Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, young drivers, urban commuters
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic
Vehicle Highlights:
Affordability, Fuel Efficiency, Modern Styling, Improved Interior Space (compared to previous generation)
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical information typically reserved for dealerships, enabling DIY repairs and accurate maintenance.
Powertrain:
Engine (G4FA, G4FC), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain, Exhaust
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear Disc), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Windows/Locks, SRS Airbag System, Instrument Cluster
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Bumpers, Seals, Body Repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks/changes
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission rebuild, Brake system repair, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation, Wiring diagrams, Component testing procedures
Installation:
Component removal and installation, Accessory installation guidance
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to full engine/transmission disassembly and reassembly, including advanced electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Displacement 1:
1.6 Liters (1591 cc)
Engine Configuration 1:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16 Valves, CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing)
Engine Code 2:
G4FC (often used interchangeably or for specific markets)
Engine Displacement 2:
1.6 Liters (1591 cc)
Engine Configuration 2:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16 Valves, CVVT
Horsepower 1:
138 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 Octane (Minimum)
Type 2:
4-Speed Automatic (with Sportmatic shifter)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, Torque converter lock-up clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-85 or equivalent (check manual for specific PN)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
SP-III (ATF SP-III) or equivalent (check manual for specific PN)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4-Star (for comparable models)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
No designation for 2012 model year
ABS:
Standard (4-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Esc:
Standard (Electronic Stability Control)
TCS:
Traction Control System
Airbags:
Front Driver and Passenger, Side Curtain Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren)
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability (subscription required), USB/Auxiliary input jacks.
Display:
Central 4-speaker audio system, optional touchscreen infotainment with navigation (depending on trim level).
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking assist sensors on higher trims.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type used).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Coolant Change:
First at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.1 US quarts (3.9 Liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Viscosity:
0W-20 (Recommended for fuel economy and cold weather performance)
Coolant Type:
Asian Red Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent meeting MS-591-08 spec)
Ignition Coils:
Intermittent misfires can occur due to failing ignition coils.
Door Latches:
Sticking or failed door latches, especially in cold weather.
Evaporative Emissions System Leaks:
Can trigger Check Engine Light (CEL) due to faulty vent solenoids or purge valves.
Suspension Noise:
Rattles or clunks from suspension components like sway bar links or bushings.
Brand Origin:
South Korea
Brand Reputation Early Years:
Known for budget-friendly vehicles with basic features.
Brand Evolution:
Significant improvements in design, quality, and technology from the early 2000s onwards.
Rio Introduction Year:
2000
1St Gen Rio:
Basic subcompact, often criticized for build quality and refinement.
2Nd Gen Rio:
Improved design and quality, but still a budget offering.
3Rd Gen Rio Launch:
2011 (for the 2012 model year), marked a significant leap in styling and features.
Assembly Locations:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea; Yago, South Korea (for some variants/markets)
Auto101 Best Subcompact Car:
2012 Kia Rio named 'Best Subcompact Car for the Money' by U.S. News & World Report.
Kbb Best Deals:
Included in Kelley Blue Book's '2012 Best Deals' list.
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the model year.
