Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers seeking an economical and practical personal transportation vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Aveo, Nissan Versa.
Value Proposition:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, compact maneuverability, and a decent feature set for its class.
Design Philosophy:
Functional and straightforward design, emphasizing practicality and ease of use.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system basics.
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation (manual and automatic), clutch operation (manual), driveshaft/axle basic information.
Chassis:
Brake system operation, steering system operation, suspension system overview.
Electrical:
Lighting system, instrument cluster and indicators, battery and charging system basics, fuse box locations and identification.
Body And Interior:
Doors, windows, seats, climate control system, audio system, security system basics.
Routine Maintenance:
Checking and topping up fluids (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement (exterior/interior), air filter replacement advice.
Emergency Procedures:
Jumper starting, tire changing (spare tire location and jacking points), basic troubleshooting of common warning lights.
Safety Features:
Explanation of airbags, seatbelts, child restraint systems (LATCH/ISOFIX), ABS, traction control (if equipped).
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance and operation. Does not typically include in-depth diagnostic procedures, component removal/installation, or internal engine/transmission repair. Suitable for routine checks, fluid changes, and minor adjustments.
Engine Code:
G4EE (common in many markets)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1599 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 110 hp @ 6000 rpm (may vary slightly by market/tuning)
Torque:
Approximately 107 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (may vary slightly by market/tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended in North America)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 specification and viscosity grade (e.g., 75W-90).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent.
Length:
Approximately 156.1 inches (3965 mm)
Width:
Approximately 66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Height:
Approximately 59.3 inches (1505 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 98.0 inches (2490 mm)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approximately 11.4 cubic feet (0.32 cubic meters)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg) depending on transmission and trim.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger) for 2008 model year.
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for 2008 models tested in this category).
Antilock Brakes:
Standard on EX, available on LX.
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims/markets.
Airbags:
Dual front airbags standard. Side-impact airbags and full-length curtain airbags optional on EX.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters; 3-point rear seatbelts. LATCH/ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4 speakers. Higher trims may offer MP3 compatibility, auxiliary input jack, or premium sound systems.
Connectivity:
Auxiliary audio input jack standard on most models for connecting external music players.
Cruise Control:
Available on EX trim, standard on some higher-spec models.
Keyless Entry:
Available on EX trim.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific interval, typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Synthetic oil may extend intervals.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual, generally every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for iridium or platinum plugs.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 U.S. quarts (3.3 Liters) with filter change for 1.6L engine. Refer to manual for exact capacity.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Refer to manual, typically SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 for North American markets.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically Asian vehicle type pink or red coolant. Kia P/N 00232-92021 (or equivalent OAT/HOAT).
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and rotors, clutch wear (manual transmission), suspension components (bushings, ball joints) due to age and mileage, catalytic converter (can be susceptible to clogging or failure).
Potential Electrical Issues:
Can include minor electrical gremlins, power window motor failures, or occasional alternator issues with higher mileage. Refer to recalls or TSBs if available.
Engine Idling Issues:
May sometimes exhibit rough idling due to throttle body issues or sensor malfunctions (e.g., MAF sensor). Cleaning the throttle body is a common DIY fix.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automobile manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944, initially producing motorcycle parts and bicycles before entering the automotive market. Known for offering value-oriented vehicles.
Rio History:
The Kia Rio was first introduced in 2000 as a subcompact car. The second generation (JB) was launched for the 2005 model year, featuring a more modern design, improved interior quality, and enhanced powertrains. The 2008 model year represents a mid-cycle refresh or minor update for the JB generation, often including styling tweaks or feature adjustments.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in South Korea (Hwaseong plant). Some units may have been assembled in other Kia facilities globally.
Jdpower Initial Quality:
While the 2008 Rio may not have won major awards, Kia generally scored mid-pack to higher in J.D. Power Initial Quality Studies during this period, indicating improving reliability relative to some competitors.
Fuel Economy Epa:
EPA estimated MPG for 2008 Rio: Approximately 27 MPG City / 32 MPG Highway for manual transmission, 25 MPG City / 32 MPG Highway for automatic transmission (may vary slightly by specific configuration).
