2005 Kia Rio Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.98/5 Average
32 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

No major changes for the Rio this year.

Pros:
  • Small price, big warranty, peppy engine.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 32.00
  • Dont even think about it... - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    I got this car for my first car and i am desperately trying to get rid of this thing! Two weeks after i got it, 2 of my belts needed replacing. Not only did the dealer keep it for 3 weeks to "fix it", the day that i got it back the fan stopped working and my car overheated. Needless to say we sent it back to the dealer. They fixed the fan, but ever since then ive been having radiator problems. Constant overheating, had to replace all sensors, etc.. Not worth a penny, but if you do decide to get one make sure you keep a full jug of coolant in your back seat!

  • Mmmmhmmm I love it! - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    I bought the stripped down Kia Rio as a "spare car" and I am very glad I did. I got the last brand new 2005 on the lot and paid only $7,000 for it! It has no luxury appointments ... no air, no radio, no automatic transmission. For $79.00 I bought an awesome Aiwa CD receiver and installed it myself in an hour and thanks to the already factory installed speakers it was good to go. The car has excellent pick up. I have heard other people complaining about this but with a 5 speed manual transmission and no air, pick up and gas mileage is outstanding. I would definitely buy another.

  • Worst mistake ever made! - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    Purchased the Kia Rio from a local Kia dealer and have regretted it ever since. Bought it for $8k, got $2k off for a trade in. It was the most adorable car Id ever driven, but I shouldnt have let it blind me. The salesman took me on a predetermined route and wouldnt let me go on the highway or let my mechanic peek at it first. It was at about 55,600 miles when I bought it and about three months after I bought the car the engine died at about 56,500 miles. This is apparently a known issue but Kia has done nothing about it. Total estimated cost of repairs for that was quoted at $2600 and I decided it wasnt worth it.

  • AWESOME!!!!!!!! - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    The Kia Rio 2005, its been my first car. I had it now since 2007, I had a couple problems with the axle. But nothing super expensive, or unfix-able plus this is a used car. People tell me it feels like you are in a go car, which i dont mind it actually feels cool! It is comfy and perfect for a petite person. After all there years still works perfect!!!!!!!!!! Oh the gas is good!

  • The on a budget car - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    This is a great car for a person or family on a budget. It comes with an amazing warranty and driver assistance program. It has simple styling and ample interior space.

  • could be a cool car - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    Since purchasing my Kia Rio Cinco in 2003, I havent had any major problems with the vehicle. I have had to take it back to have about seven items repaired or replaced. My biggest complaint is the lack of horsepower and poor gas mileage.

  • Fairly Happy - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    I got this little Rio about a month ago and so far I am pretty happy with it. I feel like I got a great deal on the car and the fact the car was going to be better on gas than my old 91 Dakota. While the fuel consumption on this car isnt too bad, I definitely feel like it could be better. The engine is a bit lethargic for highway driving and the car itself does tend to feel a little "unsafe" doing anything over 60 mph. The interior is bigger than what someone would judge it would be by the outside. Handling is pretty precise and it extremely light! Overall, this car seems dependable and practical so far.

  • My Car - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    I inherited this car from my Son when he could not make his payments any longer. This Kia doesnt have air- conditioning which is a horrible problem since I am an older woman. It can be so hot in the car even with the windows rolled down. Its like it cant circulate the air correctly. Its not a car I would have purchased, however, Im relatively happy to have it due to the Gas Prices. It is nice looking and needs a new radio. I have heard that the transmissions in these cars are questionable and would like some reassurance. I need to know that I will get from Point A to point B without fear of the car falling apart. I dont know much about these cars. These Kia Rios.

  • Kia Rio Cinco Worst car ever - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    I bought the Rio as mainly a commuter car and I regret I did. Its really cramped interior whether in the front or back. If thats not enough the totally underpowered engine will make you sick. The gas mileage is terrible considering how small the car is (average 19 city/25 hwy); come on it doesnt even compare to cars that are bigger or have more power, and forget about merging onto a highway or passing. If youre considering a car in this market, avoid this one at all costs and go with the also Korean made Chevy Aveo. Trust me the Kia is terrible. But to be fair it does start up every morning and it has an excellent warranty

  • Please be aware - 2005 Kia Rio
    By -

    Purchased this car from the original owner and at first was delighted with car. Kia was in great shape inside and out about 40k miles. Car was maintained according to manufacturer. Took car for oil change to dealer and was told because I was second owner warranty was not transferable so any repairs would be on me. At 74,000k car just stopped dead no warning. Had car towed to shop..what do ya know the timing belt broke and destroyed top part of engine. I was never informed of this until after the fact you are to replace the timing belt at or before 60,000 K. Kia said so sorry we cant help you. I have owned many cars from Lexis, Toyota, Honda and American and NEVER had this issue BEWARE !

Kia Rio Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× 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.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area