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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  should of bought a spectra - 2002 Kia Rio
  By mcsmith - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I have currently 1000 miles onthe car. INTERIOR: decent headroom and legroom,but tight width wise. EXTERIOR:doors and trunk are so light that it makes it difficult to close(bounce back open) ENGINE: peppy around town, cruises at 75 no problem, but no power up steep grades and a.c. overburdens the engine. HANDELING:anti-sway bars not up to par. MILEAGE: 24mpg driving very conservatve.

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  WISH I COULD RETURN IT!!! - 2002 Kia Rio
  By mitchttj - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Less than 700 miles into my "coerced" ownership of this vehicle I was feeling like a major fool!! 523 miles-car dies in a parking lot. They towed to dealership and changed battery-NOT THE PROBLEM! More quitting on the road(with a baby in the back!)and then they change the alternator(somewhere around 700 miles)-guess that was the problem. The car whistles when the wind hits from certain directions, the back windows roll THEMSELVES DOWN and we dont get anywhere near the mileage they said! (supposed to get approx 35-40, we are lucky if we get 25-30!) If you have kids, the car seats dont fit very well! One more complaint, you cant shift the car without spilling your drink!

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  not bad, really.. - 2004 Kia Rio
  By raytownman - July 21 - 2:46 pm

  Not had the car long, but so far not bad. Good mpg, rides well, comfortable. (Im 64). bought from private owner who had already had the head and belt done, along with a new clutch. So the hard stuff is done. I use it as a commuter car, and it serves me well. Not bad for me!

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  Best economy car choice - 2007 Kia Rio
  By digitaldrifter - July 21 - 10:56 am

  I have had my Rio for a few months now, and still love it as much as when I bought it. I test drove an Elantra just before I drove the Rio, and I didnt notice any difference in the ride or power. The 5 speed manual is a blast, with a light clutch, and the engine really starts kicking when over 3500 rpm. The suspension is excellent, as is the fuel economy. It is noticeably taller than most other cars, making you feel more like youre driving a van than an economy car. It has more interior room than the Toyota Corolla.

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  Happy Nursing Student - 2007 Kia Rio
  By Kiley - July 9 - 10:03 pm

  Bought this car Aug 2007. Drove it off the lot with 12 miles on it (now has 40,000miles in 2009). It gets great gas miles and has been very reliable. I bought it to get through nursing school and could not be more pleased (payments are awesome too! Only $230 month). I have heard a lot of negative things about Kia cars and honestly dont know what is so horrible. I graduate in 8 months and will drive my Rio for as long as I can.

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  Piece of junk - 2007 Kia Rio
  By frustrated - July 8 - 11:56 am

  I bought this car in hopes of having a reliable vehicle for once. Day 1 02 sensor went out. 9 months later electrical problems. Went through 4 Cruise controls in 1 year because Kia kept putting the same one in. Went to private custom shop they put a better one in and told me that my car was destroying the Cruise because the car and Cruise control were not compatible. 2 years running lights and fog lights to make sure they are on I have to tap them before I drive away. Handles horrible in the winter. Gets worse gas mileage than the car I traded in for 1995 Dodge intrepid. I got 28 the first month of owning this car now I am lucky if I get 18 mpg. Everyone one I see I say stay away from Kia!

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  double check - 2013 Kia Rio
  By stop gap - June 23 - 4:24 pm

  Make sure of the following: Has cruise? Adjustable front rider seat? Nice looking but look for features

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  i hate it - 2001 Kia Rio
  By jba - June 19 - 2:00 am

  I have had many troubles since i had purchased this car. It has been in the shop a dozen times.Its great on gas but not very roomy . The price was right at the time or so I had thought but i would have never bought this car if i knew then what I know now.

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  Build quality - 2003 Kia Rio
  By kramer - June 15 - 2:16 am

  Overall the car has been reliable, requiring little maintenance. However many smaller items such as door handles, rear hatch handle, wiper arms, and headlight bulbs fail. Also horn no longer works, keyless entry no longer works, and power locks malfunction, indicating poor electrical system.

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  Enjoying my Kia Rio - 2006 Kia Rio
  By Connie - May 30 - 10:16 am

  Havent had my Rio not quite a month but I am enjoying it. I tried out all the small cars and found this one to be the quietest, and most enjoyable. Had a 04 Dodge Caravan and it drives just as good and holds the road in all weather conditions and even holds the road passing a big truck. It doesnt sway like the 02 Camry I had. Cant believe how good they are making the new small cars now. Inside feels like Im in a large car. Have plenty of room for all my stuff. The 4 door beat the hatchback as far as space. Get about 32 miles to the gallon. But only have 6 hundred miles on it, hope will get better with time. Mine is the basic no electric windows or locks. Found out I can do without them