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 HAVE NEVER MADE THIS CAR - 2001 Kia Rio
  By BMS - March 30 - 10:00 am

  LETS SEE HERE I HAVE HAD THIS CAR IN THE SHOP OVER 20 TIMES NEEDING TO HAVE SAFETY AND DRIVEABLITY REPAIRS. AND THEY STILL TO THIS DAY DO NOT KNOW WHAT IS CAUSING THE PROBLEMS. THIS CAR IS A LAWSUIT WAITING TO HAPPEN.... IT ONLY GOT 36,000 MILES ON IT I SEE OTHER PEOPLE DO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEMS AS I DO WITH THIS CAR. THEY NEED TO PUT CAUTION TAPE AROUND THE CAR SAYING DO NOT DRIVE

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  Worst car purchase ever! - 2009 Kia Rio
  By mehigan - March 19 - 6:59 am

  Purchased new. Non-stop quality issues. Windshield delaminated at 16 months and again at 48 months. Has anyone had a windshield fail with stress cracks (in exactly same spot) twice within 48 months? Radio stopped working at 30 months. Knock sensor failed 15 months. Electronic control module failed 18 months. Air bag sensor failed. Too many failures to list. I call car "Elvis" -- shake, rattle and roll! Getting in-warranty repairs done a huge hassle, tried three different dealers. Last dealers solution was "you should buy a new car". Kia factory rep never returns calls. Once car out of warranty Kias attitude is too bad, we are not responsible.

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  Excellent good-looking car that is value for money - 2012 Kia Rio
  By sunbomb - February 24 - 8:42 pm

  For a customer profile like mine (already own a minivan, looking for commuter car) this is a great option to have. The car itself would probably satisfy a lot of other profiles, but it is smack in the middle of my demo. Cargo space is not that great, but that is not why I bought this car. I bought this with the convenience package which included UVO (a cool addition) and the rearview camera. No need for nav if you already have a smartphone. Car handles beautifully and very little of the harsh rides associated with sub-compacts. Really like the looks and the interior. A lot of reviews have commented on how the interior does not look as cheap as other cars in the class.

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  Excellent car for the money - 2007 Kia Rio
  By rctpeel - February 12 - 11:06 pm

  I bought my Rio5 new with 9km on it. I drove many comperable models from different mfg including Chev Aveo, Toyota, Dodge Caliber etc. I was impressed with the handling and jump for such a small car. Ive had no issues with summer or winter driving. Ive been religious with oil changes but havent had to do anything major. Just recently at 70K did I have to replace the set of belts before a long trip. If I had to pick at something, it would be the OEM Kuho tires. My front set only lasted about 40K. Warranty is great (8 yrs, 160K km) although nothing has gone wrong. Orig brakes still have 40-50% left on them and still getting close to 450km on 40L of gas. An excellent car for the money!

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  could be a cool car - 2005 Kia Rio
  By Robert - February 12 - 12:06 am

  Since purchasing my Kia Rio Cinco in 2003, I havent had any major problems with the vehicle. I have had to take it back to have about seven items repaired or replaced. My biggest complaint is the lack of horsepower and poor gas mileage.

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  Mileage over rated - 2008 Kia Rio
  By Edward - February 7 - 11:13 pm

  The mileage rating of 41 MPG is very over rated and was the selling point for me. However, for a subcompact the car performs well, and even at high speed is quite and handles well. The second big selling point for a sub compact was the quietness of the car. This area outdid the other higher price cars on the lot. The sports package put the extra touch on the inside. All and all it is a good car, but Im getting about the same with my Honda as far as MPG and the reason I treaded was for better gas mileage, so in the end I lost. Breaks do squeak.

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  Bad Crunch - 2002 Kia Rio
  By Annie - February 5 - 8:56 am

  This car is okay but does not hold up well in an accident. I was in one about a month ago and it wasnt even my fault. The other people had their car fixed and back to work. Mine was totaled at the scene and Im still not allowed to go back to work because of back and neck injuries. We were hit by a 95 Jeep Cherokee and they only had minor damages to the vehicle.

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  Great car at a great price - 2002 Kia Rio
  By citygirl - January 19 - 8:53 am

  This car has been great to drive. My family is a Kia-owner one, and so far out of numerous cars, we have never had any big problems. Sure, every brand will have some lemons or you are going to be disappointed if you are forced into a car or are lied to like some posters here have been (everyone should do research before visiting a dealer, including the disappointed poster who believed the dealer that this car gets 35-40 mpg).The Kia may not be as trendy to drive, but the quality surpasses many brands Ive seen, including Toyota and Ford. The $12k I paid was great and I have used the roadside assistance when I locked keys inside. The a/c broke once and it was fixed in an hour, under warranty.No other problems.

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  excellent car - 2004 Kia Rio
  By baida63 - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I really thing this vehicle is a good buy. It is inexpensive and really stretches your dollar. It rides smoother than my fathers much more expensive car. For what you pay you get a lot.

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  My Kia - 2004 Kia Rio
  By RGreene - January 17 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Kia, both the same model. The first was in an accident with an 18 wheel tractor trailer and a guard rail. The car was totaled... demolished and I walked away without a scratch. The divers cage never collapsed even after it flipped over after hitting the guard rail and being hit by the tractor trailer doing at least 65 miles an hour. One heck of a safe vehicle.