Segment:
Subcompact car (B-segment)
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, young drivers, small families seeking economical transportation.
Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Aveo, Nissan Versa.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on practicality, fuel efficiency, affordability, and European-influenced styling for its segment.
Value Proposition:
Offers a strong balance of features, reliability, and low running costs.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system, starting system, charging system, instrument cluster, audio system, power accessories, body control module (BCM), airbag system
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, glass and mirrors, doors, seats, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, belt inspections and replacements, spark plug replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, scan tool usage
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems, component removal and installation, torque specifications, special tool requirements
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers, covering diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of all major vehicle systems.
Engine Code:
G4EE (for most markets)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1599 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 110 PS (108 hp) @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 14.7 kg·m (106 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Emissions Compliance:
Meets relevant emissions standards for the model year and region (e.g., Euro IV).
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Dry, single plate diaphragm type (Manual)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for specific part numbers/grades)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
SP-III (or equivalent, refer to manual for specific part numbers/grades)
Length:
Approx. 3,990 mm (157.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,480 mm (58.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,500 mm (98.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1050 - 1100 kg (2315 - 2425 lbs) depending on trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard or manual for specific GVWR.
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 275 liters (9.7 cu ft) for hatchback, varies for sedan.
E-Ncap Rating:
Likely 4-star for adult occupant protection, 3-star for child occupant protection (Euro NCAP 2005 for similar generation).
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebs:
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) often paired with ABS.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Body Structure:
Reinforced body structure for improved crash energy absorption.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4 or 6 speakers. Auxiliary input jack may be present on higher trims.
User Interface:
Basic, analog and digital controls for climate and audio functions.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors were an optional feature on some models.
Bluetooth:
Not typically available on base models of this generation. May be found on very late production or specific market trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for synthetic or semi-synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for Iridium/Platinum type spark plugs. Check manual for specific type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
This engine typically uses a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free for the life of the engine. Refer to manual to confirm.
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4 or higher. Viscosity: 5W-20 or 5W-30 (depending on climate and specific engine recommendation).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 liters (3.7 US quarts) with filter change. Verify with dipstick.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a long-life pink or red formulation (e.g., Asian Red/Pink). Diluted 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific requirement).
Common Wear Items:
Wear on front suspension components (bushings, ball joints), brake pads and rotors, clutch wear (manual transmission), exhaust system corrosion.
Engine Performance:
Occasional issues with idle control valve or oxygen sensors leading to rough idle or check engine light. Timing chain tensioner wear can occur at high mileage.
Electrical Quirks:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, and intermittent interior lighting can be reported.
Kia Motors History:
Kia Motors, a South Korean manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944, initially as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts, later expanding into commercial vehicles and passenger cars. Kia is part of the Hyundai Motor Group.
Rio Generation 2:
The 2007 Kia Rio belongs to the second generation (JB), launched in 2005. This generation marked a significant improvement in design, quality, and driving dynamics compared to its predecessor.
Design Influence:
The JB generation Rio was designed with input from Kia's European design studios, giving it a more contemporary and appealing European-influenced aesthetic.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Hwaseong Plant). Some markets may have assembly from CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits.
Safety Awards:
While not a headline-grabbing award winner, the Rio generally performed competently in safety tests for its class and era, contributing to Kia's growing reputation for safety.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by model year and specific components, but generally improved through the generation. The manual will provide insights into common maintenance and repair needs.
