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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  Not your typical econobox - 2006 Kia Rio
  By mwrobe1 - February 27 - 5:26 pm

  A great commuter car for $13k. Im 65" 235lbs and the Rio fit me the best out of all the subcompacts. Adequate power and excellent mpg. Front seats are very comfortable! Stereo system is pretty decent for stock. Fun to drive...easy to park...cruises nice and smooth on the highway. Handling is surprisingly sporty. Interior is styled and laid out well.

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  Wish I had Not Purchased - 2002 Kia Rio
  By hatetherio - February 13 - 2:00 am

  I have had my Kia Rio for about 16 months now. The whistling noise is more than annoying, I have already had to replace the brakes and tires, although the gas milage is great there is nothing else good I could say about the car, I am trading it in this week for something much much more reliable.

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  Good no frills putter - 2003 Kia Rio
  By spaded92 - February 12 - 1:12 pm

  Great car if you need a get around vehicle..bought my 03 back in 07. Had around 48k miles back then..Now sitting at around 125. Worst thing thats happened is a A/C line sprung a leak..no biggy..On my second timing belt..did the water pump, tensioner and pulley on the second one..lasted 120k no problems just didnt wanna chance it this next 60k. It dents easily and the paint quality is mediocre,clearcoat sucks..the door locks have an attitude sometimes but that didnt start until the 10 yr/100k warranty was up..its an old car thats taken a fair beating..Engine still runs smooth like new. Doesnt leak a drop. I have faith this car will last another 100k if I keep it up as I have.

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  No more Kias - 2003 Kia Rio
  By Kat Kat - January 21 - 11:10 am

  Worst Car ever once I got it I had to take in in after a few months do to the weather guard on the windows being deformed. Tires blow out so fast on this tire its not even funny. If it werent for the great mileage it would have no up side.

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  Great Budget Car - 2009 Kia Rio
  By good budget car - January 18 - 7:16 am

  My Kia Rio has so far been excelent as far as a purchased car. The car is a bit cheeply made. One of the few problems I experienced was when I bought my car it had a bad fuel pump but it was resolved by my dealer. The car is overall very quiet on the highway no real complaints. As far as gas with the economy the way it is Kias are the way to go. It makes about 30 to the highway however I have experienced up to 40 to the highway. I am a college student it fits my needs as far as room.

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  Try and find a part - 2004 Kia Rio
  By Andrew - January 12 - 3:36 pm

  After 50,000 miles the timing belt blew. Spent two weeks trying to track down a cylinder head under $900. Every Rio in the junk yard was in there for the same reason. Warranty void because I didnt replace the timing belt at 50,000 miles. Dont buy a Kia! Dont buy a Kia!

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  Love this car - 2006 Kia Rio
  By chris pienkowski - January 2 - 1:16 pm

  It is cute and comfortable with good gas mileage.

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  Happily Surprised! - 2006 Kia Rio
  By LL - December 19 - 9:13 pm

  I was on a very tight budget and looking to buy a new car, almost certain that I couldnt get a "real" car. After researching a lot I bought the Kia Rio SX and let me tell you, this car is amazing! Drives very smooth, looks good and feels like an amazing car when you drive it. I highly recommend it. It is a very Fun car to own, and wonderful when its time to go to the pump.

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  2001 KIA RIO - 2001 Kia Rio
  By hallgnh - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Lots of trouble when I first purchased vehicle. It took dealer four service visits to find the problem. I have had no problem for four months, about 6,000 miles,

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  I love it - 2001 Kia Rio
  By T - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Its fun to drive, econmical, and easy on the gas.