EARTHY CARS SPOTLIGHT: Spring is here

Spring is here! But it sure doesn't like it, yet. 

We've been getting new arrivals on our lot at a fast pace. So fast that we can barely fit ‘em on the lot.

Here’s a sample of some of the new arrivals:

2004 BMW 323Ci Convertible, Blue, 78463 mi, $11,995 http://bit.ly/1dOdWle AWD, Compact, 5-spd automatic with auto-shift, MPG = 16/24

2005 BMW 325Ci Convertible, Blue, 107255 mi, $10,995 http://bit.ly/1mwqDXM Compact, 5-spd automatic, MPG = 16/24

2003 BMW 325 xi Sedan, Gray, 93025 mi, $8,995 http://bit.ly/1dO9fIc AWD, Compact, 5-spd automatic, MPG = 17/24

2008 BMW 528i Sedan, Blue, 76423 mi, $15,995 http://bit.ly/1fphb7V Mid-size, 6-spd manual, MPG = 18/28

2006 Toyota Tacoma, Silver, Truck, 135661 mi, $9,995 http://bit.ly/171B4MH 4WD, Mid-size, 5-spd manual, MPG = 17/21

2008 Toyota Prius Leather Navigation Sedan, Green, 107303 mi, $10,995 http://bit.ly/1fpclHT Mid-size, MPG = 48/45

2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Sedan, Grey, 66872 mi, $16,995 http://bit.ly/1fpbfvR Mid-size, MPG = 31/35

2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid Sedan, Silver, 91715 mi, $13,995 http://bit.ly/1fpbjf8 Mid-size, MPG = 33/34

2007 Honda Fit Sport, Red, Hatchback, 92922 mi, $8,995 http://bit.ly/1k1JSdK Subcompact, 5-spd automatic, MPG = 27/35

2010 Honda Fit Hatchback, Black, 48687 mi, $12,995 http://bit.ly/1mwrbg2 Subcompact, 5-spd automatic, MPG = 28/35

2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Sedan, Gray, 116895 mi, $9,995 http://bit.ly/1dObhrR Compact, 6-spd auto-shift, MPG = 30/38

2011 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0L Sedan, Grey, 64748 mi, $10,995 http://bit.ly/1hv8I0e Compact, 6-spd automatic, MPG = 23/29

2009 Nissan Sentra 2.0 Sedan, Grey, 105955 mi, $8,995 http://bit.ly/1dO9uD3 Compact, Automatic, MPG = 25/33

EARTHY CAR OF THE WEEK: 2012 Black Kia Rio5

2012 Kia Rio5 EX Hatchback, Black, 44171 mi, $11,995 http://bit.ly/1g3vyN9 6-spd automatic, MPG = 28/36

The Kia Rio 5 is subcompact, but has ample cargo space in the back.

It has a highway MPG of 36, one of the best among subcompact cars.

The Kia Rio has a sportier interior and exterior than other subcompact cars like the Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris.

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INTRODUCTION: Completely redesigned for 2012, the Kia Rio comes ready to pick a fight with anyone in the subcompact segment, armed not only with good numbers in terms of power, fuel economy, warranty and price, but also with a degree of style and, dare we say, refinement not often found in inexpensive cars.

Compared with other subcompacts, the Rio models are wider, have a longer wheelbase, shorter overall length and lower roofline; only Nissan's Versa is considerably bigger outside.

Cabins are nicely put together, easy to live with and not overwrought with gimmicky styling. What conveniences aren't standard are usually available and anyone can quickly master the controls. Both models offer useful space. We favor the hatch merely for added load flexibility and maneuverability. Interior room stacks up well against competitors; the Rio is best in terms of front legroom but offers the least rear legroom.

The 2012 Kia Rio mechanicals go a step better than econocar basic. Its 1.6-liter engine uses direct injection to aid power and fuel economy, resulting in the best horsepower in the segment and fuel economy highway ratings in the 40-mpg range.

Rio's 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions and all-disc brakes are uncommon in this bracket, as are its available 17-inch wheels. Suspension is conventional in design, delivering a ride suitable for long commutes and behavior suitable for the class.

FEATURES:
Rio LX models come with cloth upholstery, air conditioning, wind-up windows and manual door locks, heated power mirrors, tilt steering, variable intermittent wipers, six-way manual driver seat, split folding rear seat, AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB stereo with steering wheel controls and 15-inch steel wheels. Rio 5-door hatchbacks include rear wipe/wash.

Rio EX and Rio 5-door EX come with the 6-speed automatic. Rio EX models upgrade with power windows and locks, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, sliding center console armrest, front tweeters, metallic cabin trim with faux leather door panels, power-folding mirrors, cruise control, and chrome trim.

DRIVING IMPRESSION: The Kia Rio is fun to drive, with a willing engine, 6-speed transmissions, and capable if unsophisticated suspension. It conveys the willing, youthful energy most of its buyers will share.

SUMMARY: The Kia Rio is a good choice among subcompacts because it does everything well. It gets excellent fuel economy, it's enjoyable to drive, it's roomy and comfortable. We like the Rio 5 hatchback for its convenience.

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