Used 2023 Kia Rio Consumer Reviews
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One of the most economical non-hybrids available
I'll start by stating that I live in Los Angeles County. The quality of roads around this massive metropolitan area ranges from very good to pretty poor (meaning pothole-ridden and full of large cracks). If you live in an area with constantly terrible roads, you may find the suspension tuning to not be soft enough for the constant beating, but I suspect that 90% of buyers will be plenty content with the suspension...certainly more so than its larger cousin, the Kia Forte with its very choppy suspension tuning over even modestly bad pavement. Overall, the suspension tuning and ride comfort is decent to good; certainly better than the thrifty price tag would suggest. It might be a little too firm for some over *really* bad pavement due to the front strut/torsion beam rear setup, but the car *does* remain composed and well-controlled at all times. If pavement conditions are fair to good, you'll find this vehicle to be quite comfortable for both city trips and long journeys. Fuel economy is where this vehicle really shines; it is fantastic for a non-hybrid. Official EPA ratings are 33 city/41 highway, but I've been consistently averaging 34-35 city/43-46 highway. DO NOTE that your fuel economy gauge in the insturmentation cluster may read something higher than what you'll actually get at the pump (a weird oversight by Kia). Mine constantly displays 36-39 in the city and 45-50 on the highway, which is 1-3 MPG too generous over real-world fuel economy. My driving style is generally leisurely but I will punch it a bit, here and there. 70-75 MPH on the freeways; sometimes closer to 80 MPH, and there are a decent number of hills in my area. Some folks may be concerned about the CVT's performance, but the CVT in the Rio and the Forte uses a chain instead of a rubber belt. Unlike most CVT's, there's no weird lag, awkward pulling sensations or delays with acceleration throughout the power band...very consistent and predictable power. Acceleration is solid and if you really need the extra power, you can either switch the transmission to sport mode and/or manually shift the simulated fake gears to quickly get up to highway speeds. Honestly, I cannot really tell the difference between Kia's CVT (IVT as they call it) and a traditional automatic transmission. While you won't be beating anyone in a 0-60 race, you'll certainly have more than enough power to keep up with both city and freeway traffic without having to floor the accelerator. Front seat room is quite generous for a subcompact and comparable to that of a large compact. Front seats are on the slightly firmer side but are still pretty supportive and comfortable for most. Thanks to an outward-shaped design of the interior door panels, Kia was able to crank out a few centimeters of space to make the cabin feel just a bit more spacious. Rear-seat leg, shoulder and head room is ample for 2 adults sitting behind 6 foot adults, but 3 adults in the rear is a very tight squeeze. Despite the narrow wheelbase, the car feels surprisingly composed at highway speeds, with fairly precise on-center steering accuracy and none of the constant overcorrecting that has plagued many subcompacts on longer road-trips on the freeway. Steering feel is a bit numb, but the accuracy is certainly there; you know exactly what your wheels are doing and is what you want in a city commuter or long-distance cruiser. Ergonomics are excellent; the controls are well-placed, easy to use and quite intuitive with old-school knobs, switches and buttons. Gauges are easy to read and attractive. The 8 inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple Car Play works great, and the 6 speaker sound quality is quite good for what is supposed to be a budget system. The rear camera quality is quite clear on the infotainment display. The trunk will fit 2 large suitcases and another carry-on with enough room to spare for extras. Really, Kia is almost doing a public service by offering a composed, refined, fuel-saving car that has good driving dynamics, looks attractive enough and is roomier inside than some larger compacts for what is a total bargain these days, then backing it up with their 100,000 mile powertrain/60,000 mile comprehensive warranty.
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2022 Kia Rio
I love this little vehicle. I had a 2007 Kia Rio and this one has all the bells and whistles that I always wanted that one to have. Very comfortable and loaded with fun features. Best car on the market for the money. 45 mpg so far, not too bad.
