If you’re finally ready to buy a new car these days, you should prepare to spend, on average, about $40,000 to $45,000, which is pretty crazy. Luckily, there are still a few sweet rides in 2022 that are a bit more economical. The Kia Rio is one such ride. It’s a subcompact sedan that offers excellent value with affordable pricing and solid driving dynamics. 

You may not have given the Kia Rio much thought, but it’s worth considering. You can choose your trim levels and add-on features to customize according to your preferences. In the end, the Kia Rio continues to be one of the most affordable options for 2022 model options. So, how much does the fully loaded 2022 Kia Rio cost, and is it still going to be one of the cheapest buys at the highest trim level?

How much will the 2022 Kia Rio cost you?

It’s no secret that the Kia Rio is one of the absolute least expensive new cars you can buy today, as CNET says. However, you might be wondering if it’s affordable at every trim level. From the entry-level to the top-of-line variation, you might be surprised.

You can get your 2022 Kia Rio in a four-door subcompact sedan or the popular hatchback design. There are two trims, the LX and the S, and there is a roster of standard equipment you can expect regardless of how you build your Rio. For example, every Rio is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, harnessing 120 horsepower. All Rio models come in front-wheel-drive, have a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen, and both Android and Apple wireless pairing capability, according to Kia.

If you choose to buy a 2022 Kia Rio LX, you can expect to pay an entry-level MSRP of $16,250. Bumping up to the higher trim will still be incredibly affordable. The MSRP for the S trim is still only $17,950 to $18,105.

What you get with a fully loaded S trim 

Edmunds helps to break down the various amenities and equipment you can get with the 2022 Kia Rio S. In addition to the standard roster of equipment, the S trim also provides remote keyless entry, must-have cruise control, and a rear USB port. There is also a 60/40-split folding seat in the back and a sliding center armrest. SiriusXM Satellite Radio and LED headlights are also available.

Available add-ons and must-have Kia Rio accessories

There are plenty of other add-ons and upgrades to consider with your 2022 Kia Rio, including the S Technology package that adds a full menu of must-have innovations for just an extra $1,800, according to Kia. When you add this package, you’ll enjoy a push-button start, automatic climate control, an upgraded stereo system, and a 4.2-inch driver info display. The safety tech gets a boost, too, with forward-collision warning, driver attention warning, lane-following assist, lane-keeping assist, and lane departure warning systems as part of the tech upgrade.

Other incidentals you can add to your 2022 Kia Rio build-out include a cargo mat for $95, a cargo net for $50, a cargo tray for $115, and carpeted floor mats for $155. You can even add the EC mirror with Homelink and Compass for just $350. On the exterior, you can also consider optional wheel locks, adding $60, rear bumper applique that adds $75, or mudguards for an additional $115.

The 2022 Kia Rio demands a look, especially if you’re looking for an affordable subcompact sedan or hatchback packed full of must-have features. Even at the highest trim, with all the available bells and whistles, you could still drive off with a brand-new Rio for less than $20,000. In today’s standards of new car pricing, it doesn’t get much cheaper than that.