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2018 Kia Rio

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2018 Kia Rio
Save up to $2,590
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MSRP range
$13,900 - $18,400
Edmunds Rating
4.0 out of 5.0
Consumer Rating
(3)
2018 Kia Rio
Save up to $2,590
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Pros

  • Sporty handling makes it entertaining to drive
  • Solid build quality for such a price-conscious car
  • Long warranty coverage for peace of mind
  • Hatchback model has class-leading cargo space

Cons

  • Sedan has subpar cargo space
  • Base LX and S have a non-telescoping steering wheel
  • Standard equipment is a bit bare-bones
Save as much as $2,590

2018 Kia Rio pricing

in Ashburn, VA

Which Rio does Edmunds recommend?

While it might seem a bit counterintuitive to recommend the top trim of an entry-level car like the 2018 Kia Rio, we think the Rio EX is simply the most desirable of the bunch. The base LX and midlevel S are certainly fine, but the EX gets Kia's Uvo infotainment system, a 7-inch center screen, and the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features are worth the extra money. Additionally, the EX gets upgraded safety equipment in the form of a forward collision warning system with automatic braking.

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

4 / 5

Available as a hatchback or sedan and in three, easy-to-understand trim levels, the redesigned 2018 Kia Rio is a subcompact car that is simple yet sophisticated. On the outside, it has an all-new look that is grown-up and stylish. On the inside, the Rio is well-assembled and is relatively spacious considering its size.

Under the hood, the Rio gets a reworked version of Kia's 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. It has slightly less power compared to last year (130 horsepower versus last year's 138), but Kia says it decided to trade peak power for more usable power, meaning that the Rio feels stronger at the lower engine speeds drivers encounter most often.

The inside also has been upgraded, and while hard plastics still abound, it feels very solidly built. The redesigned dash and gauge cluster manage to look upscale as well, so even though the Rio is a budget-priced car, it doesn't feel cheap. We think the interior presents itself better than those of cars costing thousands more.

Overall, we're impressed with this little Kia. If you're in the market for a subcompact sedan or hatchback, the 2018 Kia Rio is absolutely worth checking out.

Trim levels & features

The subcompact 2018 Kia Rio is available as either a sedan or a four-door hatchback. Both the hatchback and sedan are sold in three different trim levels: base LX, midlevel S and top-level EX.

For the base LX, standard features include a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (130 horsepower, 119 pound-feet of torque), a six-speed manual transmission (a six-speed automatic is an available option), 15-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-only steering wheel, a trip computer, a rearview camera, and a four-speaker sound system with a 5-inch display, satellite radio, a USB port and an auxiliary audio input jack.

The midlevel Rio S adds to the standard equipment with keyless entry, heated power mirrors, power windows, cruise control, map lights, a sliding center console armrest and storage area, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, an extra USB port (charging only), a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity and a six-speaker audio system.

The top-of-the-line EX includes the Rio S' standard equipment and adds 15-inch alloy wheels, a chrome grille surround, foglights, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a forward collision warning system with automatic braking, upgraded cloth upholstery, dual illuminated vanity mirrors and an upgraded 7-inch center display with Kia's Uvo infotainment system (which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The EX's Launch Edition package adds red interior trim and partial leather accents.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2018 Kia Rio EX  (1.6L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | FWD).

Driving

3.5
The Rio delivers more sophisticated handling than its competitors and some welcome steering feedback. The economy-oriented tires and strained-sounding engine keep it from being truly fun to drive. Even though performance is average, the car feels better on the road than competitors.

Acceleration

3
Our as-tested 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds is average for this segment, and that's also the best description for this powertrain. The throttle response is linear, and the Rio feels zippy enough around town but runs out of grunt quickly. When pushed, the engine is noisy and sounds strained.

Braking

3
The brakes feel solid and responsive and are easy to modulate. Under hard braking the car tracks straight, but the brakes are let down by the economy-oriented tires. In our testing the Rio went from 60 to 0 mph in 126 feet, which isn't bad for the class, but it feels as if the Rio could do better.

