2022 Kia Rio vs. 2022 Nissan Versa

What factors do you consider when shopping for a vehicle? Style and design are important to many people. Safety and technology, as well. Then there's performance. All of these will be looked at here in a comparison between the 2022 Kia Rio and the 2022 Nissan Versa.

When all is said and done, you may discover that one suits you better than the other.

Design & Style

In the 2022 Kia Rio, you'll be able to enjoy a simple, exceptionally pleasant interior. For a subcompact, the overall interior design is sophisticated and mature. The door pockets are competitively sized, as is its center console. The dashboard has easy-to-use audio and climate controls. For what you will spend, you're getting a lot of car. The term "getting a lot of bang for your buck" definitely applies here.

The interior of the Versa is well built and the trunk is large. Unfortunately, compared to some of its rivals, the backseat is significantly smaller. On the base model, you won't find any leather upholstery or power adjustable seats. But the upgrade can include a leather wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, as well as heated front seats. Out of 10 possible points, the Versa’s interior only rates a 6.6.

Technology & Safety

Starting with the technology, the wireless smart phone mirroring feature (Android and Apple phones can be used with this wireless feature) comes standard with the Rio, as well as its 8.0-inch touchscreen. Truth be told, a solid array of features come standard in a car whose driving experience is being referred to as nothing less than "sophisticated."

Lane-keep assist and lane departure warning – as well as automated emergency braking and forward collision warning – are available.

The standard touchscreen is a slightly lesser in the Versa at 7.0 inches. Keep in mind, however, that if you're looking for Android Auto Integration and Apple CarPlay, you have to go with the SR and SV trim levels. The same goes if you're interested in Sirius XM satellite. You’ll need an upgraded model.

The safety features in a Versa are impressively advanced. Adaptive cruise control, rear cross traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring are available. Rear and front automated emergency braking is standard.

Performance

Compared to more expensive models, the driving experience in a Rio is similar. It performs like a champ. The Kia Rio offers one choice of horsepower – 120 HP. But that's all it needs. On the highway, you can expect roughly 41 miles per gallon, and in the city, 33 miles per gallon.

You get good mileage with a Versa. On the highway, you can expect between 35 and 40 miles per gallon. In the city, between 27 and 32. For performance, however, some may find it lacking. It isn't very quick. The 122 hp engine, though it should be sufficient, just doesn't have the get-up-and-go most people look for. In fact, out of 10, the Nissan Versa only rates 6.4 for performance.

The Bottom Line

With excellent fuel economy, a straightforward infotainment system, and comfortable, agile driving dynamics, the Kia Rio appeals to families, singles, couples – basically everyone. No significant changes were made for this model compared to last year. What does that mean? Kia obviously has this whole thing figured out – consistently offering the best.

On the base model of the Versa, some of its most popular features are simply not available. The smaller back seat and the lack of quickness will turn some people off. Its safety features are impressive, however, and it's affordable.

Ready to Set Up a 2022 Kia Rio Test Drive?

Are you ready to purchase a new 2022 Kia Rio? If you said “yes,” stop in and check out South Shore Kia! Here, you’ll see an amazing selection of new 2022 Kia Rio models from which to choose. Schedule your appointment now to visit South Shore Kia. We look forward to helping you discover your new dream car!