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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  ALOT of bang for the Buck ! - 2013 Kia Rio
  By callmedave1 - February 18 - 12:05 pm

  I was out the door at $15,250 with my new Rio. An exceptional deal . Car has 3,000 miles on it and I love it. Best to use NON-ethanol gasoline as the engine works better and youll pick up a couple more MPG. I get 33 MPG combined driving . Car is very comfortable for my 63" big frame. I swapped out the steering wheel so now I have cruise control which is a must for me. Color is red and it looks clean even when you havent washed it in weeks. Very pleased I got this over the Nissan Versa with the lower warranty.

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  2006 Rio LX Automatic - 2006 Kia Rio
  By hunternicholas - February 12 - 5:56 am

  Kia did a great job with this all new car, buy with confidence. I was amazed how the big name brands are building unsatisfactory cars, and cheating on the number of side air bags if they offer them at all. Dont trust a salesman here, check the fine print to see if they include a torso and head curtain air bags. You HAVE to HAVE both! The Kia Rio has both the torso and head curtain side air bags. Dont confuse these with frontal air bags. The build quality of my car is excellent. The power is excellent. I neednt press more than 1/8 on the pedal and the car moves right along just fine--that from an old gearhead. There are too many nice features to list. The gas mileage is excellent!

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  Fire - 2003 Kia Rio
  By jjszabo - February 5 - 10:00 am

  I bought my RIO new. Just after 3400 miles, it caught fire. The alternator shorted out (the car is stock with no equipment added by me)and melted two wiring harnesses and some vacuum hoses. The dealership made me jump through many hoops to get the thing repaired. I hade to call KIA customer relations to have a district manager sent to the dealership to approve the repairs. I finally had the car repaired under the warrenty program. Everything seems fine now, Knock on wood! The handling and braking are great. The car is fun to drive. But after the fire, I am paranoid about its reliability.

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  Great car and soon to be very popular - 2008 Kia Rio
  By Kay C. Johnson - January 27 - 11:00 pm

  This car has great get up and go! The gas mileage is a wonderful improvement over what I was driving. Ive been told it will improve after the first 5000 miles, but already Im getting 32 mpg around town, so I am quite happy with it. My mom drove it and she is used to bigger cars liked its handling, but said she couldnt ride in it on a long trip. She bought an Optima and loves it. She and I both have more leg room than you could ever want, its very surprising. My dad is 64 and he couldnt believe it. I got Automatic with power pkg and I couldnt ask for more for the price just under 15,000.

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  2013 Kia Rio Ex - 2013 Kia Rio
  By ramoro1991 - January 25 - 1:16 pm

  I am currently driving a 2013 Kia Rio in Michigan. Handles great in the snow with the traction control on (read favorite features). Very nice design, but when buying the ex model it did not come with cruise (can be added). I have been driving this car since the beginning of December 2012, just went over 1100 miles and am happy with my choice. Gas mileage does fluctuate a little bit but have had the Eco on while driving on the highway and have actually averaged around 40+ MPG. Just remember, if youre nice to your car, it will be nice to you. This is my first brand new car and am really happy. Currently leasing for a 39 month lease and wouldnt have done anything different. Love my Kia Rio :)

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  So far, So good - 2005 Kia Rio
  By So Far, So good - January 25 - 8:03 am

  Bought a 2005 Rio new, and now have about 1,500 miles on it. Wanted to see if what I had heard about Kias quality was for real, and wanted a cheap car to drive.

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  Love the car after a year! - 2002 Kia Rio
  By DesertBum - January 18 - 2:00 am

  I have owned the car for more than a year now. I got it when the car had 10k on it. So far, I had the dealer replace the shocks (front) under warranty and a rear seat belt, under warranty. I also just replaced the tires (all four) with Pirelli tires "P3000" 185/60/14 w/85,000 mile warranty (Great tire) and that it, oh, I got tires, cause I wanted a better tire! I get 28city/33highway. I also did the exhaust (2"catback) which improved performance 100%, a must. Might even buy another one or wife!! I would say if your looking or thinking, go buy one. PS. My other car is a Suburban (Big Block) and I enjoy driving Kia more =)

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  ANDREA - 2004 Kia Rio
  By ANDREA WHEELER - January 18 - 2:00 am

  MY SEALT HAS BROKE NOW 3 TIMES WITHIN THE TWO YEARS. I NEEDED A NEW STARTER. MY BRAKES WENT OUT AND THERE WAS NO WARNING IT WENT STRAIGHT TO GRINDING. MY FLUID WAS LEAKING THE FIST 5 MONTHS. MY WINDOW HAD AIR BLOWING IN IT. MY TIME IS SLOW

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  Great car - 2004 Kia Rio
  By lYxFizzyl - January 13 - 10:00 am

  its a great car for the money i havent had any problems with mine yet and i plan on fixing it up.

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  Good car for price - 2004 Kia Rio
  By Bill Schwalbach - January 8 - 10:00 am

  The car costs just under 10,000. I use it almost completly on the highway, and I have been getting on average 40 mpg. Not the most powerful car, but it will get up to highway speeds just as well as any other car with a 4 cylinder engine. The interior has plenty of little things that dont seem to matter until you have them. It has cup holders you can actually use for more than a can. Im 62" and I fit comfortably inside the car without hitting my head. The gearshift could be set a little farther back though. I have to move my leg when shifting in the low gears. Overall, for the price, and for the amount I save on fuel, it is a great car for the money.