Steering

4.5
The steering effort is relatively light and builds naturally. There's even some welcome feedback from the front wheels, which sets the Rio apart from most competitors. But it is a bit darty, so you wind up making more corrections during turns and even while driving straight.

Handling

4
Body roll is a bit loose on initial turn-in, but the Rio settles and feels controlled through most of its range. Handling is predictable, but the economy tires protest loudly and understeer shows up early. Still, the car's predictability and steering feel make you feel confident.

Drivability

3
The shifts are smooth, but the six-speed automatic has its work cut out for it. Unlike some CVT-fettled competitors, it has to shift frequently. It will hold gears but upshifts when you let off the throttle. It does match revs for smoother downshifts but doesn't execute them particularly quickly.

Comfort

4
The manually adjustable seats are firm but supportive. Climate controls are straightforward, and the system is more than up to the task of regulating the temp in the cabin. The Rio is quieter than many rivals, and the ride is more refined, if a bit firmer than subcompact buyers are accustomed to.

Seat comfort

3
The seats are firm but well-formed and supportive, with some bolstering. The lack of lumbar adjustment makes the seat a little less comfortable on longer drives. The headrest is aggressively forward, but it has enough vertical adjustability that most drivers will be able to work around it.

Ride comfort

3.5
The Rio's best trick is smoothing out smaller road imperfections that make most cars in this class feel busy. The suspension feels sophisticated, but this is a firmer ride than most, and while it takes the edges off bigger bumps, it's buttoned-down and you definitely feel more of the road.

Noise & vibration

4
Outside of engine noise, the Rio is quite quiet around town. In most road conditions, road and tire noise sounds more distant than in competitors. But wind noise is noticeable on the freeway, and some conditions bring the tire noise up. Even cruising, you can still hear the engine.

Climate control

4
The Rio uses a simple three-dial system that's very easy to read and understand. It's capable of blowing very cold and very warm, so it should keep up with any climate. The rear defrosters are a bit slow, but otherwise this is a very functional, basic climate system.

Interior

4
The solidly built interior looks more mature and upscale than those of rivals. The range of driving position adjustability gives the feel of a larger sedan. Still, the backseat is cramped, and entry can be tricky. The excellent touchscreen interface and straightforward controls are a pleasure.

Ease of use

5
The buttons are clearly labeled and controls are easy to find. We especially like the dedicated hard buttons for infotainment features and menus that let you bypass navigating the touchscreen system. That said, this is a well-thought-out touchscreen interface that outclasses competitors.

Getting in/getting out

2.5
The Rio's relatively low roof means you have to duck a bit even to get in the front. Limited rear-seat head- and kneeroom combined with a small rear door opening make the back seat require some contortion for adults. It's nearly impossible to enter in tight spaces where the door can't be opened wide.

Driving position

4
The Rio has a lower, more sophisticated midsize-car seating position compared to the very upright position in most subcompacts. There's plenty of seat adjustment both forward and back and for height, and the steering wheel telescopes quite far, which taller drivers will appreciate.

Roominess

3
The front seat offers good head- and kneeroom, and it feels pretty open. The rear seat is tight in almost every dimension, with less kneeroom and toe room behind taller drivers than something like the Honda Fit. The headroom in our sedan tester was also limited.

Visibility

3
The roof pillars are thick all around, but they are positioned in front so they don't create problematic blind spots. The good side mirrors help with the side view. Rear visibility is quite good, but the beefy rear roof pillars create a big blind spot when you're looking over your shoulder.

Quality

4.5
Plastics abound, but they're handled well: Many are textured and they all feel solidly built. This isn't a hollow or tinny interior, and the overall design makes it look mature, especially for this class.

Utility

3.5
A decently sized trunk with a wide, flat floor and quite a few interior storage options for small items make the Kia a practical little car. It can't really touch the class-leading Honda Fit, but its strengths lie elsewhere.

Small-item storage

4
Again, the Honda Fit is king in this category, but the Rio incorporates several cubbies in the center console, a small armrest box, a good-size glovebox, and door pockets that can hold water bottles in both the front and rear. You shouldn't have any trouble finding places to stash your stuff.

