If you follow me on Twitter or Instagram, you may have noticed that I was in Chicago last week visiting family. I had an amazing trip, and part of what made my long weekend memorable was that I got hooked up with a 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door to use for the duration of my stay in Chicago. Cuz that's how The Budget Babe rolls LOL. My Kia was waiting for me at O'Hare airport and when the valet pulled it around, it was love at first sight. This car is absolutely adorable but not so cutesy that a dude couldn't drive it, too. You know what I mean! I loved the fun electronic blue color and sleek styling. Not bad, Kia, not bad!
The Kia Rio is ubereasy to drive, there was absolutely no learning curve whatsoever. It's a peppy little thing that's perfect for city driving. It also gets 30 city/40 highway mpg which is a definite plus.
Because of it's petite size, the Kia Rio is a dream to park. I can't tell you how many tight spaces I fit this baby into. And when you're driving in a city like Chicago, parking is always hard to come by so it helps to have a small car that goes where other vehicles can not.
Having 5 doors was a huge perk since I always had peeps in the back seat (who said it was quite roomy). The trunk is surprisingly spacious, too, and the interior design is clean and uncluttered. I was not expecting that from a Kia, no offense.
Now, on to the shopping! My first souvenir from my Chicago trip was a green leather stud bracelet by artist Lesa Wallace. She also makes bags and custom pieces. Just shoot her an email and she can make any length/color/style bracelet you want. Mine was just $15 at an art fair where I met her.
No trip to see my mom and sister would be complete without a stop at T.J.Maxx. Call it a tradition. I picked up these Qupid flats on clearance for $8. Love the unique print.
Another must-stop shop: The Talbots Outlet in Park Ridge. I used to cringe when my mom bought me things from Talbots (sorry, Mom) but lately I always find nice things. Yeah, I'm getting old, but Talbots is also trying to attract younger shoppers - not necessarily a smart move because now my Mom complains she can't find as many good things but I'm benefiting for the time being. I got a chambray boyfriend blazer for $29.99, fuchsia shirtdress for $27.99 and leather ankle boots for $29.99. Score.
So that's where my Kia Rio took me! I'm no car expert but let me know if you have any questions about the Kia and I'll do my best to answer. I love driving and I was psyched to have the opportunity to test drive this affordable (starts at $13,800) and stylish ride.
Photo credit: TheBudgetBabe.com
Please note: This is NOT a paid post. I was provided the use of the Kia Rio for my trip free of charge. The decision to write this review and the opinions expressed within are entirely my own.
Love the new blog look!!