Until now, driving enthusiasts couldn't get their hands on the Rio they were most eager to own--that's about to change. The 2013 Rio 5-door SX is now offered with a 6-speed manual transmission (M/T). Arriving in dealerships in limited quantity with a MSRP of just $17,9004, the Rio SX M/T is a fun-to-drive subcompact that satisfies enthusiasts' desires for a more engaging drive experience without sacrificing the comfort and convenience offered by the subcompact model's highest trim level. The Rio SX M/T is inspired by Kia's championship winning motorsports efforts and the recently-introduced Rio B-spec race car. Enthusiasts should get in line now as less than 500 Rio SX M/Ts will be initially offered for sale during the 2013 model year.

With class-leading horsepower¹, the 2013 Rio sedan and Rio 5-door hatchback continue to infuse style, value, technology and spirited road manners into the Kia Motors America (KMA) model lineup. All-new last year, these award-winning subcompacts have played a vital role in achieving Kia's record sales and market-share growth since the launch of the Soul in 2009.

Some must have considered whether Peter Schreyer had lost the ability to think rationally. There could be no other explanation as to why the Design Chief of Volkswagen and Audi would depart the studios he’d helped make famous for Kia Motors Corporation (KMC). Back in 2006, Kia was still making in-roads into many of the markets Schreyer’s former employer had dominated for decades. Schreyer, however, saw the potential in Kia and welcomed the challenge he’d been offered: Completely redefine the image of the Kia brand through the power of design.