Kia Rio road test reports and car reviews

Kia Rio 1.4 Petrol Rio2 2009

Like others, I was quite reserved with my views around Kia. Then came the Government Scrappage Scheme and a serious look into buying a new car. We saw the ads for the Picanto and Rio, really cheap, and the wife persuaded us to go look. We test drove a Rio2, and I was pleasantly surprised to say the least. Was this car really only £6200 OTR with our old banger as scrappage (£2000)? Electric windows, air con, alloys, central locking?? A ride much better and more powerful than the Corsa we were trading in! Much more room all round too, looks Focus sized. My only reservation was... what do I tell the lads in work! Bear in mind I am 40 and should it matter at my age? But when I told them, I was heartened by so many others say they were looking at the Kia’s as a viable alternative to the much pricier Ford’s and Peugeot’s; and "can i have a look inside". I simply cannot fault this car, the price, the build quality, the equipment as standard, and of course the famed Kia warranty. If you are on a budget like we were, why buy second hand when you have a brand new car at this price.

Responses to this review

Thanks you for your detailed review Mark, I am looking at buying the Spec Ed Strike and am thinking it is a great car for the price, especially compared to the Corsa’s, C3’s etc.. I am hoping to put the deposit down tonight! - George England from Cheshire

Kia Rio 1300 cc 2003

I have a 2003 Kia Rio 1300 cc. The road tax is £?170 per year. I think that is to much for an engine that size. What do you think?

Kia Rio 1.4 Chill 2009

Just read other reports and agree what a great little value car a Rio is. A lot of so called road tests are very biased against Kia - most people can’t afford the expensive cars Clarkson crows over so as a Kia owner I would advise anyone to go and make their own mind up you wont be disappointed. The Magentis is a great value for the money car as well second-hand.

Kia Rio 1.6 110 bhp 2006

I wish that this site would work here in Texas! I tried submitting a report but it would not let me. BTW, have a 2006 Rio with the 1.6 110 bhp engine and suspension tweaks.... great little car.

Kia Rio 1.5 CRDi LS 2006

I bought this Rio new Jan 2006, covered now 98,000 miles, so this is a true test. Only one fault at 35,000 miles when a water-pump bearing failed. Serviced on time, no other problems, runs as well today as new. Returns 50 mpg on average. Interior very little signs of wear. Would like a change of model, but cannot find anything better for the money. One last word, in my work I drive many various executive cars, at the end of the day it is a pleasure to return to my Rio.

Kia Rio 2008

I have had two Kia Rio CRDI now and I think they are excellent. I love the handling and speed. With an excellent 1.5 diesel engine it is perfect. I don’t really like the 1.4 petrol - a bit sluggish i think. If you are think of buying one go for the 1.5 diesel ICE or CHILL. We priced as well.

Kia Rio Crdi ICE 2008

Really surprised with this little car, I test drove the petrol version and though it was pretty good, I ordered the diesel version and what a surprise, the engine is a belter, far quicker than the petrol and very quiet, very reliable. I took it to France 3 weeks after buying it and 3,500 miles later it was still as sweet as a nut. Fuel consumption wasn’t as good as expected, but I have been checking the other forums and have found out that it gets better with age. Mine has 8,000 miles on it now and it is using less fuel. Good looking car and definitely stands out. Only one slight complaint, its heavy on the front tyres. I have taken advice on this and have been told to replace them with something like a Michelin tyre and that should stop the problem. Other than that a fine, extremely quick car and I certainly would recommend one to anyone. Bit of advice, don’t read the magazine reviews , just go and drive one, you will not be disappointed.

Kia Rio 1.4 GS 2006

A decent little car. Quiet, nippy enough if you don’t want super performance. I find it a pleasure to drive. It can be a bit `hoppy’ on uneven roads but overall its a nice car to drive. Sharp brakes thanks to all round discs. A decent amount of space, reasonable fuel economy. I would recommend it for anyone who wants a decent car at a low price.

Kia Rio 1.5 GS 2006

I bought this ex-Demonstrator with 1700 miles on the clock almost two years ago. Whilst fuel consumption is marginally disappointing at an average 52mpg over 14,000 miles I am very happy with the car. It both cruises beautifully on Motorways and is nippy in traffic. Whilst I have read reports about heavy front tyre wear (on the insides) I am glad to say that mine has yet to show similar symptons. Wheels were changed around at 7,500 miles per Kia Handbook recommendation, and tyre pressures are checked regularly. Perhaps this has something to do with it! I think that the car offers very good value if you are not a ’badge snob’ and I would happily encourage any prospective Supermini buyer to take a road test in one.

Kia Rio 2006

One of the best cars I have owned. Smooth ride and drives like a much bigger car. Love it.

Kia Rio Ice 2007

Having had this car for one month now it ticks all the right boxes, Kia Rio Ice 1.4 in black, transports 4 adults easily with ease, with the price of fuel its is economical and fun to drive and value for money. I would invite others to try this nippy vehicle, basic yes but the stereo system is great drive is fantastic, affordable car for those of us on a budget and practical.

Kia Rio 1.5 CRDi LS dr

Kia make brilliant affordable cars, this was bought as a second car for my wife but I do find myself driving it if I’m just nipping out locally as it’s very easy and economical to drive. Okay, it is pretty basic but you get what you pay for and I think it’s excellent value for money.