As light and tall as it is, the Rio might seem susceptible to side winds. Unfortunately, it was calm when we drove the Rio, so we weren't able to test that hypothesis. Response to steering input was quick, but lane change maneuvers didn't upset the Rio and cornering, as one would expect for this class of car, was a safe and predictable understeer. The Rio listed to the outside but not severely. The suspension seemed tuned more for comfort than sport but that's what buyers in this class want. It's not a Miata or even a Hyundai Tiburon and isn't trying to be. The power assisted rack-and-pinion steering wasn't overboosted, however, providing plenty of feedback so the driver knows how hard the front tires are working.
The Rio's turning circle is a mere 30.8 feet and that's tight, folks, making the Rio, with its spunky engine and short overall length, it will squirt in and out of places bigger cars can only wistfully gaze upon. As an urban warrior, where agility ranks higher than overall might, the Rio should reign supreme. Next Page