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Exactly what I was hoping for
UPDATE: Almost two years and it's still exactly what I wanted/needed. Mileage has settled in at about 44 mpg combined. Have had it on road trips to Montréal, Toronto, Detroit, Chicago, and New Orleans. Not a single problem thus far. Have had my 22 Rio Hatchback (with tech package) for 2 months now with one decent road trip under its belt. I have no delusions of grandeur here- hey it's an economy car. But I've been extremely satisfied thus far. On a road trip to Montréal and back- all freeway mind you- I averaged 47 mpg while driving about 5 mph above the speed limit and just some luggage and me in the car. Comfort is fine, acceleration much better than I expected. Sound system is better than that of the Kia Sportage I traded in for the Rio. The one thing I want to stress to anyone considering buying this little car- GET THE TECH PACKAGE. Car would be FAR too bare bones without it. I have it- for US$1800 it includes disc brakes all around, LED headlights, alloy wheels, keyless ignition, nicer trim, Sirius XM radio, automated temp control system, and a BUNCH of safety features including such things as lane keep assist, driver attention warning, lane follow assist, and forward collision warning. The only negatives- it sits VERY low- not the car for you if you're someone who likes to flop down in a seat rather than ease into your vehicle. Also you have to be aware of things such as pulling too close to parking blocks- and you're not going to see much of what's ahead other than the car or truck in front of you. I also would liked to have had a telescoping steering wheel but that's not available. Overall I am completely satisfied thus far.
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Best compact for the buck
I have a 2010 Rio LX and it was day and light difference. The 2022 Rio LX is also the base model but much roomier than my old one. Driving stability is significantly better and even better gas mileage at 36-41 mpg. I don't need any extra option so at $17225 MSRP it is quite low in today's inflated car market. I actually went to see a used 2020 Kia with 53k miles at another dealer they asked $16500 which is crazy to me.
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2022 Kia Rio 5dr S (1.6l) IVT
2022 kia Rio Pro's Looks for an economy car Fuel economy 36-38 city & 40-42.5 highway cheap maintenance 6 speaker audio system, nice for what it is spare tire & jack Con's Nothing... Kia is doing the people a public service by making an affordable car that achieves phenomenal mpg yet is chuckable around corners. Overall, As of now sitting at 3,108 miles I am very pleased with my Rio especially the hatch (more stable) and the gas mileage. The CVT (IVT) performs exceptionally well and wouldn't tell it apart from a traditional torque converted automatic. Lastly, I would change the transmission fluid & filter every 30k miles (helps cvt from over heating) Then change the oil every 3-4k miles with a Kia genuine oil filter and either Total Quarts or any 0W-20 grade oil that meats OEM spec. Best of luck future Rio owners!
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Satisfy
We love our small Rio Hatchback. It’s meet our needs and we can’t be more satisfy with the gas mileage.
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Great commuter car
I am 6'2 220 lb this car is huge inside gets 41 miles to the gallon and it's fast and it's comfortable it's a great commuter car not much more to say if you can find one and you need a commuter car buy one
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I love my new car!
Handles great, feels like a peppy little car even though HP only 120. I can see over the dash, important for a petite person.
Love it!
I just bought a 2023 kia rio s in the currant red color on the 22 of January I will say I love it like how I love my 2022 rio lx I just putted 550 miles on my 23 rio it’s doing great I believe it will be reliable as my 2022 rio lx has 7,000 miles I have never had a problem with my 2022 rio so I hope both cars keep being reliable as the mileage increases and I like that my 23 rio has a armrest and keyless entry and folding seats and no it does not have the technology package update my 2023 Kia Rio s has 8,600 miles it’s been reliable interior is easy to clean and cheap to maintain my other 2022 Kia Rio lx has held up very well after 2 years and 15,000 miles and it’s been very reliable my car kias have been the most reliable cars I’ve owned out of all the cars I’ve owned totally recommend checking out a Rio
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Great car
This is a great car with all the features I need.
