Overview & Reviews

The Kia Rio has traditionally been this Korean automaker's least expensive model. Early on, the Rio represented an affordable, though pretty forgettable, mode of transportation. The second-generation model represented a marked improvement in features and comfort, and the Rio became more pleasant to drive. The latest Rio is another leap forward thanks to its evocative styling, peppy engine and an abundance of interior space.

The Kia Rio is offered in both sedan and four-door hatchback body styles. They have identical mechanicals and interior components, though the hatchback offers significantly more utility. In general, the newer the Rio you're looking at, the better it will be.

Current Kia Rio
The Kia Rio subcompact is available as a four-door sedan or four-door hatchback. There are three trim levels: LX, EX and SX. A 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque powers all Rio models. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the LX, with a six-speed automatic optional. Both the EX and SX come only with the six-speed automatic.

Notable standard features on the base LX include air-conditioning, a tilt steering wheel and a stereo with satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack and a USB/iPod interface. The EX adds full power accessories, Bluetooth, cruise control and a telescoping steering wheel. The SX comes pretty loaded with alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, a rearview camera, power-folding mirrors and Kia's "Uvo" voice-activated interface for electronics features. Major options include a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, leather seating, heated front seats and a navigation system.

In reviews, we've noted that the Kia Rio stands out thanks to its distinctive styling and design. The interior quality is a cut above other cars in its class, particularly in the upper trim levels. On the road, the Rio's engine provides respectable acceleration and excellent fuel economy. The car does have a couple minor downsides, such as an overly firm ride quality for the SX trim level. Overall, however, the Kia Rio is a front runner in the economy car segment.

Used Kia Rio Models
Completely redesigned for 2012, the third-generation Kia Rio represents a large leap forward in terms of refinement and available luxury features. Compared to earlier Rios, it's roomier and more stylish both inside and out. It's also more powerful and fuel-efficient. There have been only minimal changes since its debut.

Previous to this was the second-generation Kia Rio, produced from 2006-'11. It was offered as a sedan and four-door hatchback (called the Rio5). The base model was restricted to the sedan and was the definition of "sparsely equipped." Both body styles were offered in LX trim (which added air-conditioning, power steering, a tilt steering wheel and a CD player), while a sporty SX trim added alloy wheels and special styling items.

Power for all second-generation Kia Rios came from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 110 hp and 107 lb-ft of torque. Despite the Rio's tiny dimensions, this engine struggled to provide anything more than adequate motivation in everyday driving. Models with five-speed manual transmissions delivered better acceleration and city fuel economy, while the automatic fared better in regard to highway mileage.

Initially, the SX trim was exclusive to the Rio5 hatchback. For 2007, the Rio sedan SX was introduced, while the Rio5 could be had in LX form for 2008. Models prior to 2010 had slightly different styling depending on trim, while cruise control and Bluetooth were added to the available features list that year. Antilock brakes were available as a highly recommended option on the LX sedan and the Rio5 SX, which replaced the standard rear drums with disc brakes. The five-speed manual transmission was standard on all trims, with a four-speed automatic being optional. For 2011, the manual transmission was only available on the LX.

The Rio's interior was pretty nice, with a pleasant mix of materials. The car also drove reasonably well. Buyers should be aware that the Rio has had some disappointing crash test scores. On the whole, a 2006-'11 Kia Rio is a decent choice for an inexpensive car, though some competing subcompacts from Japan will likely prove more enjoyable overall.

The first-generation Kia Rio was introduced for the 2001 model year. The sedan came first and Kia followed up with the Rio Cinco hatchback for 2002. Both were among the least expensive cars in their classes. Unfortunately, the trade-off was limited feature content and a thoroughly unpleasant driving experience.

Based on reviews by our editors and Rio owners, the car delivered what its price promised -- simple, affordable transportation, but little more. Complaints centered on its noisy, unrefined engine, poorly controlled ride and shoddy build quality. Although the Rio's low residual value makes it convincingly cheap on the used market, this is not a car we can recommend. If you are determined to buy a used Kia Rio, it's best to go with a 2003 or newer model, as these benefited from a more powerful engine (104 hp versus 96), an improved suspension and a higher-quality interior.

User Reviews:

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  Best car I have ever owned! - 2006 Kia Rio
  By ilovemykiario5 - April 18 - 2:16 am

  I have had my Kia for almost 2 years; got it for Christmas in 2005 and it is the best car I have ever owned. I love the way it handles, the gas mileage and the roomy interior is the best ever! The stereo system is fantastic, the a/c works great as well as the heater, and I really cannot find a single thing to complain about with this car! I love it so much that the lack of cruise control, electric windows and such do not even bother me! I would rather have the good basics this car has than all of the whistles and bells that everyone else finds so appealing!