Cargo space

3.5
The 13.7-cubic-foot sedan trunk is average, but Kia worked hard to create a wide, flat load floor so it's very usable. The seats fold down for longer items. The hatchback's 32.8 cubic feet (with the seats folded) can't touch space in the Honda Fit, but in practice it's quite accommodating.

Child safety seat accommodation

2.5
The LATCH points are clearly marked, but they are stuck between the cushions. They're close to the surface, so you don't have to dig around to find them, but they're still less easy to get at than in cars with ports or flaps.

Technology

3
What technology the Kia has is well-thought-out, with an excellent touchscreen infotainment system, a surprisingly good stereo, and competent voice controls. Still, competitors offer more active safety features and driver aids across more of their range.

Audio & navigation

3
Kia figured drivers would rather use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto than pay for a nav subscription, so nav isn't available. Audio quality is better than most of the class, with good clarity and depth but not much bass response. You can specify which sources the Mode button will cycle through.

Smartphone integration

4
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay work smoothly but are only available on the top trim level. The infotainment hard buttons make switching in and out of either easy. Below that it's just Bluetooth. Our tester came with front and rear seat USB ports, and a 12-volt outlet and aux port up front.

Driver aids

4
Forward collision alert is unobtrusive and returned no false alarms in our time with the car. We also appreciated the animated guidelines in the rearview camera. That said, competitors offer more active safety features and driver aids.

Voice control

4
The range of controls is relatively limited, but they work well with minimal misunderstandings when changing radio stations or dialing phone numbers. There are guides on screen and voice prompts, and you can switch to shorter voice prompts once you get the hang of the system.

Top consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Kia Rio.

3 reviews
Rated in consideration of the price
Sean O’Connor,07/29/2018
This vehicle was the least expensive car for which I could fit. It drives like a small Audi. The it is very comfortable for a 6” 275 pound car fanatic. I’ve owned Lexus, Acura, Honda, GMC sedans and SUVs, Toyota, Volvo, VW and Chrysler, sedans a Miata and a Chevy Silverado. Never drawn to Fords interior or driving dynamics, tried, never took. This 2018 Kia Rio is worth more than I paid. If it is as reliable as the warranty suggest, it will be the best money I’ve ever spent. It gets hybrid level gas mileage, it is fun to drive mostly due to the manual 6 speed. Handles like a much more expensive brand and very comfortable, secure handling. I can understand why Kia sells over 200,000 of these WW.
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Features & Specs

MSRP
$14,990
MPG
28 city / 37 hwy
Seats 5
6-speed shiftable automatic
Gas
130 hp @ 6300 rpm
MSRP
$16,100
MPG
28 city / 37 hwy
Seats 5
6-speed shiftable automatic
Gas
130 hp @ 6300 rpm
MSRP
$13,900
MPG
29 city / 37 hwy
Seats 5
6-speed manual
Gas
130 hp @ 6300 rpm
MSRP
$18,400
MPG
28 city / 37 hwy
Seats 5
6-speed shiftable automatic
Gas
130 hp @ 6300 rpm
See all 2018 Kia Rio features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Rio safety features:

Forward Collision Warning
Warns you if a front collision is imminent. Available only on the top-trim EX model.
Rearview Camera
Helps navigate into tight parking spots and avoid collisions when backing out of spots in crowded parking lots.
Automatic Emergency Braking
Helps mitigate an accident by engaging the brakes when a front collision is sensed — standard only on the EX trim level.