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Love my rio
Nice reliable car good on the freeway and i made a few trips always get 55 mpg on the highway comfortable good on gas the transmission feels smooth driving it handles great on the highway not much wind noise and the engine is not loud I’ve had this car for 9 months I got this car in the base lx trim it does not have cruise control but I don’t care because I don’t like cruise but a impressive car for $17k this is like the ultimate car I’ve had from driving basic cars of the 33 years of driving and yes this is my first brand new car I bought update the car is still doing great at 6,000 miles still drives great and transmission still shifts smoothly I would highly recommend the 2022 kia rio or 2023 kia rio and if your looking in the used car market and looking get the 2020 rio i had a 2020 kia rio as my rental car in my trip to Los Angeles and the 2020 rio did great but it has a different facelift and a smaller infotainment screen update January 22 I got a 2023 Kia rio s in currant I still have my 22 lx both cars are great January 26 I just putted 7,000 miles on my 22 rio lx still doing great I putted 550 miles on my 23 rio s I hope both of my Rio continue to be reliable as the mileage increases on both of them
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Wonderful car
Great on gas. This is the first new car I bought and I absolutely love it.
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Affordable!
The dealer did not add a "market inflation cost" which in my term is gouging. Purchased at the end of month. Some dealers need to move vehicles and may apply a small discount. I found it difficult to find a RIO locally. I went out of state. I went with the S Model because I wanted a specific color. The model was not pushed onto me. Competitors models in this size came with additional options with no added cost. But lacked in the warranty protection. I have owned other KIA products without issues. I experienced hitting a deer at high speed with my past KIA vehicle. It did very well keeping me safe. I feel safe in this model. Has just enough room and storage for golf clubs. It doesn't feel like a compact car. Fuel saving is great over 44 mile per gal highway. Nothing fancy, road noise acceptable, ride is firm which I like, easy to clean. I'm not a fan of extended oil changes. So I will be doing maintenance sooner. I would buy again. The warranty gives your investment a safe piece of mind. It is still a new vehicle for a fair price. Other models and dealers charge for this type of warranty.
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Rockin Rio
Awesome body lines ,lots of interior space and exceptional value .Could use folddown cupholders in rear..but the fantastic gas mileage.
good basic transportation.
I bought the S model sedan. I bought it for basic transportation and it weems good for that. I have been driving a 2006 kia spectra for 13 years and got my money's worth out of it.I have just had it for one day, but am pleased with it. I don't have high expectations for it, but it will meet my needs for some years to come. I am pleased with it. If you are used to driving bigger cars that drive smoother and have more luxuries, you might find it lacking, but for me it is a good car. The price was very affordable. The used Kias rios are sell for higher prices than the new ones.
Concerned
Just purchased a 2023 Kia Rio and have less than 600 miles on it. Today I locked car with FOB and two hours later FOB would not unlock it. I replaced the battery (even though it was new) and FOB still did not work. I was able to start the car but the horn blared and shows low tire pressure light and trunk open light (even though it was closed). Drove home and got my spare FOB and that one did not work either. Though maybe programing, so youtubed and tried the suggestions for programing and still nothing. The only thing working is headlights, A/C and radio (digital screen) Inside overhead lights, door locks and windows do not work. Any thoughts on the problem? Taking back to dealership on Monday.
The best car on the road
33 mpg stop and go, open road 44, very fast off the light like a rabbit, back seat down space is very large, low to the ground and wide wheelbase keeps the center of gravity very low very happy. Could use a Tele spoking wheel, padding on the armrest, rides a little hard because of high tire pressure.
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Zippy but...
