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The Aerio SX, like the
Kia Spectra5, is a competent small hatchback/wagon with reasonable pricing. It
isn’t quite as well-rounded as that car (it suffers from a stiff and noisy
ride) it has more interior space and quicker acceleration, and costs almost
$1,500 less. Aside from the comfort/refinement issue just mentioned, the Aerio
too is a well-rounded car. It does most other things well, and is the second
least expensive vehicle in this group. While that’s not necessarily a
high-ranking formula in every market class, it works well in this comparison.
The Aerio SX feels unsettled to the point of
tippy, which can be somewhat disconcerting (though there is no actual safety
risk involved, and it’s more controlled than the sedan version) at high
speeds. At lower speeds, the car absorbs road imperfections well, but can
sometimes feel a bit jittery. It’s not nimble, but the steering is responsive,
if somewhat vague and overboosted. The 2.3-liter 4-cylinder provides capable
acceleration under any condition, though it isn’t quiet. Wind and road noises
are also excessive. Fuel economy isn’t bad by this group’s standards, despite
the car’s capable acceleration.
Inside, the Aerio’s front seats are high and
firm, and offer excellent head and leg space. The firm, comfortable rear seat
is mounted high, but unlike in the sedan, there is still plenty of head space.
The recently-redesigned
interior features much-improved quality, especially for the price. The gauges
are very clear, and the instruments are well laid-out and simple to use.
Drivers sit high and comfortably, and have good visibility. Cargo space is
impressive, but much of the volume is in height rather than floor space.
The Aerio SX has not been crash tested, but the
Aerio sedan earned a Good rating in the IIHS offset crash test, and Poor in
the IIHS side crash test. Its head restraints were rated Marginal. NHTSA has
not tested the car since its most recent updates.
The Aerio SX reviewed here came in at $15,375,
only $49 more than the group’s cheapest car. The car doesn’t offer
curtain-style side airbags, but includes automatic climate control, a 6-disc
CD changer, and alloy wheels at that price.
Overall, the Aerio SX is
far from perfect. Its ride control and refinement leave much to be desired,
and it isn’t as agile as a number of the others here. But its combination of
interior comfort, value, and practicality should not be overlooked as often as
it is in this car.
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