2008 Kia Rio Review

The Kia Rio was introduced in 2001 as a economically-priced compact car. It was updated in 2003. The second generation debuted in 2006 with a higher quality design and more options. The Rio is now available in a sedan or five-door hatchback version, called the Rio5. The SX trim was introduced in 2007. Autobytel gave the Rio an "Editor's Choice Award for Most Improved New Car" in 2006.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Kia Rio is easily one of the most affordable cars you can buy. If you're looking for an affordable new car, this is it. The newest generation boasts a decent ride and a nice reliability record. Unfortunately, its interior trim, features and crashworthiness reflect the price. It's not bad for the price, but you might want to increase your budget or perhaps look into a nice used car with a good safety history.

What's New For 2008:

The SX and LX now feature an audio input jack. Three trims are available: Base, LX, and SX.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Kia Rio price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$10,890

Rebates & Incentives:
yes

Seats:
5

Gas Mileage:
27/32

Engine:
1.6L I4

Horsepower:
110@6000RPM

Torque:
107@4500RPM

Transmission:
5 Speed Manual

Drive:
FR/FWD

Fuel Capacity:
12

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
60/60000

Powertrain Warranty:
120/100000

Rust Warranty:
60/100000

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems with the first generation included problematic dashboard lights and faulty fuse panels. It was recalled four times. The current generation has had issues with faulty CD players and coolant leaks. No recalls have been issued. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Rio received 4.5 stars in government frontal crash tests and 3.5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it received an "Acceptable" rating for the front and "Poor" for the side and rear. Full side airbags come standard. Anti-lock brakes are optional on the LX and SX.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Affordable, decent performer
+ Strong reliability
+ Spacious

Cons
- Lacking in features
- ABS optional, not standard
- Troublesome side-crash scores

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chevrolet Aveo includes air conditioning, but costs over a thousand dollars more. The Hyundai Accent offers a larger trunk, but is otherwise very similar. The Nissan Versa Sedan has a CD player and air conditioning, but costs a couple thousand more.

What Others Are Saying:

"On a mission to redefine 'entry level' in 21st-century terms, the second- generation Rio maintains the aggressive pricing of its predecessor, but it grows up in just about every other area that matters." - Motor Trend

"Don't confuse the all-new 2006 Kia Rio with the old car of the same name." - The Auto Channel

"When you throw the Rio into that mix, the warranty is the only thing in its favor. Unfortunately for Kia, when compared to these 'inexpensive' cars, the 'low cost' Rio comes off as 'cheap.' So now you know." - The Truth About Cars

Read more about the 2008 Kia Rio at the Kia manufacturer web site.

Published on Friday, February 15, 2008 - Email to a friend

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