For The engine provides unbelievable economy and CO2 figures, and doesn’t feel as slow as the numbers suggest.

Against It’s still not quick, and the engine's refinement leaves a lot to be desired. Choosing the diesel engine makes the Rio pricey to buy.

Kia Rio Hatchback

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

A good option is you want your car to be ultra frugal, but we think most buyers will be better off with the 1.25 petrol.

What Car? readers say

4.333333


Key facts

0–60mph
15.5 secs
Top speed
98 mph
Average mpg
78.5
Tank range
746 miles
See all running costs

Features

See all equipment

Size

schematic See all measurements

View the whole Kia Rio Hatchback range

Cheaper

More expensive

Read in full

The full Kia Rio review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

This Rio is worthy of comparison with the very best in the class. True, it’s not as fun to drive as a Fiesta, but instead it has more of the air of the VW Polo: refined, mature and spacious.

It’s worth going for one of the higher-spec cars because they come with a better-quality interior for not a great deal more money.

The Rio range has four engines to choose from, but our favourite of the ones we’ve driven so far is the 1.4-litre petrol.

Reader test team says:

Kia Rio Hatchback 1.4D ISG 3 5dr

I have recently purchased the new Kia Rio. I have had to wait almost 4 months for it all the way from korea, but it definately was worth the wait. I…

Robert Perrett

5 out of 5 stars

Kia Rio Hatchback 1.4 3 5dr

This is a great buy for the money. Loaded with kit, and in silver it looks great with those big machined alloys and dark rear tints. The LED running…

Paul Scott

4 out of 5 stars

Kia Rio Hatchback 1.4 3 5dr

Definitely worth considering. While handling and road-holding are reasonable rather than exceptional, the car is extremely good looking and is well…

John Foden

4 out of 5 stars
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