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  Really Like Car - 2013 Kia Rio
  By natlikescars - April 13 - 1:34 pm

  Excellent car for the money. Gas mileage is as advertized. Combined miles of city and highway for me is 36 to 37 mpg. Highest mileage so far was 45.8 and on a combined trip of 450 miles it was 42.8. Worst mileage so far was 34.5. and we have 3200 miles on car so far. Very quiet car with smooth transmission and peppy engine. In LX you dont get cruise control and I miss that. have the power option for door locks and windows.

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  Great car, fun to drive! - 2006 Kia Rio
  By MikeT - April 8 - 6:13 am

  This is my 5th Kia in 8 years. The quality just keeps on getting better! I had the original 2001 Kia Rio, it was economical and cute, nothing exciting but great value with the warranty. Last month I traded in my 2004 Spectra for the Rio 5 SX. I instantly fell in love with the metal pedals, leather wrapped steering wheel and comfortable cloth. I am 63" and felt more room in the Rio then in the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic I tested earlier in the week. Plenty of leg space and high roof give this car a spacious feel to it. The engine is spirited and peppy. Much more power then you would expect from a 1.6 Litre 110 hp engine. Summary: Great looks in and out, comfy, powerful. plenty of airbags!

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  Excellent car for the money - 2007 Kia Rio
  By rctpeel - February 12 - 11:06 pm

  I bought my Rio5 new with 9km on it. I drove many comperable models from different mfg including Chev Aveo, Toyota, Dodge Caliber etc. I was impressed with the handling and jump for such a small car. Ive had no issues with summer or winter driving. Ive been religious with oil changes but havent had to do anything major. Just recently at 70K did I have to replace the set of belts before a long trip. If I had to pick at something, it would be the OEM Kuho tires. My front set only lasted about 40K. Warranty is great (8 yrs, 160K km) although nothing has gone wrong. Orig brakes still have 40-50% left on them and still getting close to 450km on 40L of gas. An excellent car for the money!

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  Great car at a great price - 2002 Kia Rio
  By citygirl - January 19 - 8:53 am

  This car has been great to drive. My family is a Kia-owner one, and so far out of numerous cars, we have never had any big problems. Sure, every brand will have some lemons or you are going to be disappointed if you are forced into a car or are lied to like some posters here have been (everyone should do research before visiting a dealer, including the disappointed poster who believed the dealer that this car gets 35-40 mpg).The Kia may not be as trendy to drive, but the quality surpasses many brands Ive seen, including Toyota and Ford. The $12k I paid was great and I have used the roadside assistance when I locked keys inside. The a/c broke once and it was fixed in an hour, under warranty.No other problems.

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  excellent car - 2004 Kia Rio
  By baida63 - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I really thing this vehicle is a good buy. It is inexpensive and really stretches your dollar. It rides smoother than my fathers much more expensive car. For what you pay you get a lot.

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  My Kia - 2004 Kia Rio
  By RGreene - January 17 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Kia, both the same model. The first was in an accident with an 18 wheel tractor trailer and a guard rail. The car was totaled... demolished and I walked away without a scratch. The divers cage never collapsed even after it flipped over after hitting the guard rail and being hit by the tractor trailer doing at least 65 miles an hour. One heck of a safe vehicle.

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  This car gives you more for your money! - 2006 Kia Rio
  By Eddie G. - December 27 - 4:23 am

  When I first test drove the Rio I enjoyed the smooth ride and the great acceleration it delivers. Then I realized Im still only driving a 4 cylinder.... who knew! It can really get up and go. With all the safety features and all the extras that the 2006 carries you cant beat it for the price.! My wife and I are very pleased with the gas mileage and not to mention the warranty. It takes the guilt and conviction out of purchasing a new car; we dont look at it as a purchase but an investment. Besides this car we own an SUV and a 3500 Chevy truck so while those big vehicles sit and only get driven when we "have to", the Rio will no doubt have its turn to show us how great it is!

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  Great Car - 2013 Kia Rio
  By kiabeliever1 - December 4 - 1:19 am

  I never used to like kia cars but when I saw the kia rio I was hooked. I average about 31mpg on the street. The car is very comfortable. The controls are very easy to reach and the interior design is very very nice. Materials used on the inside dont feel cheap. As many people say that kia uses super cheap parts. The engine is strong and has good lift. ( I say this statement based on its class, small compact sedan) Outside noise is minimal. Overall this is a GREAT buy. Especially the warranty that kia gives. youll never have to worry about the engine or transmission for 10 yrs or 100,000 miles. I got my rio lx for $15,500 with the power package plus an additional $500 off with kia finance.

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  Kia Rio - 2002 Kia Rio
  By The Cat - November 21 - 1:53 am

  I have had my car for almost four years and have not had any major problems with it. Outside of the routine maintenance, everything else has been just great.