I like this lil car ok. It's pretty basic, but I just need transportation. For a 1.6L, you hit that Sport button and you got some Zip, I like that! I love that this model had the arm rest, the hatchback, and cruise. I'm a fan of the hatchback over a conventional trunk. It's added protection when weather is bad! Plus I've found it really has enabled me to carry/transport things you normally have a tough time with in a trunk. I absolutely adored my old PT Cruiser, and the KIA Rio is a lot smaller, which shocked me. I miss the added size, when it comes to packing the car or trying to get something home from the store. Definitely a down side & something to consider next time, as looks have deceived me! Another issues I've run into, has been with the "infotainment center". Aside from the obvious drawback of NO CD PLAYER, it only works half the time. Sometimes it will decide to just not perform functions, other times it blacks out the screen, other times it completely shuts out entire applications. I've taken it to 2 different KIA shops and gotten nowhere. The first shop wouldn't even look at it without an appointment...which was a 2 month wait. The 2nd shop said it had to be doing the particular issue right then for them to even look at it or throwing a code...never shows an error code. It did act up just after I drove away, so I turned around and went right back. They tried to tell me that the problem was that I needed to get a name brand, preferably Samsung, phone cord to run from the port to my phone for my phone to talk to it and that would solve my problem of the mic on the infotainment sporadically functioning. Uh....it has blue tooth and they talk just fine...the problem is the infotainment center is sporadically malfunctioning on random functions. Well...I called BS since it is having so many other issues that a "Samsung" phone cord has nothing to do with! So, I'm under warranty but I can't get any KIA Dealership to listen to me and take care of this issue, but I'll bet they'll know what's wrong with it once the warranty is over! Also, in 3 months, I had one of the original tires literally explode as I was driving down the interstate with an 80 year old lady in the passenger seat. They would not honor ANY warranty on the tire AT ALL and I had to completely pay for a whole new tire. I was unable to drive for 6 weeks, as I had surgery on my foot. I had a friend start my car from time to time and drive it for me. When I was able to drive again, I had a problem with it stalling out and it just stopped. It wasn't registering the oil correctly. I checked the oil and the stick showed empty. Thinking it was because it was a new car & had sat a while, since it was showing empty, I filled it up to the appropriate fill line. Not sure where it all was hiding, but after I filled it, then I had another problem. Upon checking the dip stick again...it was too full!!! I have no idea where that oil was hiding, but it went somewhere and nobody warned me that the car would stall out and become unable to start/drive if the car registered the oil was too low. The last thing that warrants a comment is the customer service. I try to keep in mind that customer service doesn't really exist anymore, but when you spend the amount of money it takes to purchase a vehicle, service costs, along with repair costs, you absolutely DESERVE a little bit of customer service!!! None of the 3 KIA's I've done business with have been about the customer. They have all been pretty "Laissez-faire". The last phone call I made to make a service appointment, I actually got so tired of repeating myself that I told the representative that they didn't listen very well and I would appreciate it if they would please listen to me when I answer their questions. Nobody smiles or acts like they even want to be there, much less help you when you get there! I know, I've gotten old, and things have changed so much it's hard to get used to, but why do I have to get used to rude, depressive, non enthused employees that don't seem to want to have to be bothered by me or my cars issues enough to write up a ticket? Or they are all of 20-25 years old and know so much of everything and have super powers like X-Ray vision that enable them to diagnose electrical problems sight unseen? Honestly.... I'm not impressed. I wish I could get out from under this car immediately and into something else, but I'm STUCK until I get it pd off. After this car, I don't feel like I will ever step foot on a KIA lot again or buy another KIA vehicle. My idea of how to conduct business & theirs are worlds apart. The car is nothing special & I won't repeat this experience (which I have since come to regret).
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Little car with a lot of Zip!
I purchased this car last week. I was totally impressed by the amenities that were standard features. This 2023 KIA HATCHBACK is replacing my 2019 Nissan Kick (which I loved) but started to give me some Mechanical difficulties. I receive better gas mileage than I ever did on my Nissan this vehicle also came with CarPlay, a transmission which you can actually put into manual mode— six speakers, great air conditioner, and I must say when I’m behind the wheel—if I close my eyes I’d believe I would be driving my 2019 Kick (déjà vu) I was looking for another small hatchback to replace my check and the price was right seems to be built with love and care and of course the warranty is totally out of this world at this moment in time I thoroughly recommend this car.
