2002 Kia Rio Sedan from North America - Comments

Not applicable.

Based on reviews prior to 2003, I would not have purchased a Rio. I test drove and bought a Rio on Thursday, December 26th. I was so impressed, I bought another on Saturday, December 28th.

The Rios' many positive attributes, for the most part, have been covered. My only annoyance comes from an apparently inherent Kia flaw. That is, acclimating to the requirements for a jerk-free start in first gear. I recommend using extra accelerator, at first, then paring down until coordinating your starts.

Every 2003 Rio operator/owner should heed the following little known caveat. Never turn off your engine while the wipers are engaged. This could disable the wipers. Though a mystery to me, some safety device could break and disable the wipers. This can be easily repaired by dealer, however.

Finally, there's four items I should like to enhance upon:

1. The low decibel level inside the cab allows normal speaking volume.

2. The anti-lateral sway is downright

awesome.

3. The shocks give a thumpy ride on very

rough surfaces, but the noise levels remain minimal.

4. This model is nearly Toyota tight. Closing the last open door requires a deliberate tad of gusto.

Poor guy I have a 2001 Rio right now sitting in the drive way outside the thing is trash, it needs an automatic transmission replacement... AGAIN this is the third one.. good luck.

Congratulation! You are the owner of the single 2002 Rio in the world not requiring massive repairs. Enjoy your car while you can, I'm absolutely sure it will break down on you in a while (based on personal experience). Please post back when it does.