2002 Kia Rio Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.87/5 Average
83 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

One of America's least expensive cars now comes in sedan or wagon flavor. Dubbed the Rio Cinco, the five-door Kia provides 44.3 cubic feet of storage space with the rear seat down.

Pros:
  • Unbeatable price, peppy engine, decent build quality relative to price point, inoffensive styling, great warranty package.
Cons:
  • Unrefined ride quality, power windows and cruise control are MIA from the option list.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 83.00
  • How much I love my Kia - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    I have driven this car across the state of Michigan more times than one would think humanly possible. It has proven to be more reliable than my friends new cars of substantially more price. Once, a rear tail light went out and the dealership kindly replaced. That is the only problem to speak of. I love this car!!!! I may have to sell it because of a move to the city, and its breaking my heart!!!

  • Loooooove this car!! - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    i just wanted to let everyone know what happened to me so it wont happen to you. i bought this car in 2007 with 20,000 miles for $4000. i know its horrible but i only got maybe 3 or 4 oil changes. the car has 107,000 miles now. but this car just kept on going. i hit a wall on the highway goin about 50 and i just drove it away. never ever had a problem until 80,000 miles needed new wheel bearings. almost $500. not too bad. kept on going til pulling into my driveway one day it just dies! i knew it was the end because the car had been so good to me it was gonna end its life pulling into the driveway. got it towed to the mechanic and yup, the timing chain broke. broke the engine, $2500 to fix.

  • This car is great! - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    I have been very satisfied with my Rio. It represents very good value, and I love it. Fun, peels out well

  • I love it! - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    This car is great! My dad bought it for me for graduation from high school. This has been an excellent vehicle. I have only had it for 2 months and love it! I was a little hesistant being that it was a Kia and a Korean product, but every hundred miles quells those fears. Take that, Honda and Toyota!

  • Love it! - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    Its superb--no need to spend extra on Honda.

  • HAPPY FOR 1 YEAR NOW - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    I have delivered pizzas part-time for 12 years. Out of all the cars that I have had for the job, the Rio is the best. I am at 13,000 miles now and satisfied. This is the best car purchase I have made. The stereo is GREAT, the car is as fast as a Civic, and is affordable for whatever you want to do with it. I wish I could modify the body roll with stabilizer bars though.

  • 16K miles in 6 months - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    I bought my 2002 Kia Rio in July 2002 and so far so good. I drive 85 miles round trip to work each day and the gas milage on my full size pick up was killing me. My wife & I decided that I needed an inexpensive vehicle with good gas milage and a/c to drive to work in. The Kia Rio was the solution. So far I have put 16,000 miles on it (including a trip from Dallas to Chicago) and have had zero problems.

  • trouble free miles - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    Everytime I get asked about the car i have said this. Bought her new with zero dealer add ons. Starting at 40K and today Id say "got 207K trouble free miles" Check engine light has been working for 11 yrs. Gotta ignore it, it rearly goes off. I am lazy but do the oil changes religiously & read the review warning about timing belts. Got that at 149,000. At 200,000 got front wheel bearings & someother stuff there for $700. Hatch latch broke, using a bunge cord. If you dont like yours I will buy it :)

  • I Love My Kia Rio Because Its Cheap - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    Like the title says, I love my Kia Rio because its cheap. Where can you purchase a brand new car for $8,000 with a 10 year/100,000 miles warranty except Kia? I also purchased the 7 year/100,000 bumper-to-bumper warranty. Havent had a chance to use it because the car is like the Eveready Energizer bunny. It has the pep of the Pontiac Solstice or Saturn Sky. Its also fun to drive and a miser with gas. I fill up every two to three weeks at $25. Cant beat that with a stick. I must say the car is not put together with the best and strongest materials, but what do you expect for $8,000. Ive noticed that the price has gone up and you cant get the great warranty anymore.

  • 120,000 and still running great - 2002 Kia Rio
    By -

    My cinco has been the most reliable car Ive ever owned. Im so happy with it Im buying another kia. Why cant we build cars this reliable. I only wish they put a light in the glove compartment.

Kia Rio Reviews By Year:
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× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

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