Vehicle Segment:
Subcompact car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, small families.
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris.
Value Proposition:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, decent interior space for its class, good warranty.
Design Philosophy:
Modern styling, practical interior, emphasis on fuel economy.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train.
Engine Management:
Fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis and repair.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, diagnosis, and repair.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shock absorbers, springs, control arms.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, discs, pads, calipers, hydraulic lines, ABS.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, fuses, relays.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC system.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, troubleshooting trees.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhaul.
Replacement:
Component replacement guides for brakes, suspension, electrical parts, etc.
Adjustment:
Procedures for adjusting brakes, clutch, headlights, etc.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and step-by-step diagnostic procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Likely includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams.
Torque Specifications:
Provides critical torque specifications for engine, chassis, and component assembly.
Special Tools:
May list specialized tools required for certain procedures.
Overall Length Hatchback:
3990 mm (157.1 in)
Overall Length Sedan:
4370 mm (172.0 in)
Overall Width:
1720 mm (67.7 in)
Overall Height:
1470 mm (57.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2570 mm (101.2 in)
Cargo Volume Hatchback Rear Seats Up:
255 liters (9.0 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Hatchback Rear Seats Down:
768 liters (27.1 cu ft)
Curb Weight Approx:
1100-1200 kg (2425-2645 lbs) depending on trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:
1560-1650 kg (3439-3638 lbs)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for sedan models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esc:
Electronic Stability Control (standard on most trims)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (standard on most trims).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Standard CD/MP3 player with AM/FM radio, USB, and auxiliary input. Optional SiriusXM satellite radio.
Display Screen:
Optional 7-inch color touchscreen infotainment system with navigation available on higher trims.
Rearview Camera:
Optional rearview camera integrated with infotainment display.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity for phone calls and audio streaming.
Keyless Entry Start:
Optional keyless entry with push-button start.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified SAE 5W-20 synthetic motor oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
DEXCOOL-compatible (or specified Asian vehicle antifreeze) ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
SP-IV automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Issues:
Minor issues can include premature brake wear, occasional HVAC blower motor issues, and potential for minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan seals over time. Some owners report slight paint chipping on door edges. Check for any outstanding recalls.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation is South Korea's second-largest automobile manufacturer, known for producing a wide range of vehicles from small cars to SUVs and commercial vehicles. Established in 1944, Kia has evolved into a global automotive player with a focus on design, quality, and value.
Rio Generations:
The 2012 Kia Rio represents the third generation (UB) of the model, which debuted for the 2011 model year in Korea and 2012 in North America. This generation saw a significant redesign with a focus on European styling cues, improved efficiency, and enhanced technology.
Production Locations:
Primary assembly plants include Hwaseong, South Korea, and Gwangmyeong, South Korea. Some markets may have regional assembly.
