a gearbox.

In the Rio, each engine is equipped with two gearboxes, although they are still fixed for different trim levels. The main advantage of the Rapid is the presence of a complex robotic DSG, but on the other hand, a more advanced 6-speed mechanics are available for the Rio than that of the Skoda.

Salon

Considering the interiors of cars like the Kia Rio or the Skoda Rapid, which is better? The review of cars by journalists gives the most information.

In their opinion, Skoda surpasses Kia in ergonomics, since, unlike it, it has adjustments for the seat height and steering wheel for reach. In addition, the Rapid has niches in the rear for various items.

For the comfort of "Kia Rio" or "Skoda Rapid": which is better? The review also supports Skoda. More Rapid adjustments provide front seat comfort. In the back row, with similar dimensions, there is more space in height and width. The backrest of the Skoda also has a tilted backrest for increased comfort.

In terms of the quality of the Kia Rio or Skoda Rapid salons: which is better? Feedback from the owners and the opinions of journalists indicate that the interior of a Korean car is of better quality. They celebrate the best plastics and self-cleaning fabric of the seats.

Performance

The simplest modifications of both cars are almost identical in dynamics. Rio with a manual gearbox accelerates to 100 km / h in 11.6 seconds and is capable of accelerating to 185 km / h. Skoda reaches the same top speed but accelerates 0.2 seconds faster. The second modification of Skoda with a 1.6 liter engine accelerates to 100 km / h in 10.3 s and reaches 195 km / h. In terms of acceleration, it is equal to the most powerful Rio, and even surpasses it in speed by 5 km / h.

It takes 9 seconds to accelerate the fastest turbocharged Skoda to 100 km / h, the maximum speed is 208 km / h.

The Rio's 4-speed gearbox is soft and sluggish, while the Skoda automatic is slower than the Korean 6-speed gearbox. DSG has mostly negative reviews, both in terms of smoothness and reliability. The Rapid manual gearbox does not have 6 gears, which affects the economy.

To the question: "Kia Rio" or "Skoda Rapid": which is better to choose in terms of dynamics? "- you can answer: Skoda with a 1.4 liter engine. The simplest versions are approximately equal, and Rapid with a medium engine actually lags behind 1.6 l Rio, although slightly faster on data.

By handling "Kia Rio" or "Skoda Rapid": which is better? Reviews testify in favor of Skoda. It possesses more informational content of controls, reaction accuracy and stability. The Rio is less accurate and more lurching.

Comfort

The Rapid's good handling is achieved through increased suspension stiffness. The Rio has softer settings, so it smoothes out bumps. However, in some conditions, the buildup is manifested. Also, due to the lack of energy intensity, breakdowns are possible on large irregularities.

In terms of acoustic comfort, the cars are approximately equal.

Profitability

In terms of fuel consumption, the cars are very close. The 1.4 liter Skoda engine stands out, which, according to the data, is slightly more economical. However, the Rapid can only be refueled with 95 gasoline, while the Rio is sufficient for the AI-92.

Price

For the price, the cars are also close. Rapid in the initial version is cheaper (574 thousand rubles, while Rio costs 611.9 thousand). The base cost of the more powerful versions differs much less (only by about 2000). A turbocharged Skoda can be bought at a price of 886 thousand. At the same time, the Rio configuration is richer, and you have to buy a lot of equipment on the Rapid.

Outcomes

Rapid surpasses Rio in handling, ergonomics, practicality, spaciousness in the back row and dynamics thanks to the presence of a 1.4 liter engine. The Rio is more comfortable, has a better finish and is more economical, thanks to the ability to use 92 gasoline.

At the same time, Rapid lags behind Rio by the number of cars sold by about 3 times. For 9 months of this year, more than 62 thousand Rio and more than 19 thousand Rapids were sold. Thus, Rio occupies the third place in the market, and Skoda - the fourteenth.

