The all-new 2012 Kia Rio 5-door hatchback starts at $13,600 in America. The automatic version starts at $14,700.

Standard features on the new Rio include air conditioning, electric power steering, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with USB and auxiliary ports, SiriusXM™ satellite radio with three months complimentary service(9), and a slew of standard safety features, including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM).

The top of the line SX model priced at $18,000 also comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and class-exclusive LED headlamp and tail light accents, a sport-tuned suspension with larger front brakes, projection headlamps, twin chrome exhaust tips, fog lamps, as well as standard UVO powered by Microsoft voice-activated infotainment system (expected to be available this fall) with a 4.3-inch color touch screen and rear camera display.

Engine-wise the car has a 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission (LX only) or efficient six-speed automatic. Rated at 138 hp this engine does 30/40 mpg city/highway.