How the 2018 Kia Rio Transformed From Safety Reject to Top Safety Pick+ Winner

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The Road to Redemption: Kia's Headlight Overhaul

In a remarkable engineering turnaround, Kia addressed critical safety concerns with the Rio's lighting system within months of initial testing. When first evaluated by IIHS in July 2018, the subcompact received failing marks for its headlight performance, automatically disqualifying it from safety awards despite excelling in other categories.

The Korean automaker responded by:

• Redesigning the LED reflector headlights' beam pattern
• Improving vertical and horizontal illumination
• Enhancing light distribution for better peripheral visibility
• Adjusting the headlight mounting position

These changes resulted in the Rio's available LED headlights jumping from a "Poor" to "Good" rating - the highest possible score in IIHS testing.

Understanding the Top Safety Pick+ Requirements

Earning IIHS's highest honor requires meeting stringent criteria across multiple safety categories:

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Important Purchase Considerations

Not all 2018 Kia Rio models qualify for the Top Safety Pick+ designation. Buyers must verify:

• Trim Level: Only S trim with Technology Package
• Build Date: Vehicles manufactured after June 2018
• Equipment: Must include:
  • LED headlights
  • Front Crash Prevention System

The standard halogen headlights on LX and base S models still received "Poor" ratings from IIHS. This creates a significant safety difference between trim levels that buyers should carefully consider.

How the Rio Compares to Subcompact Competitors

The 2018 Rio joins an elite group of subcompacts with Top Safety Pick+ status:

• Hyundai Accent: Top Safety Pick (Acceptable headlights)
• Toyota Yaris iA: Top Safety Pick+
• Chevrolet Sonic: No award
• Ford Fiesta: No award

Notably, the Rio's corporate cousin, the Hyundai Kona, also achieved Top Safety Pick+ status after similar headlight improvements earlier in 2018. This demonstrates Hyundai Motor Group's commitment to addressing safety concerns quickly.

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Advanced Safety Features in the Rio

The Rio's optional Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist system earned a "Superior" rating from IIHS by:

• Successfully avoiding collisions in 12 mph and 25 mph tests
• Including pedestrian detection
• Providing timely visual and audible warnings
• Automatically applying brakes when necessary

Other notable safety features include:

• Standard rearview camera
• Available blind-spot monitoring
• Lane departure warning
• High-strength steel body structure
• 
  

What This Means for Used Car Buyers

For shoppers considering a used 2018 Rio, these safety distinctions create important considerations:

• Price Premium: Top Safety Pick+ qualified models may command $800-$1,200 higher prices
• Insurance Benefits: Some insurers offer discounts for top safety-rated vehicles
• Verification: Always check:
  • Window sticker or original Monroney label
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN) with Kia
  • Build date on driver's door jamb

The 2018 Rio's transformation demonstrates how automakers can rapidly improve vehicle safety, but also highlights the importance of careful model selection when purchasing.