After the release of the new generation of Korean and the renewal of the Czech "state employees" again I want to compare which is better: Skoda Rapid or Kia Rio. Whether the price / quality ratio of these popular models has changed, what to choose and what to buy - read in this article.

Recall that Rapid has been produced since the end of 2012. It appeared in Russia in 2014. In 2017, the car underwent a very slight facelift, which resulted in the use of new optics with LED inserts. In addition to this, the automaker tries to add something new to the car every year.

Rio also received a new generation, already the fourth in a row. It turns out that the model is no longer young, and you expect that with each new generation the car should get better and better. This applies to both stylistic solutions and technical characteristics. Is this so, now we will try to figure it out.

Body

Appearance

The appearance of the Skoda Rapid has not changed: it still looks the same as we have known it for almost a whole five years.

In principle, I probably personally don't really want his appearance to change. At least drastically. In my opinion, the exterior design of the Czech car is quite relevant. But this is in my opinion, of course. I don’t insist. It is gratifying, by the way, that the corporate identity is also present on the younger model of the automaker. So it seems more solid.

The new Kia Rio has completely changed in appearance, but the swiftness of the lines remains. Now the car looks modern and, importantly, very European.

Design consistency is good. Hopefully, designers will have a sense of proportion in the future.

In appearance, I cannot determine the most preferable option for myself, because both look good. Therefore, the score remains unchanged for now: 0-0.

Dimensions (edit)

The Rapid is 4.483 m long, 1.706 m wide, and 1.461 m high. The ground clearance for our roads has been increased to 17 cm. The wheelbase is 2.602 m.

Rio's length is 4.4 m, width - 1.74 m, height - 1.47 m. The ground clearance is stated at 16 cm, which is slightly more than in the previous version. The base has grown by 3 cm and is 2.6 m long.

As you can see, the Czech "state employee" is longer than the Korean one by more than 8 cm. But the "Korean" is almost 4 cm wider than the "Czech". The height and wheelbase of cars are almost the same. But the clearance declared by the Czechs, although more - in fact, I think, is less. The reason is the rear shock absorber cups sticking out low. They spoil everything. In my opinion, protruding parts (especially between the body and the roadbed) are always bad. There is always a chance for them to catch on to something and tear it off. Koreans are preferable in this regard, they have a plus sign. The account is open: 0-1 in favor of the Kia Rio.

Rio X-Line body features

Unlike the sedan, the Rio X-Line boasts increased ground clearance. Here it is as much as 18 cm. For our conditions, I think, just right. In addition, the bottom of the hatchback body is protected by plastic overlays around the entire perimeter, which, of course, is a huge plus.

It has been noticed that the paintwork of the body of Korean cars is not reliable enough. Therefore, the presence of plastic protection in the Rio X-Line will definitely contribute to the extension of the service life of the side sills and wheel arches.

The engine is protected from below by a solid protective steel plate. Coupled with the high ground clearance, this gives a feeling of confidence on bad roads.

And something else

In addition, it is worth mentioning some little things in relation to the body structure.

Judging by the reviews, the Rapid's exterior mirrors are not sufficiently streamlined - with an increase in speed, aerodynamic noise begins to persistently make its way into the cabin. Moreover, the higher the speed, the stronger the noise. By the way, many people say that their visibility is not good enough. The Korean car is better in this regard. He gets the point. The score is 0-2.

Rio 2017 doorways are not properly sealed. This is especially true for the lower part of the openings. Rest assured that the rapids inside will always be dirty. The Czech liftback has no such problems. Everything is fine here. The first plus sign. The score is 1-2.

The Czech car, like its German twin Polo, has a high-quality paintwork and a galvanized body. Paintwork is much more resistant to the external environment and perfectly resists the appearance of chips and scratches. Kia cannot boast of this. Only the bottom of the body is galvanized. There were cases when chips appeared on the thresholds treated with an anti-gravel coating after a couple of thousand kilometers. And chips appear faster on the front of the hood. Here Skoda definitely wins. The score was equal: 2-2.

