Overview & Reviews

For 2003, Kia gives the Rio a number of upgrades. Among these are a new 104-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine; various suspension tweaks to improve ride and handling; larger disc brakes; new engine mounts and exhaust tuning for a quieter cabin; and reinforcements to the steering wheel and column to minimize vibration. Inside, look for revisions to the instrument cluster, center console and door panels -- the latter will include storage bins and bottle holders -- as well as new seat fabric. New standard features include child-seat anchors, rear heater ducts, auto-off headlights, variable intermittent wipers and, on the wagon only, a CD player. In addition, Kia has added dual map lights and a sunglasses case to the sedan's Upgrade Package, and will offer the Power Package, which provides power windows and locks. Finally, both Rios get fresh front fascias and wheel covers; the sedan gets a sharper-looking tail and the wagon gets an optional body-color spoiler.

• Small price, big warranty, peppy engine, attractive styling.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 65.00

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  Very surprised with this car - 2003 Kia Rio
  By Trawick - May 20 - 10:00 am

  My younger sister bought one at the beginning of 2003. Although hers is the Spectra, she has raved on how she loves it. Since I drive about 100 + miles per day, I was using tons of gas on my Toyota Tacoma. Since Ive got this car, Ive actually hit 40 mpg several times. With 3000 miles on it, I am very impressed. So impressed we bought two more. One for my other younger sister and one for my sister- in-law.

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  Fun Little Car - 2003 Kia Rio
  By Jace Beckerman - March 26 - 2:00 am

  This car is great on gas and to drive around town. In spite of its 104 horsepower it feels spunky due to its light weight. The only problems Ive found with it is the fact that the armrest on the drivers chair is not at the same level with the arm rest on the drivers door, so on long trips its a bit of an uncomfort but for the most part the car is well worth the price.

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  Good ride - 2003 Kia Rio
  By jcwit - December 18 - 10:26 am

  Have only had the car one week, but very happy with it so far. Mileage is in the low 40s, 42 to be exact, with gas prices at 3.00 plus makes it great. Ride is very comfortable and quiet for a small car, much better than our Metro which it replaces. Handling is fantastic, corners great, pick-up is better than average for this small an engine. Improvments?? Cant think of any at this time. So far, glad I bought it.

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  my second kia - 2003 Kia Rio
  By klg - October 17 - 2:00 am

  this is my second kia, i was very satisfied with my first, which is why i bought another. i like a car that is simple and reliable,i dont need or want added frills, kias are honest cars

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  What a surprise - 2003 Kia Rio
  By DWJ - August 24 - 10:00 am

  Wasnt expecting such a nice little car as the cheapest car in America. Theyve come a long way since the Ford Aspires and Yugos of years past. Havent had any problems with my Rio, driven it hard the whole time Ive had it. While it is an adjustment switching between driving my Expedition and the Rio, the nimbleness and trunk space is appreciated in this car.

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  Just cant beat it! - 2003 Kia Rio
  By RSmith - March 12 - 10:00 am

  I had to have a car that I could depend on. Although Kias have had a bad rep, I went with it anyway. The price of the car is so great, and this car has been so dependable so far. I hope by saying this, it doesnt come back to haunt me. The car rides smooth and when on the interstate its not very noisy, which I love. No problems thus far. Plus the warranty!

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  3rd Kia - 2003 Kia Rio
  By JDcar guy - October 5 - 10:00 am

  I was pleased to have purchased my 3rd Kia the other day. I purchased a used 97 Kia Sephia first, liked it so well that when we were ready to buy a new car we purchased a 2002 Kia Rio. 33,000 miles later, I needed a seperate car and bought an additional 2003 Kia Rio. These cars are really reliable, and a blast to drive. And the monthly payments are a breeze compared to what some of my friends are paying for their cars. You know what? My Kias get me everywhere I want to go in comfort and style.

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  Love My Rio - 2003 Kia Rio
  By rickierex - June 9 - 2:00 am

  I just love the way this car just fits around me, comfortable, solid performance and great gas mileage, and the looks are sleak and sporty!

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  Nice ride - 2003 Kia Rio
  By MisterT - April 22 - 2:00 am

  I went from driving a mid-size pick up to the Cinco, so there was a period of adjustment for me. The understeer from a front-wheel drive car does take a little getting used to. Two months later...I love it! The speed sensitive power steering could use a little tweaking. I have noticed low speed sharp turns have a strange feel to them. And I would say that the cabin noise at low speeds it a little louder than I would like. In general, both city and highway driving, my Cinco is a pleasure to drive. Definitely the most bang for the buck.

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  Perfect for work and leisure - 2003 Kia Rio
  By ericksenmad9 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Bought the car brand new. Only had one problem with it(rear wiper hose kinked). But that is what the warranty is for. Is used for work. Plenty of space for work equipment. Good gas mileage. Fun to drive. I actually have more fun driving my Kia than my Chevy or Ford. Perfect for those who do not have alot of money to invest. Definitely love the turning radius. The Cinco, with its hatchback design, gives plenty of room.