2000 Kia Rio LS 1.5 petrol

Summary:

Great value for money

Faults:

The tires wore unevenly, but this was caused by an accident and has since been repaired.

Has developed some minor rattles.

CD player has trouble reading some disks.

General Comments:

Its performance is adequate for a cheap, small car and fuel economy has been amazing - better than the manufacturer claims (I have managed 5.7L per 100km on the highway and 6.9L per 100km city)!

Handling is spongy and does not inspire enthusiastic driving. Standard tires do not deliver very good grip.

Interior space is cavernous for a small car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th May, 2003

19th Dec 2003, 02:41

Just clicked over 120,000km in my Rio and have had no problems at all. Servicing is cheap and I have also been getting great economy.

2000 Kia Rio LX 1.5 twin cam

Summary:

Joy to own

Faults:

Back windscreen seal became loose.

When bee-sting ariel is closest to roof the reception of the radio is affected, can get annoying! Just play a CD.

Air-con stinks sometimes.

General Comments:

It seems a lot of you North Americans are having problems with your Rio's. Over here in Australia we are having less problems.

I have a 5 door hatch with the 1.5 Mi-tech engine. Came with lots of fruit like central locking, CD player etc.

Good easy to use dash.

I wouldn't willingly rev it over 4000, it can get quite noisy!

Copes with Australian heat well.

Good Point A to Point B transport.

Handles well in dry, bit nervous in the wet.

Has good re-sale value.

I got a good trade in on my old beast from the dealer.

Overall a joy to own, hasn't been a major problem yet.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th March, 2003

7th Jul 2004, 08:42

I have a Rio and agree that it has been a great little car, but I think you will find that resale value is extremely poor. Kia, along with other cheap Korean cars do not hold their value well at all. I also question your assertion that it handles well. While it is comfortable and competent in normal driving, it lurches and rolls like a drunken sailor when pushed hard.