Rapid 2018 received better sound insulation. Now the noise emanating from the wheel arches almost does not interfere, and the engine is heard only from 4000 "rpm". For some reason, the creators of Rio decided that their brainchild did not require close work on soundproofing. The previous generation also did not differ in high-quality "noise", so it was quite logical to expect that the new version would be better than the old one in this regard. But "things are still there." A point in favor of the Czechs. The score is 3-2.

Interior

Design

The interior design of the Skoda Rapid is, in my opinion, the case when the laconic German style is ennobled by light strokes that allow it to "open up" as much as possible.

Honestly, I really like it. All details are in harmony with each other and, therefore, the impression of completeness is created.

The interior of the new Kia Rio is not so harmonious. Although, of course, here, too, for an amateur. But as for me, he is not as stylish as the opponent's.

Yes, it is interesting in its own way. But nothing more. I will not say that one should be equal to him. Therefore, I give the score for the interior design to the "Czech". The score is 4-2.

Quality of materials

The quality of the materials used in the Skoda Rapid trim is quite decent for the B-class. The assembly is very high-quality: all the parts are well-matched to each other. The plastic is hard, but not cheap.

The interior of the Kia Rio is also of a good standard, although there are rare exceptions, judging by the negative reviews. The plastic looks good, but, like the competitor, it is also solid. By the way, the rear of the cabin is made of cheaper materials, which is noticeable even with the naked eye.

I will not rate the quality of the materials, because cars in this regard are almost the same.

Ergonomics

But ergonomics is worth talking in more detail.

In both cars, the steering wheel is adjustable both in tilt angle and in reach. The devices are easy to read, the panel is not overloaded with information. All controls are in place. The score has not changed yet.

The front seats in both Rapid and Rio are quite comfortable for riders of almost any height and build. Yes, in the "Korean" there is no special attention to certain things, such as lumbar support, but, as those who traveled long distances testify, the seat can still be adjusted so as to sit in it as comfortably as possible.

By the way, for a Czech car, you can optionally order sports front seats. Moreover, it is relatively inexpensive. They differ from standard ones by more developed lateral support and non-adjustable head restraints.

There are no special complaints about the front seats, so no one gets a point yet. But if we compare the rear sofas, then the difference between the approaches of the ergonomists allows us to draw some conclusions.

Since 2017, Rapid has received an armrest with cup holders in the back of the back sofa.

It is strange that none of the automakers have yet realized that it was necessary. None of the classmates have an armrest. And for this Rapid gets a plus in the piggy bank. The score is 5-2.

Again, an armrest is needed if no more than two passengers are traveling in the back. And if you need to transport three? It is clear that the B-class is not designed for this. But in our country there is a different opinion on this matter, you must agree.

In general, if you put the third in the back between the first two, then his legs in the Czech car will be very much hampered by a huge tunnel of the exhaust system. This will not happen in Rio, because the tunnel is made very low, almost level with the floor.

I don't know how the engineers managed to do this, but it's really cool. Rio deserves a point. The score is 5-3.

If we talk about the spaciousness of the rear of the cabin, then the Skoda Rapid wins here again: there is more space in front of the knees of the rear passengers here. In addition, there is more free space above the heads. This is probably due to the greater angle of inclination of the back of the sofa. The landing turns out to be more imposing, relaxed. The score is 6-3.

Regarding the number of any cup holders, niches, glove compartments of the winner, I think, as if to determine. But it is worth knowing that the Kia Rio's glove compartment is small. Plus there are no pockets in the rear doors. And so, in principle, there are enough niches and cup holders both there and there.

Trunk

Trunks should be discussed separately, because they have different designs for the compared models.

Rapid is made in the body of a liftback. Rio is known to us as a sedan and a hatchback. So, the difference between a liftback and a sedan is that the rear window also rises along with the trunk lid. Thus, as in the hatchback, this is called the fifth door and not the trunk lid.

