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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  Rio RX-V - 2003 Kia Rio
  By Marcus Walters - February 14 - 10:00 am

  Very fun car to drive, handles surprisingly well. A bit noisy at high speeds though normal considering small engine. All in all amazing bang for your buck.

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  SPORTY LITTLE GROCERY GETTER - 2005 Kia Rio
  By TomC - February 10 - 2:56 pm

  I purchased my Rio Cinco in January 2005. It is a sporty little car for the price. The fuel economy is excellent. Styling is sporty. Overall it is a sporty little grocery getter.

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  I love my car - 2003 Kia Rio
  By girl - January 19 - 2:00 am

  I love how smooth this car drives. It is very comfortable and quiet. they also made great colors for the cars this year. I think this is a great family car.

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  Kia Rio - 2001 Kia Rio
  By greygeo - December 25 - 2:00 am

  Reliable, fiesty, economical, great short drive vehicle. Interior is a little tight for long trips but its great handling and above assets make it an ideal choice for two or three people to transport

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  pleased with this car - 2006 Kia Rio
  By petevt - December 23 - 8:33 am

  Nearing 79,000 miles, all driving done in and around the mountains of southern vt. Except for 5k oil changes and regular service, the only work Ive needed is a wheel bearing, fuel tank purge solenoid and air bag wiring clip (all covered under waranty). Put 4 good studded snows on this car and youll go anywhere. 34-35 miles per gallon, Ive hit 39 on the highway, driving at 60-65 miles per hour

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  Better Than They Say - 2001 Kia Rio
  By JJackJoe1 - December 19 - 10:00 am

  This is a peppy car - forget what a few reviewers (and motor magazine articles) are saying about the zip in this car. Its plenty fast, even uphill and certainly on the freeway. We are getting a consistent 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. There is lots of front seat room, decent rear seat room if you are careful (!), and a generous trunk space. The Rio handles nimbly. Our Rio has been very dependable with zero dealer repair needs. To tell you the truth, this Rio reminds me a whole bunch like the Honda Accord quality of the mid to late 80s. And thats good, folks!

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  MY 07 KIA RIO - 2007 Kia Rio
  By JADAVI2 - November 22 - 6:53 am

  Love it! This is my 1st new car. I am very pleased with it. Great price, great car.

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  The Princess and the Pea - 2004 Kia Rio
  By NewRioApr04 - November 4 - 10:00 am

  The suspension system is very poor, you feel every bump on the highway and every crack in the road. Otherwise, I am very happy with the car.

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  Keen on Kia - 2008 Kia Rio
  By Garret - October 26 - 9:00 pm

  I just recently bought this vehicle as my daily commuter to work and school in an effort to save on gas and help the environment. Im very pleased with my purchase. The car drives very well for what it is and the motor is surprisingly efficient. The only change that I made is I replaced the air filter with a K&N unit. Would recommend this vehicle to others.

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  It does what it says it will do! - 2008 Kia Rio
  By Fletch - October 4 - 4:40 am

  This car is a great economy car. It drives well and the gas consumption is great. The warranty is fantastic. The bearings in the front wheels went and were replaced by Kia dealership without hesitation and no cost to me. Very reliable and gets you from point A to point B comfortably, cheaply and with no problems.