Name: 2003 Kia Rio
Brand: Kia

Kia Rio

EPA MPG: NA

RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

2003 Small sedans/hatchbacks Ratings

2003 Kia Rio

$2,850 - $2,875

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser

$2,775 - $2,900

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Ford Focus

$2,925 - $4,150

EPA MPG 28 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Honda Civic

$3,150 - $4,900

EPA MPG 34 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Honda Civic Hybrid

$ NA

EPA MPG 40 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Hyundai Accent

$2,850 - $2,925

EPA MPG 29 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Hyundai Elantra

$3,025 - $3,075

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Kia Spectra

$2,725 - $2,750

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Mazda Protege

$3,050 - $4,625

EPA MPG 27 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Mitsubishi Lancer

$2,925 - $11,050

EPA MPG 26 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Nissan Sentra

$2,950 - $4,025

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Pontiac Vibe

$3,100 - $3,350

EPA MPG 30 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Saturn Ion

$2,775 - $2,950

EPA MPG 27 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Subaru Impreza

$3,025 - $5,650

EPA MPG 24 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Toyota Corolla

$4,050 - $4,325

EPA MPG 32 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Toyota Matrix

$3,500 - $4,325

EPA MPG 28 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Toyota Prius

$3,400

EPA MPG 49 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Volkswagen Golf

$3,125 - $4,875

EPA MPG 45 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Volkswagen Jetta

$2,825 - $4,550

EPA MPG 38 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

See All Small sedans/hatchbacks Ratings

Model History

2018-

Current Generation

With its all-new platform, the fourth-generation Rio sedan and hatchback sit lower, wider, and slightly longer than before. The changes bring increased passenger space for both the front and rear seats. Cabin technology makes a step forward, with the top-level EX trim benefiting from a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system, along with voice recognition, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine essentially carries over, though it sees horsepower decrease by 8 notches in the interest of fuel economy--a notable shortcoming with the last-tested Rio. Transmissions choices remain of a six-speed manual or automatic. A reworked suspension will hopefully address the stiff feel found on the previous model. Automatic emergency braking for city/urban speed will now be available. Changes for 2020 include a new 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine matched with a CVT. The EX trim and manual transmission were discontinued for 2019. Changes for 2020 include a new 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which is now matched with a continuously variable transmission.

2012-2017

2012 Redesign Year

The 2012 redesign was a leap forward, making the Rio feel solid compared with some other subcompacts, bringing more power and space and better handling, along with a six-speed automatic transmission for better gas mileage. The typical ride, noise and space limitations -- expected from a subcompact car -- count against it. However, benefits include nimble handling, a smooth transmission, simple controls, and plenty of equipment for the price. Antilock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control are standard. Higher trim models offer unexpected amenities such as heated seats and a rear-view camera.

2006-2011

2006 Redesign Year

The 2006 redesign makes the Rio a reasonable alternative to larger compacts. The ride is relatively comfortable and quiet, which makes this iteration of the Rio pleasant to drive. Most drivers found a comfortable seating position with plenty of room, though some found the tilt-only steering wheel was positioned too close ' yes -- for comfort. Controls are simple to use. Interior storage is modest. The sedan can hold more luggage than the hatchback with the rear seats up, but both have 60/40-split seats that fold to expand cargo capacity. Still though, the hatchback offers added cargo flexibility. Fuel economy is very good and handling is secure -- though not sporty. Standard curtain airbags are a plus.

2001-2005

2001 Redesign Year

The Rio has come a long way from its cheap roots. This corporate cousin to the Hyundai Accent used to epitomize the stiff-riding, noisy subcompact sedan. For 2001, the interior is put together well, the car is easy to park, and the Rio provides a tolerable ride. Handling is secure but not very agile. Still though, some vestiges of past transgressions remain, the cabin is noisy and cramped, it's not very quick, and braking is subpar. Antilock brakes (ABS) were offered starting with the 2005 model year.

Kia Rio

2003 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2003 Small sedans/hatchbacks Ratings