Compared to the sedan, the volume of the trunk is obtained due to the interior space under the rear window, and compared to the hatchback, the volume is greater due to the longer length of the main part of the trunk. It is the larger volume of the luggage compartment that is the main advantage of the liftback body.

So the Rapid's boot volume is 530 liters. And with the rear sofa folded down, its volume increases to 1,470 liters. The trunk volume of the Rio in the sedan body is 480 liters, and in the hatchback body (in particular, in the X-Line) - from 390 to 1075 liters.

In addition to the larger volume, the Czech car can boast of better performance and elaboration of all the details of the trunk. There are nets, hooks, and elements for securing small-sized loads to the floor. As you can see, the Skoda Rapid is beyond competition. A point in his favor. The score is 7-3.

Reserves, by the way, are full-sized for all models.

Specifications

Let's briefly dwell on the technical characteristics. Not for comparison, but for general information. Just to know.

Only two engines are available for the Kia Rio: naturally aspirated four-cylinder 1.4 and 1.6 with 100 and 123 hp. respectively. Rapid is richer in power units. There are also 1.4 and 1.6 diesels with 90 and 116 hp. accordingly, the more familiar to us gasoline engines with a volume of 1 to 1.6 liters. power from 95 to 125 hp. The most demanded in our market, in my opinion, are the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated 110 hp. and a 1.4-liter turbocharged with 125 hp.

Rio engines are aggregated equally as a 6-speed manual transmission and a traditional 6-speed "automatic". For Rapid, "mechanics", automatic transmission and "robot" are available.

Driving performance

Skoda Rapid undercarriage is very similar to its twin Polo. The only difference to the suspension is a softer tuning than the German sedan. Accuracy of control, directional stability and energy intensity - everything remained in place.

Compared to the previous generation Kia Rio, the Czech car steered and controlled much better. In the new generation of the Korean model, the designers tried to reduce this difference to a minimum. They almost succeeded - they achieved good handling. Although, to be honest, some video bloggers say that they are bored behind the wheel of Rio.

The power consumption of the "Korean" suspension remained insufficient. This is especially felt at a good speed: the chassis cannot cope with our roads, it often breaks through and transfers the blows hard to the body.

Foreign developers have made the suspension of the Rio X-Line softer than that of the sedan. Looks like they listened to the opinion of Russian experts. The suspension is softer, but the travel is as small as it was. Therefore, one should not hope that the car will be able to show itself positively outside the asphalt.

Rapid wins unequivocally in terms of "hodovke". The score now stands at 8-3.

Summarizing

So, the scoreboard is 8-3 in favor of Skoda Rapid. Quite a significant gap, isn't it? Of course, I agree that the comparison was subjective, although it was based on some facts. In addition, I admit the thought that for the most part I involuntarily compared the parameters according to which the Czech "state employee" wins. Be that as it may, for myself personally, I have already decided what I like best.

Kia Rio is not bad in itself, but I think he lacks a little bit to compete with his classmate from the West. But in the little things, sometimes, the essence of things lies. Do you agree?

Last year, Skoda Rapid was owned by a little less than 30,000 people. Did our compatriots simply underestimate the Czech liftback? Indeed, for 1,000,000 of the strengthened Russian rubles, you can buy real European quality on wheels, and even with excellent handling.

Perhaps the Korean auto industry has already outdone it? found the answers to all these questions during a comparative test drive.

EXTERIOR

The new "Rio", which is commendable, does not copy any of the older brothers. Of course, he is not deprived of a tiger's grin, but this beast smiles in an original modest way. In much the same way that ex-Volkswagen designer Peter Schreier does for the joy of joining KIA.

Taxi drivers who dream of leasing the first foreign car in the country open their mouths much more. And what - from the LED sections in the optics, and at the back - connected by a single line to match BMW, not only the mood rises, but also something else. Plus the stylish design of rims and tinted rear windows - not a car, but a dream! Although quite ordinary.

