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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  Great Car, Great Value, Great MPG! - 2006 Kia Rio
  By Keith - August 22 - 8:20 am

  Was planning on buying a Honda Civic, but after test driving this 06 Rio, it seemed to be an equal in quality car, but cost $3k to $4k less than comparable Honda Civic. Ive put 7,000 miles in 5 mo. So what if no power windows? I can reach across and hand crank the windows with ease! It developed a leak under the frontal area @ 32K miles. KIA dealer replaced seal, still leaked. KIA dealer then replace WHOLE TRANSMISSION @ NO COST TO ME!!! Their warranty is the REAL DEAL! I wont hesitate to buy another KIA. I consistently get 30 mpg in town and at least 35 mpg on highway. I added power locks and cruise for < $600. I LIKE MY 06 KIA RIO!!!

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  08 Base Rio - 2008 Kia Rio
  By Mike - August 22 - 1:23 am

  Bought this to replace my 95 Honda Civic. Need a dependable work car for long commutes. Base is no frills, less things to fail or wear out. Love no power steering! So far, this ride is great. Comfortable, solid and classy for the $ spent. ($10K for a brand new ride with a 100K power train warranty.) Does not even have a radio, but is wired for one with speakers. Most folks replace the factory radio anyway, so this is a great approach for a custom ride.

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  Fine Piece of Machinery - 2003 Kia Rio
  By Tom - May 24 - 9:46 am

  I took over ownership of the car at 17000 miles from my Dad. Currently it has over 92000 miles on it and runs like new.Fuel economy is great.I live in Chicago currently and consistently return over 30mpg in heavy traffic and lots of urban driving.Open road and under less stressful conditions at my previous residence I was consistently returning 36-41 depending on the situation.Kia has the stigma of being cheap but I assure this car is not cheap.It performs very well and I have spent nothing on maintenance except for the usual things like oil changes.The only thing special I do with it is that I use a product called engine restore after each oil change.Kia has done a great job.

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  HAPPY FOR 1 YEAR NOW - 2002 Kia Rio
  By Bandido - May 21 - 10:00 am

  I have delivered pizzas part-time for 12 years. Out of all the cars that I have had for the job, the Rio is the best. I am at 13,000 miles now and satisfied. This is the best car purchase I have made. The stereo is GREAT, the car is as fast as a Civic, and is affordable for whatever you want to do with it. I wish I could modify the body roll with stabilizer bars though.

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  What Youd Not Expect - 2006 Kia Rio
  By carlovermda - May 18 - 2:03 pm

  When purchasing the car, I read that the newly redesigned Rio would utilize Hyundai technology, being a vast improvement over the old model which was based on the old Ford Aspire platform. Though a little loud at hard starts, the engine is very smooth and not hard to get off the line. The seats are VERY comfortable which is a feature that some upmarket models still have not fully embraced yet. Overall NOW this car is a formidable candidate for anyone looking for an affordable car of high value and good quality.

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  What A Honey Of A Car!! - 2003 Kia Rio
  By Picky Woman Driver - April 26 - 2:00 am

  My "silver chariot" is the sweetest car I have ever owned and I have had plenty cars over the years. I love to park it next to a Saab, Audi or VW sport wagon, for it looks better than all of them. I look at its reflection in store windows and admire it constantly. It drives and handles like a sports car. What a surprise at such an economical cost.

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  I Love My Kia Rio Because Its Cheap - 2002 Kia Rio
  By Flashturner - March 15 - 11:46 am

  Like the title says, I love my Kia Rio because its cheap. Where can you purchase a brand new car for $8,000 with a 10 year/100,000 miles warranty except Kia? I also purchased the 7 year/100,000 bumper-to-bumper warranty. Havent had a chance to use it because the car is like the Eveready Energizer bunny. It has the pep of the Pontiac Solstice or Saturn Sky. Its also fun to drive and a miser with gas. I fill up every two to three weeks at $25. Cant beat that with a stick. I must say the car is not put together with the best and strongest materials, but what do you expect for $8,000. Ive noticed that the price has gone up and you cant get the great warranty anymore.

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  Great car for a great price. - 2005 Kia Rio
  By autooracle - March 13 - 4:46 am

  Great used car buy. Reliable, peppy, quiet and well engineered. Save thousands of of a comparable Honda or Toyota. The manufacturer offers a 10 year 100k mile warranty for those who buy new. That warranty drops to 6/60k powertrain as a pre-owned car.

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  120,000 and still running great - 2002 Kia Rio
  By bl - March 12 - 9:46 pm

  My cinco has been the most reliable car Ive ever owned. Im so happy with it Im buying another kia. Why cant we build cars this reliable. I only wish they put a light in the glove compartment.

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  One Year Review - 2001 Kia Rio
  By Carlos L. Ortiz - February 6 - 2:00 am

  Excellent small cheap car. Great city milleage. Exceptional air conditioner system and nice stereo. Very reliable. Already over 15k miles, and have only had to do oil changes. Spending only about $40 a month on gas, or less. Still using same original tires and brakes. Very peppy engine, good for the hills.