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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  Get what you pay for - 2001 Kia Rio
  By Kalamazoo - August 6 - 10:00 am

  The price is very appealing (not to mention the warranty), but Ive had nothing but problems after purchasing my new KIA Rio. At only 900 miles, the computer was shot. I was without a car for over two weeks as the dealership in Lansing, MI had the part on order. No loaner car while waiting, never calling me with status, etc! Since then it has never ran very well .. makes a whistling sound going down the highway about 70MPH, hard starting, etc Steer clear of the 2001 Kia Rio!

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  Commuter - 2007 Kia Rio
  By Aaron - July 24 - 1:10 am

  I have a 140 mile round trip commute and needed a good mpg car. I knew the Kia would get good mileage and the long warranty was important, but I did not expect it would be so fun to drive. I have actually had it up to 100 mph and seemed like it had a little more to give, I didnt want to push my luck though.

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  Fun and Sporty little car! - 2010 Kia Rio
  By mikeyt - July 23 - 3:36 pm

  I love this car. It is so sporty with all the cool features (see below). It is not as commonly seen as its rivals (Corolla, Civic, Fit, and Yaris) so it stands out a lot more!

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  Good basic Transportation - 2002 Kia Rio
  By tkorcal - July 11 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Rio in Jan. 02. I have had no problems. I use it as a second car for work and back daily and running the kids back and forth.

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  I love it - 2002 Kia Rio
  By Riand - July 10 - 2:13 pm

  I love my little Kia , its done well over the years and have been reliable. I havent had any problems with the car and I would recomend some one to buy!

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  I love this little car! - 2007 Kia Rio
  By Mom of two - July 1 - 7:33 pm

  This little car has continued to impress. My SX Rio5 had the power and sport packages which turned heads. It has been SO FUN TO DRIVE, so sporty/adorable and the gas mileage is the envy of all my friends and complete strangers who ask and gasp about the excellent MPG! I have enjoyed this car for three years now and have been spoiled by my exceptional dealership. Whenever taking my car in for warranty service or an oil change, Id get a complimentary ride to work and back; theyd even give me a free car wash and replace lightbulbs in a jiffy. I now find myself needing a roomier car (minivan w/ a growing family of 4). Im sad to let go of my trusty friend; he was so reliable and kept me safe!

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  Great car for the money. - 2003 Kia Rio
  By buddy1970 - June 23 - 10:00 am

  Great car for the money,if you are just looking for basic transportation.

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  cute but cramped - 2001 Kia Rio
  By KathyR - June 18 - 10:00 am

  I have had absolutely no problems with this car, but it is not for a family (I have 4 people!) and not for long trips. If you are larger/taller, it is not for you. Good performance for a small car with auto and air and great on gas mileage. Instrumentation simple and all within easy reach.

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  Consider it - 2003 Kia Rio
  By PA Rio - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I shopped around for the lowest priced car that would be comfortable to drive and have all the necessary features, no more, no less. I found it in the 2003 Kia Rio. I am 62 and find the drivers seat very comfortable. Plenty of head and leg room. Nothing fancy about this car but it has a nice style and it is very inexpensive. Only downside is the power. I bought the automatic and it doesnt have much pep but if you are not "punching" the gas petal all the time, you probably dont care anyway. 30 MPG in city even though it is supposed to get less. Nice car, nice price.

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  A lot of car for just a few bucks! - 2002 Kia Rio
  By Carlos L. Ortiz - June 4 - 10:00 am

  Its been 9 months and 10.5K miles and I am very happy with my little cheap car. Other family members who made fun of me at time of purchase have driven it and been impressed. Dealership excellent service has been a plus in terms of customer satisfaction. A/C was freezing, got it fixed in one day, never had a problem again with it. Dealership provided ride to work and pick up. Hey! Thats European Service at Korean Price! Recommend the car and probably will replace for a bigger Kia. Cousin already bought Rio Cinco after my experience!