After the update, the Rapid has become brighter, more aggressive and meaner - the contrasting edging of the side mirrors, stylish linings and inserts definitely give the car a touch of sportiness. Yes, what is already there: in the Monte Carlo version with its fashionable moldings, spoiler and lip, the car attracts the eyes of even those who gave credit for the previous half of their lives.

Against the background of Skoda, the Korean sedan looks rather boring, but without pretensions to inconsistency - sport and audacity in Rapid is no more than the beauty of a girl without makeup.

INTERIOR ERGONOMICS

The Koreans are clearly borrowing the right ideas from the representatives of the German auto industry, and they do it very carefully. You will not see any "copy-paste" - everything is decorated with its own sauce, and the level of ergonomics is as high as Mount Ararat.

True, she still cannot reach the height of Elbrus - the chairs lack lumbar support and a profile for a comfortable shoulder position. And the steering wheel is so slippery, as if it had been oiled with oil, which is used in their plots by the heroines of adult films. But it will be no less hot here than watching these same films - everything and everything is heated in the Rio, including the rear seats and the windshield.

At Skoda, the warm options lose out in the absence of the ability to warm up the steering wheel. But the seats are profiled so clearly that the riders in them will not get tired at all, even if they have to travel from Russia to the Czech Republic.

The layout of the interior is thought out to the smallest detail - even if the "Volkswagen" patterns are still boring, but you can't find fault with ergonomics. Perhaps only the instrument panel is perceived in the Rio less heavy, and the rest - shine.

As for the interior space, the back row passengers in Skoda will be much more comfortable - the gallery riders in KIA will have to make room. But the ceiling in a Korean sedan does not press the heads of the inhabitants of the sofa as critically as the roof of a Czech liftback. But the luggage compartment Rapid has a clear advantage - not only in terms of volume (530 liters versus 480 liters), but also in terms of layout convenience.

RIDING WEARING

If you can get used to the appearance and features of the interior decoration of each of these cars, well, or continue to argue endlessly about their pros and cons, then in terms of driving performance, priorities are set quite quickly.

In the disciplines "taxiing" and "behavior on the road" Skoda Rapid is recognized as an impeccable leader. The Czech steering wheel is as precise as a Swiss watch, and the chassis settings allow you to turn into corners with enthusiasm and minimal roll. But the car dampens the shocks from the remnants of our roads harshly, albeit neatly.

In this regard, it is more comfortable - the suspension smoothly and smoothly smoothes out irregularities that are ubiquitous in Russian directions. True, the "Korean" loves swing, and his "steering wheel" - lightness.

But he does not pause for a smoke break at a sharp start from a standstill, as required by the Czech liftback - the sedan accelerates smoothly and without jerks, and immediately after pressing the right pedal. Still, the traditional six-speed hydromechanical "automatic" is the best alternative to the nervous robotic "seven-speed". And - judging by the experience of the owners - more reliable.

However, in sport mode, Rapid responds to the pilot's requests with lightning speed - 125 turbocharged stallions are able to satisfy. In terms of acceleration time to a hundred, it overtakes the "Rio" with aspirated 123 "horses" by more than two seconds.

In the winners of the Skoda and in terms of fuel consumption - in the combined cycle, the liftback swallows about nine liters, and its rival - almost 11 liters. Despite the fact that in the performance characteristics of both cars, completely different figures appear: 5.5 liters versus 7.1 liters. But the brakes of the Korean sedan work more smoothly than the sharp "Rapid" mechanisms. But the soundproofing of the "state employee" from the Czech Republic is clearly more effective.

Between fans of European and Asian cars, a serious struggle has been going on for more than one year. Both one and the other insist on their righteousness. Today, we will compare the Kia Rio and Skoda Octavia, and thus resolve some of the controversial issues, as well as determine which is better.

