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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  Kia Good and Bad - 2004 Kia Rio
  By Elmer Wood - November 3 - 10:00 am

  My only complaints is the paint is thin and scratches just looking at it-----It shimmies at 60-65 and cant be fixed

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  Love My Kia! - 2001 Kia Rio
  By Bobby - November 3 - 12:50 am

  I bought my Rio, brand new, 6 years ago, and Im still driving it. It now has nearly 90,000 miles on it. Its been in an accident, been broken in to, hauled furniture, been on a couple trips halfway across the states, and generally not been treated with kid gloves. Through it all, I have not had any problems, and it has been a very reliable little trooper. I am completely satisfied with this underestimated jewel.

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  Basic Transportation - 2001 Kia Rio
  By Stang - October 25 - 10:00 am

  These ratings are for a car which is basic transportation, not for a $35,000.00 Lexus or Acura. I drive this car 40 miles to work, every other day, (car pool). I have 33,000 miles on it, without one problem. I average 35 mpg. There are no rattles, no squeaks. It has a firm ride, but it gives me what I need. Reliable transportation to and from work, for $9,100.00 plus tax/title.

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  My thoughts - 2004 Kia Rio
  By crapmail - October 1 - 2:00 am

  I only have 400 miles on it so far. It is a little slow and the seats are real firm. Not really a complaint because I did not expect a great deal from a car in this price range. I bought it to get to and from work. It gets much better MPG than my other car which is a main reason for the purchase. So far I am quite happy with the car.

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  Shake shake shake! - 2001 Kia Rio
  By lilbetty - September 16 - 1:50 am

  Oh my little kia! I got this car in 2007 with 45k on it as a gift from a friend. Great on gas and does pretty well on the hgwy, but, it shakes and shakes, Its noisy like it shook something loose in frnt and no one can figure out why.really my only complaint about my kia. I also have an issue with staying aligned though it may be my own issue as we like to drive dirt roads, this car will take you anywhere, if you dont mind being slow on the hills its a good ride, I also feel safe, I have been in 2 accidents Though minor and while the other car sustain ample damage the kia had only a paint scratch in each accident...I love this car

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  Rio, the fun to drive car - 2003 Kia Rio
  By Kettridge - September 7 - 10:00 am

  I needed a very inexpensive, fuel effiecient vehicle since I drive over 600 miles per week. After checking out Hondas, Toyotas and Nissans, there was nothing in my price range except the Rio. I purchased a base Rio with A/C and put in a stereo myself. Great for a first car or a commuter car. The only complaints I have about the car is that the drivers seat is not very comfortable on long trips. It definately needs a more comfortable drivers seat. The clutch was very stiff, even after 9500 miles. The body metal is thinner than its compeditors, hence easier door dings, which I caught a few.

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  still love the car - 2006 Kia Rio
  By 67mustang - September 7 - 6:56 am

  I bought this car in December of 05 brand new. i loved it right out the gate. The car has good turning radius and enough kick to get some speed out of the 110 horse power engine. And the fuel mileage is great - I can go to San Diego to Huntington Beach and back and back again to the beach on one tank! I put some custom rims on the car and it looks and feels great. Controls are easy and still in love with this car

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  2013 Kia Rio5 EX - 2013 Kia Rio
  By wjaamod - September 1 - 5:39 am

  I bought my Rio with 73 miles on it. Ive only had it for about 2 weeks, but so far Im loving it. The Eco feature is hard to get used to, but its a really neat thing once youre accustomed to it. Its got a good amount of pep to it, actually. I love how spacious it is inside. Im over 6 feet tall, and I can sit in the backseat (and front) very comfortably. The little features like the folding side mirrors are great. The inside and outside dont feel cheaply made at all. I am thoroughly impressed with Kias work on this one.

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  My little bug - 2004 Kia Rio
  By donald roberts - August 15 - 5:33 am

  I think my Kia Rio is a pretty neat, reliable car. If I had a son or daughter Id feel safe in giving it to either of them for a 19th birthday. It has never given me any mechanical problems to deal with and the gas mileage is pretty good too. However, I think I will trade it in on a Toyota Prius at the end of this year, if I dont buy a new home.

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  My Rio at 2 Years Old - 2001 Kia Rio
  By Cassie1 - August 5 - 2:00 am

  Air bag light came on about as soon as I got it - dealers say moisture, finally after near 2 yrs they are replacing clock spring, trunk leaked when it rained, theyre fixing, driver seat broke, theyre fixing. It doesnt do well in snow, wind blows it around too much, too light of a vehicle. Windows fog up easily & its hard to get the defrost to unfog them. Only engine trouble is needed plugs & wires. Back seat room limited, cup holders too small for most cups, armrest cant be used comfortably while shifting, A/C very cold.