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Absolutely regret Kia dealer recommendation
The seat spacing is to small. It shakes and vibrates at any speed. Gas mileage is way off by 10-15 miles. Very little leg room. A/C emits warm air on a cool setting. Not recommended for people with pain issues. Stereo is good. Easy to keep clean inside. I do not recommend 2023 Kia Rio at all. Totally regret buying it. Seats recline to a comfortable position. Plenty of trunk space. Rides rough.
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2023 KIO Rio S With Tecnology Package: A Great Car
Bought this car for my college bound son. Easy to drive, great features with the technology package, suprisingly good pep, and great gas mileage. Yes my other car is a PORSCHE!
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A whole lot for the money. My car is a 2023. oops
I bought a new 2023 Rio 4 door in May 2023. I got a good deal on it with my trade in. As time went by I was amazed just how loaded up the car was. I was looking for an inexpensive car with good gas mileage and this car has it all. Fun to drive. Comfortable and zips down the road nicely. It does get 41 mpg as advertised. It is my daily driver. I only wish it came in a 2 door version. I’m old school. But this car does not disappoint. It delivers and then some. Two thumbs up.
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Good car, good price
Paid cash gor my brand new 2023 Kia Rio S at the local World Car Kia dealership in July of 2023, they offered free lifetime drivetrain warranty. Have had no issues, except for being vandalized in October 2023, they TRIED to steal but only damaged the steering column. It has given me no problems. My only regret isn't the fault of the car. I should have purchased a Sportage or something similar due to it sitting so low, at the time I had no issue getting in the car, but have developed issues with nuclear stiffness. Mechanically no issues, and it has surprising relatively spacious interior and trunk space.
Great Car
Love the vehicle
Ooo! Baby! I love my Kia Rio❣️
My Kia Rio drives so smoothly.
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Second one
I bought one and had it for a year and a tree fell on it. I went and bought another. The car averaged around 46 miles per gallon. And I felt was happy and quiet. I really enjoyed my first one and will enjoy my second.
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Cute car
Seriously Love it. Big trunk...holds all the groceries. Big enough screen I can see the maps.
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It’s a cute little car.
I bought my Kia Rio S (no technology package) back in November 2023 with only 5 miles on it, it now has 6,800 miles on it and I’ve not had any issues whatsoever as far as mechanical or electrical. It is a small car but at the time of getting this car I just wanted something that got good gas mileage and it has most definitely delivered on that. I, however, do have things I dislike about it such as I don’t feel like the speakers are very loud, hot air still blows when the heater is off and AC still blows when the AC is off, it’s just a little weird to me but it’s not that big of a deal, and the only other thing that bothers me is that it is extremely easy to be blown around on the interstate, that does make me nervous sometimes especially when driving on very windy days or during storms. For the most part I do love this car but I do plan on trading it in soon to get a Honda HRV. Overall, I don’t think this car is a bad car by any means, she’s a great commuter and would be great for someone who just wants a reliable, affordable, and gas friendly car. Full coverage insurance on it for a 25 year old is also more than reasonable.
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2023 Kia Rio S (Tech Package) Hatchback
I’ve had this car for about 3 months. I have zero complaints when it comes to this little subcompact. As far as looks goes, I think it’s pretty sharp and modern looking, especially if you get the tech package with LED headlights. I got the Sporty Blue color and it really stands out. The CVT transmission is seamless. The gas milage is phenomenal. I am in my first two years of driving, and bought this car with traveling from college to home (about a 2 hour drive) and I have no worries about it. If you’re a new driver or someone who isn’t worried about the prettiest or fanciest interior, and are looking for a cheap car that gets the job done AND THEN some, this car is excellent.
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