When Octavia made its debut in 1996, it had virtually no serious competitors. Therefore, for the first few years, the car was in just the same crazy demand, and the company had to expand its production processes (Skoda factories appeared in Ukraine and Russia). Closer to the 2000s, the level of sales declined, so the developers decided to revive the market a little and restyled the model.

In 2004, the Octavia 2 was presented, on the basis of which, a few years later, an off-road version of the model was created - Octavia Scout. In 2012, the third generation Octavia was introduced, based on the fashionable MQB platform. Interestingly, the model is also produced at a domestic branch located in Nizhny Novgorod.

In 2000, after a long lull, the Kia company decided to release a small car - Rio. The novelty immediately won the love of the public with a wide range of bodies and a relatively low price. In 2005, the long-awaited premiere of Rio 2 took place. The design of the novelty was carried out by German specialists, therefore, European features appeared in the appearance of the model.

Since 2010, Rio has been produced at the Kaliningrad Avtotor. In the spring of 2011, the third generation Rio made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Soon the production of cars started at the plant in St. Petersburg.

Despite the fact that Octavia is older than her opponent, we will award a draw in this confrontation.

Appearance

Due to the fact that the cars are in the same "weight category", their bodies are made according to very similar technologies, in the appearance of the models you can find a lot in common.

Even in spite of the fact that Czech designers have relied on a solid and representative exterior, and Koreans - on sophistication and presentability, there is a relationship between some elements.

For example, this is a similar arrangement of the dashboard and headlights of the head optics, although the latter are noticeably different in size.

There is also a striking resemblance to the side. The same can be said about the stern of cars.

But, be that as it may, purely visually, it is Rio that looks prettier.

Salon

Skoda Octavia or Kia Rio, who has the best interior? At the first acquaintance with the decoration of both models, the final verdict can be made. Even the Octavia's cabin, which certainly doesn't claim to be class-leading, looks rich compared to Rio's beggarly styling. Take even the dashboard. The Octavia has a rather stylish and multifunctional element, while the Rio has a simple set of buttons and a small display.

Also, the Octavia interior is finished with better materials. And at the expense of spaciousness, the Czech car is doing better.

Therefore, we will not invent anything, and we will award the victory at this point to the one who really deserved it, and this is the Skoda Octavia.

Specifications

In 2017, updated versions of the models were released, the "stuffing" of which we will compare. By the way, for greater objectivity, we will discuss cars with 1.6 liter gasoline engines. It should be noted right away that the Rio is not very demanding on fuel, and it can even be refueled with the 92nd. But Octavia can only work normally on 95th gasoline.

It is very surprising that although the engines of both cars have the same volume, the power they produce is different. For example, the Octavia can produce 110 horsepower, while the Rio is as much as 123. This could be explained by the presence of a supercharger in the "Korean", but it is absent. It is logical to assume that the dynamics of the Rio are brighter. So, the acceleration time from zero to hundred for the "Korean" is 10.3 s, which is 1.7 s faster than the analogous indicator for the counterpart. Rio is slightly less economical - 6.6 liters in the combined cycle, versus 6.3 liters for the Octavia.

Both the Octavia and Rio have a front-wheel drive bogie. As for the transmission, the "Czech" has 6-speed "automatic" and 5-speed "mechanics", the "Korean" has 6-speed "automatic" and "mechanics".

In terms of dimensions, everything is not so simple. On the one hand, the Octavia is 293 mm longer than the Rio and 6 mm higher. The wheelbase is also larger for the Czech car - 2686 versus 2570 mm. But the clearance is as much as 4 mm higher for the Korean model.

Price

As mentioned above, the Kia company has always been famous for its loyal pricing policy, so the relatively low cost of the Rio 2017 model - 560,000 rubles, did not come as a surprise to anyone. At the same time, you will have to pay about 950,000 rubles for it, although this should not hit your pocket hard.