The Rio received a very respectable four stars out of five in Euro NCAP crash tests and all cars get ABS (with electronic brakeforce distribution) plus twin airbags as standard, while the LX (later Rio 3) has six airbags. Every car has an immobiliser and remote central locking.

The Rio has a 270-litre boot, which is about the same as most small hatchbacks. The tailgate is quite wide so getting larger objects in is possible, but there’s quite a high boot lip in the way. However, the rear seats fold (although not totally flat) to give a usefully long load floor. Cabin storage includes a box in the dashboard, cupholders and a tray in front of the gear lever.

There’s also a card slot in the dash – useful for pay-as-you-exit car park tickets.