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2018 Kia Rio for Sale

Kia Rio 2018 S 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl 6A)
12,373 miles
Used 2018
Kia Rio
S
(61)
Lindsay Volkswagen of Dulles
3.8 mi away
List$13,868
Est.Loan: $259/mo
Good Deal!Good Deal!
$300 Below Market
View Details
Dealer Notes
ONE OWNER, Rio S, 1.6L I4 DGI 16V, 6-Speed Automatic, Deep Sea Blue, black Cloth, 15 x 5.5J Steel Wheels. 2018 Kia Rio S Deep Sea Blue CARFAX One-Owner. Clean CARFAX. FWD 6-Speed Automatic 1.6L I4 DGI 16V Recent Arrival! 37/28 Highway/City MPG Awards: * JD Power Initial Quality Study (IQS)
Kia Rio 2018 S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A)
New 2018
Kia Rio
S
(20)
Hersons Kia
18.3 mi away
Edmunds Suggested Price$14,783
Est.Loan: $303/mo
Good Deal!Good Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
Herson's Kia includes a Two year or 24,000 mile maintenance package with every new Kia purchased or leased. The maintenance package includes oil changes and all regularly scheduled maintenance according to the vehicles maintenance minder system. This offer is exclusive to Herson's Kia. For more details visit our website www.hersonskia.com or call 301-340-3100 and speak to our service consultants.

MSRP: $17,125

Kia Rio 2018 S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A)
New 2018
Kia Rio
S
Brown's Manassas Kia
18.9 mi away
Edmunds Suggested Price$14,926
Est.Loan: $306/mo
Good Deal!Good Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
Looking for a new car at an affordable price? Check out this great low mileage vehicle! Well equipped, versatile and environmentally responsible, this vehicle proves that compacts can be innovative and comfortable! Top features include air conditioning, variably intermittent wipers, cruise control, and more. Smooth gearshifts are achieved thanks to the efficient 4 cylinder engine, and for added security, dynamic Stability Control supplements the drivetrain. Both high fuel economy and flexible performance are assured by the 6 speed automatic transmission. Our sales staff will help you find the vehicle that you've been searching for. We'd be happy to answer any questions that you may have. Stop by our dealership or give us a call for more information.

MSRP: $17,355

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More about the 2018 Kia Rio
2018 Kia Rio Overview

The 2018 Kia Rio is offered in the following submodels: , . Available styles include LX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A), S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A), S 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl 6A), LX 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl 6A), LX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6M), EX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A), EX 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl 6A), and LX 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl 6M).

What do people think of the 2018 Kia Rio?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Kia Rio and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 Rio 5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 Rio.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Kia Rio and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Rio featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Edmunds Scorecard

Overall4.0 / 5.0

Driving

3.5 / 5.0

Acceleration3.0 / 5.0
Braking3.0 / 5.0
Steering4.5 / 5.0
Handling4.0 / 5.0
Drivability3.0 / 5.0

Comfort

4.0 / 5.0

Seat comfort3.0 / 5.0
Ride comfort3.5 / 5.0
Noise & vibration4.0 / 5.0
Climate control4.0 / 5.0

Interior

4.0 / 5.0

Ease of use5.0 / 5.0
Getting in/getting out2.5 / 5.0
Driving position4.0 / 5.0
Roominess3.0 / 5.0
Visibility3.0 / 5.0
Quality4.5 / 5.0

Utility

3.5 / 5.0

Small-item storage4.0 / 5.0
Cargo space3.5 / 5.0

Technology

3.0 / 5.0

Audio & navigation3.0 / 5.0
Smartphone integration4.0 / 5.0
Driver aids4.0 / 5.0
Voice control4.0 / 5.0
Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2018 Kia Rio?
2018 Kia Rio S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A)

The 2018 Kia Rio S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $17,125. The average price paid for a new 2018 Kia Rio S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A) is trending $2,590 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $2,590 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$14,535.

The average savings for the 2018 Kia Rio S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A) is15.1% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 4 2018 Kia Rio S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Kia Rio LX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A)

The 2018 Kia Rio LX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $16,015. The average price paid for a new 2018 Kia Rio LX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A) is trending $2,549 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $2,549 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$13,466.

The average savings for the 2018 Kia Rio LX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A) is15.9% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 1 2018 Kia Rio LX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

Which 2018 Kia Rios are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Kia Rio for sale near. There are currently 46 new 2018 Rios listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $15,225 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 Kia Rio. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $4,344 on a used or CPO 2018 Rio available from a dealership near you.

Can't find a new 2018 Kia Rios you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Kia Rio for sale - 11 great deals out of 23 listings starting at $16,836.

Find a new Kia for sale - 9 great deals out of 19 listings starting at $23,912.

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Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2018 Kia Rio?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

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