2003 Kia Rio RX-V review from North America
"More car than you'd expect for this much money!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Absolutely nothing.
General comments?
The Rio RX-V for 2003 is about as sweet as a compact hatchback/wagon/whatever they've deemed this thing can get in appearance, cost to buy, and cost to drive!
The handling is excellent - even in 6 inches of snow and on icy roads, it stays straight and goes where you want it to without sliding around.
It is peppy off the line and has plenty of power to climb the hills of the Canadian Shield.
The seats up front are very comfortable whether it's for a short drive around town or a long highway trip. I haven't spent any time in the back seats, but I have been in the back of an LS and there is JUST enough headroom for a 6-footer. The foot room behind the front seats isn't the best if the driver/front passenger have their seats all the way back, but if they're willing to slide up a little, it's not that bad.
In the RX-V, the big advantage is the room the rear hatch offers over the trunk of the sedan. And with the standard package tray cover, it keeps your cargo out of sight too.
These are a fabulous car for the money in my opinion. They aren't a BMW, but if that's what you're expecting, don't buy this car.
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  | A lot for the money |
| Great Car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 19 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 368 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Gran Torino |
| Date of Entry | 21st February, 2003 |