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:

• 

  My First Kia - 2005 Kia Rio
  By Burtimymus - May 20 - 4:30 pm

  Great first time small car; since Ive owned it have done over 1000 miles & it hasnt missed a beat. Did not like that I couldnt order a base one from my dealer but the up package I got with A/C made it a better car than I thought it would be. I love this car so far, the only downside I have noticed is I have to turn the overdrive off when going up steep hills, but definitely cannot grumble about the warranty. At the price I paid this car is a steal.

• 

  Good second car - 2002 Kia Rio
  By tkorcal - May 14 - 10:00 am

  Has been a good dependable second car. Too small for primary vehicle of family. Would be good for young person also. No problems, Oil changes only.

• 

  I Love My Kia Rio - 2005 Kia Rio
  By Bianca Gunn - May 12 - 12:36 am

  I bought this car for the warranty, and to save money on gas. I am very pleased. I have put nearly 1000 miles on it, and am happier with this cute little car than the day I took delivery. Every time I drive it I find something else about it that impresses me. The Rio is comfortable and the interior design well thought out. I love the way the power windows on my Rio raise or lower for thirty seconds after shutting down the engine, I also like the easy to read and access instrument panels. The ride is a little stiff, but seems to be smoothing out with more miles; "road noise" is not so bad that I have to blast the radio; a quiet conversation is also possible. I traded a truck for the KIA.

• 

  Excellent Car - 2004 Kia Rio
  By Denise711 - May 2 - 10:00 am

  I love my new 2004 Rio. It is fun to drive and very comfortable. I like it also because with the rising gas prices it still doesnt cost much to fill up the tank. My car gets good gas milelage. I like the way it looks and even though it may look small it is very roomy.It also has a good stereo with a cd player. It is a very smooth driving car at a good price and I woudnt trade it for any other car.

• 

  YOU GOTTA DRIVE IT. - 2007 Kia Rio
  By SKI - April 29 - 5:16 am

  You gotta drive this thing, I love it. I read a review that said this was not a good car. Go drive one. I drove some of the other cars in its class and the Rio is bigger than most and more power than most. 6 airbags and an awesome look to it. Plenty of room for all my junk. I have 3 kids that I take with me when my wife is at work and we fit perfect.

• 

  Great value! - 2008 Kia Rio
  By braindeadunit - April 25 - 7:47 am

  Im getting great gas mileage, and despite mixed rated for 29, Im getting 34+ mpg. The gearing is just about right, giving its power (and efficiency) in all the right places -- with the manual trans you wont feel like you have such a small engine (reviews on internet says the auto can feel sluggish). The car has a lot of nice touches -- arm rest, aux input, stub holder, center console orientation, the list goes on. All of the small things add up to get a comfortable ride. I cant think of any downsides, although friends have reported the back seats feel a bit cramped. I bought it used, and I think when it comes time to buy a new car, Ill go with a Rio (or Hyundais version, the Accent).

• 

  NEVER BUY A KIA!! - 2004 Kia Rio
  By akheier - April 15 - 2:33 am

  I was driving home down hwy 50 and the car suddenly shut off. There were 2 semi-trucks behind me that had to swerve to miss me! I was almost killed over this stupid car! As I drove it happened a few more times and it turned out to be the circuit breaker. Since then I have had probs with brakes, AC, axle, and now the trans! The car I drove before this gave me very few minor probs until the trans finally went out at 206k miles. The Kia only has 52K! Please listen to my advice and stay away from Korean cars or any Asian car for that matter

• 

  Rio LX, Great 2nd Car! - 2007 Kia Rio
  By clnels-dfw - April 2 - 11:36 pm

  Bought a new Hyundai Santa Fe Ltd last Fall. And although I love driving the vehicle, Im not thrilled with my mileage. I spent one night looking on the net for a "get about town" car and found the Rio. Love this little gem. A fun car to drive and 30+ mpg city. Sometimes miss the bells and whistles (my seat warmers and power door locks) but this car is a blast! Great heater, surprising trunk space. Add a good window tint, and it has a great look. Not "budget" at all; a real bargain. Remains to be seen about reliability, and the A/C. But with the great warranty, Im just not worried. Not my choice for a long road trip, except for mileage.

• 

  Love My Rio - 2006 Kia Rio
  By sempercool16 - April 2 - 6:46 am

  This is my first car and I bought it with my parents. It is the perfect car for me. I have a job and I go to school it is very enjoyable to drive. I mainly use it for around town, but seldom go highway. Its a peppy little car for its small little Kia engine. But its very fun to drive. Above all great car.

• 

  ooops - 2002 Kia Rio
  By Ron Kotler - March 30 - 4:46 am

  Fuel mi.(@55mph.) stinks,,,trans. hunts all the time. driving layout poor. body, at freeway speeds, sounds like your in a wind tunnel. just a terrible auto! Im afraid to drive it, it may cost me again.It holds the road ,,,,Not.