The five-door Kia Rio5 entry-level vehicle was re-done completely for 2006. It has grown-up, providing a longer wheelbase (98.4 inches) as well as having increases in height and width dimensions. The seemingly unassuming impression given by Rio5 (Rio is also sold in base and four-door versions) is misleading since this compact car packs on the safety features, namely six standard airbags, including full-length side curtains, and optional anti-lock brakes with four-wheel disc brakes. The 2006 model year is the first time that the rear wheels can be dressed with disc brakes. (Standard brake treatment is front wheel disc brakes.) The front-wheel-drive Rio5 weighs less than the previous generation car, making a positive impact on braking and acceleration. Rio5 provides 15.8 cubic feet of trunk space. (The four-door version provides 11.9 cubic feet of trunk space, a 29 percent improvement from the past Rio.) A new 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, producing 110 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 107 pounds-feet of torque at 4500 rpm, gives the Rio more spunk than the last generation car. Rio5 – sporting an independent front suspension and a semi-independent rear suspension – rides on 15-inch alloy wheels and tires. The interior is smartly appointed with a power outlet, tilt steering column, 8-way driver’s seat, cupholders, stow areas, and oversized oval gauges. Rio5 with 5-speed manual transmission has mileage counts of 32 city/35 highway. MSRP of the Kia Rio5 SX is $13,500.