As part of the JD Power Associates SM 2006 Initial Quality Study, or commonly known as IQS, the 2006 Kia Rio, also known as the Kia Rio 5, has topped the subcompact category for initial quality. The IQS is actually an annual study carried out by the organization. This study actually focuses on measuring vehicle attributes amounting to 217. This is done by comparing those attributes across eight vehicle categories. Lists of such categories even include driving experience, engine system, transmission system, as well as symptoms of quality problems commonly reported by vehicle owners.
The Kia Rio in the subcompact segment of the study had 137 problems per 100 vehicles and this has pushed the vehicle to the top of the list in its segment. In addition to the Kia Rio, the 2006 Kia Sedona, which is a minivan, also earned one of the highest positions in its segment. What makes this quite remarkable is that the Kia Sedona is only in its first year of production and being on the market. Another Kia vehicle that did well was the Kia Sportage in the compact SUV department.
The Kia Rio taking such a prestigious spot in a well-planned vehicle study is a huge reward for Kia Motors America, the company that produces and is responsible for everything related to the Kia Rio. Len Hunt, executive vice president of the company even states: “Rio is a class-leading subcompact vehicle and an excellent example of Kia’s continued dedication to providing consumers with an affordable vehicle without sacrificing quality. We are very pleased that both the auto industry and consumers consumers recognize Rio’s high level of excellence”.