Since its first introduction to local roads, the Kia Rio has undergone a variety of model updates and subsequently has become a popular choice in the hatchback segment. With so many five-door hatchbacks on offer, consumers have to delve down into the small details to find the best value for money option. One area to which manufacturers like to draw attention to is the infotainment systems that feature prominently in the cabin. While most offer similar functionality, some pack more features than others that contribute to driver entertainment and safety. For this comparison, we will be looking at the high-end variants.
Related: Mazda2 vs Hyundai i20 vs Kia Rio: which one has the lowest running cost?
Kia Rio 1.4 Tec
R 347 995
Our rating: 4/5
During the early stages of 2019, Kia introduced the updated Rio Tec derivative to compete within the highly contested hatchback segment. The Rio proves to be comfortable, spacious and most importantly, reliable. In the 2018 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study the Kia Rio stood tall and ranked as the leader in the Small Car category.
The Kia Rio 1.4 Tec is equipped with a 'floating' 7.0-inch high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system or HMI (human-machine interface). The system is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible which allows you to mirror your smartphone and access apps. The system, however, does not include built-in navigation and will rely on your smart device's navigation app. Other inputs to the system include USB and AUX inputs as well as Bluetooth. Occupants can opt for FM/AM radio, however, the CD player functionality has been removed. Further incorporated is a rear- park assist system with integrated rear-view camera which displays on the infotainment screen.
The system is very intuitive with quick access to specific functions made easy by the flanking buttons. Below the screen are two dials which control the volume and allow the user to tune the radio or navigate files. Further enhancing the experience is the Voice Control which comes as standard and is accessed with a button on the multi-function steering wheel, keeping your hands where they should be.
Hyundai i20 1.4 Fluid
R 317 500
Our rating: 3/5
The facelifted Hyundai i20 made its first appearance in 2018 and represented Korea alongside the Kia Rio in the local market and not only saw interior and exterior enhancements made but also minor adjustments to the suspension and body structure. The i20 offers consumers up-to-date styling, modern engines, and solid build quality as well as a comprehensive standard equipment level which is why it is an ideal candidate to compare to the Kia Rio.
Dissimilar to its Korean counterpart, the Hyundai's 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system sits flush with the dashboard resulting in a less cluttered appearance. The screen is flanked by five buttons and an SD card slot for the optional navigation maps. Although the driver can connect their smartphone wirelessly to the infotainment system via Bluetooth, a cabled connection provides access to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Similar to the Kia, the Hyundai makes way with the CD player and retains FM/AM radio functionality as well as an AUX cable port. Where the i20 stands out, is the inclusion of a secondary USB port not only for passengers to charge their smart devices but also as an alternative input for the music sound system.
The system does, however, not include Voice Control and navigating the menu hierarchies can be cumbersome although it quickly becomes familiar.
Mazda2 1.5 Hazumi
R 351 100
Our rating: 4/5
The latest iteration of the Mazda2 was unveiled during December 2019 and has since garnered a lot of attention with its unique styling cues. Not only did the updates happen on the exterior but also made its way to the interior where the cabin sees the addition of new materials and the Mazda Connect system incorporate new functionality.
Sitting atop the dashboard is Mazda's 7.0-inch MZD Connect infotainment screen which since the update includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. To access the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality the user needs to connect their phone via the USB port, alternatively, the user can connect their phone via Bluetooth to access the hands-free functions. On-board navigation comes standard with the new system. While the system does not offer an AUX port it still retains a CD player which is MP3 compatible and the FM/AM radio.
The system employs a rotary style menu which is very intuitive and easy to familiarise with. With a smartphone connected to the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functions the user can easily call out to Siri or the Android alternative 'Ok Google'.
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